MDA | Race Reporting Handbook ABILITY The range of physical, cognitive, and mental capacities that individuals possess. RELIGION A set of beliefs, practices, and systems that relate to the existence of a higher power, spirituality, or moral values. ETHNICITY Shared cultural characteristics such as language, ancestry, practices, and beliefs. Race is often constructed socially using aspects of ethnicity. IDENTITY How individuals perceive and define themselves, which can include multiple aspects such as personal beliefs, experiences, and social affiliations. NATIONALITY The country to which a person belongs by birth or naturalisation. AGE The number of years a person has lived. LGBTQIA+ An inclusive term for people who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and other sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions. LANGUAGE A system of communication used by a particular community. VISA/CITIZENSHIP STATUS The legal status that determines an individual's rights and obligations within a country, including their ability to reside, work, and access services. CLASS Socio-economic status determined by a combination of factors, including income, occupation, education, and wealth. 22