FLINTA is a German acronym that many inclusive groups use. It stands for women, lesbians, intersex, non binary, trans, and agender people. In some places you may also see an asterisk at the end to signal that related identities are welcome too. The point of the term is to name people who are affected by sexism and gender based discrimination, and to create spaces where they can feel safe, seen, and centered.

People use FLINTA to describe events, collectives, makerspaces, and housing where the focus is on those communities. It is common in Germany and Austria, but you might see it anywhere people are working on gender inclusive practices. In daily life this can look like workshops, coworking sessions, or volunteer projects where participation is open to FLINTA people. Sometimes cis men are not included for certain activities, not to exclude for exclusion’s sake, but to give others a rare space to learn, rest, and collaborate without social pressure.

The letters cover a spectrum. Women can include both cis and trans women. Lesbians are named because lesbian communities have their own history and needs. Intersex people are included because they face distinct barriers in health care and society. Non binary and agender people are included to make clear that you do not need to identify as a man or a woman to belong. Trans is included to welcome people whose gender does not match the sex they were assigned at birth.

FLINTA is not a perfect word and not everyone uses it. Language changes and communities evolve. Still, many groups find it helpful because it is short, clear, and practical. If a space says it is FLINTA centered, you can expect care with pronouns, respect for different bodies and experiences, and a shared goal of reducing harm so people can try new things and thrive.