This coming Saturday is Bi Visibility Day! Bi Visibility Day has been around since 1999 (wow!) and is here to recognise and celebrate bisexual people, the bisexual community and bisexual history.
A person might consider themselves bisexual if they are emotionally, physically, sexually or romantically attracted to more than one gender. Bisexuality has also been considered an umbrella term for other sexualities, like pansexual or omnisexual. You may also see the term Bi+, which reflects the fact that bisexuality encompasses attraction to multiple genders. Bisexuality does not necessarily mean equal attraction to all genders, and some may experience what is sometimes known as the ‘bi-cycle’, where their attraction to a specific gender may wax and wane.
Biphobia, bi-erasure and bi-invisibility are still prevalent in society and media, and are associated with poor mental health for bisexual people. This is why days like this are so important to celebrate all things bisexual!
Let’s bust some myths about bisexuality:
Bisexuality is just a phase or a ‘transition’ between straight or gay sexual orientations.
A lot of bisexual individuals may question their identity because of societal assumptions like this. Your sexual identity may change throughout your lifetime, but bisexuality is its own sexuality and should be viewed as such!
Bisexual people are confused and need to ‘pick a side’.
This suggests that bisexuality is not real and promotes the idea that there is a ‘right’ sexual orientation. Bisexuality is unique for every individual and there’s no wrong answer to sexuality.
Bisexuals are straight/gay because of their relationship.
This can cause distress as bi individuals often have to justify themselves to others. It can also contribute to the prejudices and discrimination against bi people. Bisexuality doesn’t go away when you enter a relationship.
Bisexual people are more promiscuous.
Sexual orientation alone doesn’t determine the way that you view and act in relationships. Beliefs like this can lead to increased objectification and stigma, and increased sexual harassment.
Bisexual people in straight relationships aren’t LGBTQIA+.
Bisexual people often feel left out of the community because of this assumption. Sexuality is part of your identity and lived experience. There is more to your sexuality than who you decide to date, and the challenges of bisexual individuals are unique even in the LGBTQIA+ community.
How can I be supportive?
If someone tells you that they’re bi, don’t question their understanding of themselves. Instead, validate their experience as unique and special to them. Be there to listen and, if safe, educate and speak up against biphobia to those around you. If you want to know more, have a read of our article A quick guide to understanding bisexuality or go to Bi+ Australia.
Where can I find support if I’m bisexual?
Our forums are a safe space to explore your journey with your sexuality and to talk to other community members! Additionally, QLife offers anonymous and free peer support and referral services via phone or webchat.
We’ve placed some old archived posts on bisexuality on this thread for you to explore this topic in more depth.
Being a part of the bisexual community
Now let's go and celebrate the awesomeness which is being bisexual! 😊
