Confronting Bisexual Erasure

Beyond Societal Stereotypes

Members of the LGBTQI+ community frequently experience minority stress and discrimination. Today, I wanted to share some thoughts specifically about bisexuality and some prevailing stereotypes which can lead to the tendency to overlook, negate or dismiss the existence and experiences of bisexual individuals.

Bisexuality is the capacity to experience emotional, romantic and/or sexual attraction to individuals of more than one gender. Bisexuality stands as a vibrant and valid expression of love and desire but is often dismissed by those operating within a rigidly binary view of sexuality.

Conceptualising Sexuality

There are many models used to try to conceptualise sexuality; of these, the Kinsey Scale is perhaps the most well-known. Helpful as that proved back in 1948, scaling sexuality as a continuum between heterosexuality and homosexuality can lead to the invidious assumption that bisexuality is somehow unreal or simply ‘a phase’ which will pass.

The stigma experience by bisexuals, often even within the LGBTQI+ community, is particularly chilling because of this attempt to completely erase their lived experience.

Navigating society’s binary view of sexuality can be a daily occurrence: bisexuals are often assumed to be straight, gay or lesbian solely on the basis of the gender of the partner they happen to be with. The psychological distress of having one’s identity and agency constantly challenged should not be underestimated.

Challenging Biphobia and Bisexual Erasure

Being a better ally to bisexual individuals involves understanding their experiences and actively supporting their rights and visibility. I want to end with a few practical examples of how we can be better allies to our bisexual friends:

Binary Assumptions

Being aware of one’s own internalised assumptions about sexuality is key to our capacity to embracing the rich tapestry of human sexuality and to affirming the nuances of the bisexual experience.

Take time to learn about bisexuality and to reflect on your own stereotypes around sexuality. Create a supportive environment by actively listening to bisexual individuals without judgement. Bisexuality is diverse and can be manifested in various ways.

Binary assumptions manifest at both societal and interpersonal levels, and it is important we confront and challenge these when they arise to avoid contributing to the feelings of invisibility, isolation and invalidity within the bisexual community.

Inclusive and Affirmative Language

The importance of affirmative language applies both at the level of conversation and also in written communications.

Be conscious about using inclusive and affirmative language that acknowledges the spectrum of attractions human beings are capable of feeling. Affirming the bisexual experience and communicating solidarity is vital to empowering the bisexual community.

Media Representation

Bisexual erasure is perpetuated through the limited and often inaccurate portrayal of bisexuality in mainstream media. We can all critically engage with media messages: take time to challenge biphobic remarks or jokes when you encounter them.

We can also identify bisexual role models to celebrate, thereby affirming the bisexual experience. Show your support through actions that promote awareness and acceptance. Consider attending events or supporting organizations specifically catering to bisexual individuals, or buy yourself a bisexual flag pin.