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.

For example, two married women might spend time in community spaces dominated by lesbians. Perhaps one of the women is bisexual and objects to the assumption that she is a lesbian (i.e., when others call the two women a “lesbian couple”). However, every time she mentions this, others insist that she can’t really be bisexual or that her orientation doesn’t matter (perhaps with the subtext that she shouldn’t talk about it) now that she is partnered.


Source: Bisexual Resource Center

Bisexual erasure plays a critical role in reducing access to the resources and support opportunities bisexually oriented people so desperately need.

Talking about bisexuals can help save lives

Thankfully, the bisexual community has displayed a high level of resiliency and, despite many challenges, has worked to create awareness of important public policy priorities for bi people. Whether it be speaking with President Obama about the bisexual community, launching bisexuality-related social media campaigns, or advocating for fair treatment in the media, the bisexual community’s hard work towards equality should be recognized and supported.

Every day is a day you can support people who identify as bisexual, pansexual, fluid, queer, non-monosexual, no labels, pomosexual, bi-romantic, pan-romantic, polysexual, multisexual or any of the several dozen “labels” the bisexual community celebrates and supports as equally valid and equally brave.

If you are interested in learning more about bi history, identity, culture, politics, and community, please contact one of the three U.S. based bisexual non-profit community organizations to be connected to trainers affiliated with the Bisexual Resource Center, Bisexual Organizing Project, and/or BiNet USA.