The acronym 'LGBTQIA' is derived from the initial letters of the words 'lesbian,' 'gay,' 'bisexual,' 'transgender,' 'queer/questioning,' 'intersex,' and 'asexual/allies.'

The term evolved from 'LGBT,' which was used in the late 20th century, to include more identities, becoming 'LGBTQIA' in the early 21st century.

Initially, it referred to 'lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender' individuals, but it has expanded to include a broader spectrum of identities.