‘Gay,’ ‘Femme,’ ‘Nonbinary’: How Identity Shaped the Lives of These 10 New Yorkers

THE WORDS WE USE to identify ourselves can give insight into our values, our personality, our appearance, our profession and our passions.

But identity is complex, and is becoming even more so as the vernacular of L.G.B.T.Q. identity continues to evolve.

Last month, as people from all over the world came to New York City to celebrate WorldPride, The New York Times asked readers to, in ten words or less, tell us who they are.

We had submissions ranging from a 34-year-old Disney-obsessed, transgender woman to a 63-year-old Nuyorican AIDS activist who is H.I.V. positive. Many respondents listed multiple, intersecting identities, and some discussed seeking acceptance and community and finding it right here in New York City.

As these unique descriptions poured in, we were reminded that we are all humans with a story to tell.

Here are 10 of those stories... (continues)