U.S. Surgeon GeneralVerified account

sexual preference? I expected more from the SG.

I agree Amy. Twitter didn’t allow for the exhaustive list I wanted, so I stuck with a short list that people can see & often discriminate by (eg sex, race, and who we choose to publicly be with). You are right- orientation is different & often preferred term, though less visible.

To be clear for all, preference implies a choice of expression, while orientation suggests something that is inherent. For many people, their expressed “preference” doesn’t match their inherent orientation- but even using orientation this way could misinterpreted/ stigmatizing.

The safest /best thing to do is 1) be willing to talk to people in the first place and then 2)ask what terms & pronouns THEY prefer. While there are definitely some clear “wrongs” there are no always clear/ consistent “rights.” Must also be careful not to discourage engagement.