Much of the LGBTQ+ community is bisexual and yet in our heteronormative society, we continue to pigeonhole bisexual people as gay or straight or whatever best fits our narrative. Bi-erasure is a pressing issue that is often overlooked as people view bisexuality as “less “ of a sexuality and more of a lifestyle, an indecisiveness, or a “one time thing”.
Many people also seem to view bi-erasure or biphobia as less common or important when compared to other sexuality/gender identity-based discrimination. A culmination of these factors can lead to many bisexual individuals facing minority stress which can have disastrous effects including higher rates of depression among bisexual adults when compared to heterosexual adults.
We need to stop using phrases like “everyone is a bit bisexual after 11 o’clock” or claiming that bisexuality is just kissing your girlfriend while on a night out. Bisexuality is sexuality within itself that is not an extension of gay or straight identities. Bisexual people are not indecisive or greedy, they are truly just people - People who deserve respect, appreciation and love.
Written by Isa Edwards Buesa
Artwork by Zara Masood
