The season introduces Wade 'Unique' Adams, the show's first transgender character (born male, identifying and performing as a woman), whose arc centers on gender presentation, performance as Unique, and encouragement from Kurt and Mercedes in episodes like 'Saturday Night Glee-ver' and 'Nationals.' This representation serves as a focal point rather than incidental diversity. The episode 'I Kissed a Girl' dedicates significant runtime to Santana Lopez's coming-out as a lesbian, including club support via 'lady music' performances, her grandmother disowning her, and themes of homophobia and acceptance. Ongoing arcs for Kurt and Blaine advance their physical relationship, while Rachel's two dads and Sue Sylvester's congressional campaign incorporate identity-based political attacks.