Now is the perfect time to talk about a subject the LGBT community often ignores: bi erasure. In such a binary (gay vs. straight) society it can be difficult to recognize anything more fluid, but the fact is, so many of us fit somewhere on a spectrum, and we have to start truly representing that.
Before we can stop bi erasure, we must first know what it is. According to GLAAD:
"Bisexual erasure or bisexual invisibility is a pervasive problem in which the existence or legitimacy of bisexuality (either in general or in regard to an individual) is questioned or denied outright."
Now, let's talk about five ways we can all be better for the bisexual community.
Stop saying bisexual means 'secretly gay'
Trust that when someone tells you they are bi, they are, until (if ever) they tell you differently. It can be difficult to understand a sexuality that is not your own. However, it's not fair to ignore an entire part of someone just because you have a difficult time understanding it.
Realize that one relationship with someone does not eliminate someone's bi status
If a bisexual woman is dating man, that does not make her straight. And if a bi man is dating a man, that does not make them gay. That's a beautiful thing about being bi, you can date either men or women and still be bi.
Stop assuming bi people are promiscuous
First of all, there's nothing wrong with adults having multiple sex partners, but that's a whole other slut-shaming conversation. The fact is, you can be bisexual and a prude, promiscuous, asexual, polyamorous, monogamous etc. All bisexual means is that you are capable of being attracted to two—or more—genders. Nothing more, nothing less.
Remember that bisexual does not mean polyamorous
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It's often assumed that bisexual people need to see at least two people at once (a man and a woman) to be totally "satisfied." This is a huge misconception, and is hurtful to perpetuate, especially with the stereotype that bisexual people are more likely to cheat. False.
Promote bisexual visibility
Talk about prominent bisexual figures on social media. Learn about bi celebs, read work from bisexual writers, and most of all, get to know people who identify as bisexual in real life.
