Sexual orientation is more than just binary genders and categories. It's a diverse spectrum that encompasses many variations and identities. There are no clear boundaries to what counts as "gay," "straight," or "bi." We can't ignore people who don't fit into those boxes. Here are some examples:
Asexuality involves experiencing little to no sexual attraction towards others. Someone may feel romantic attraction but not physical desire. They might be heteroromantic, homoromantic, biromantic, panromantic, demiromantic, or aroace. Asexuals often have partnerships based on emotional connection, shared interests, friendship, or companionship rather than sex.
Genderqueer individuals identify outside of traditional gender binaries like male/female. They may present themselves as neither masculine nor feminine, both, or somewhere in between. Some genderqueer people also identify as nonbinary, agender, bigender, or pangender.
Demi-romantics experience partial romantic feelings for someone. They may still love their partner deeply without it being an all-encompassing infatuation. Demi-romance doesn't necessarily lead to any less commitment, dedication, or loyalty.
Pansexuality refers to being attracted to multiple genders and/or sex characteristics. Pansexuals find beauty in all kinds of people regardless of their biological makeup. Pansexuals may also use they/them pronouns since they don't identify with male/female labels.
Polyamory is loving more than one person at the same time. It's an open relationship where everyone involved consents and communicates about boundaries. Polyamorous relationships can range from casual dating to lifelong marriages and everything in between.
Aromanticism means experiencing little to no romantic attraction towards others. Romantic attraction isn't always necessary for forming deep bonds or connections. Plenty of romantically-inclined aromantics enjoy platonic friendships just as much as anyone else.
Sexual orientation is fluid, multifaceted, and dynamic. We shouldn't box people into rigid categories based on what we perceive them to be. There's room for diversity within sexual identities beyond binary boxes. Let's celebrate those differences instead of erasing them.