You’re right, there’s no single thing that gives you your identity. It’s such a complex thing. But people always want to pigeon-hole people into “she’s a vegetarian” or “she’s a feminist”, etc. (In your case, anyway.)

Identity… what a BIG and complex word. What a wonderful topic, especially for sociologists

Let me start with saying that being “gay” or “straight” is not enough, as you rightly point out, to define one’s identity. This is just the sexual orientation and we all know that things are more complex than just this dichotomy. There are nuances… thanks God.

So who am I?
There’s more than one thing which defines who I am. It’s hard to pick just one but I like paying attention to the ways in which other people (friends, colleagues) attempt to define my identity. Family is not included because they grasp (hopefully) the full complex picture, plus they are biased.

Yesterday someone was making fun of me and was saying: “she is not only a vegetarian woman but also a feminist!”. I don’t know if I am a “feminist” as such although I have pretty strong beliefs and I am a strong woman…. does this make me a feminist? Don’t know… Vegetarianism is part of my way of life. It goes beyond what I eat and don’t eat. Does this define my identity? Yes, indeed. I am much more than a “vegetarian woman” but compassionate eating and living IS a big, important part of me.

to be continued…