Introduction
The landscape of the LGBTQ community is vast and multifaceted, reflecting a greater understanding and acceptance of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. One particular orientation that often faces misconceptions is bisexuality. Contrary to popular belief, bisexuality is not limited to attraction between only two genders. This article aims to clarify these misconceptions and foster a more inclusive understanding of bisexuality within the LGBTQ spectrum.
The Myth of Bisexuality as a Binary Orientation
Some argue that since ‘B’ in LGBTQ stands for bisexual, it must therefore mean that bisexuality can only encompass attraction to two genders: men and women. This view is simplistic and limiting.
A Closer Look at Bisexuality
The Bisexual Manifesto from the 1990s publication ‘Anything That Moves’ defines bisexuality as a ‘whole fluid identity’ that should not be presumed to be binary or even-gendered. It emphasizes that bisexuality does not require simultaneous attraction to both genders. Instead, it focuses on the fluidity and complexity of attraction.
David Katz, one of the contributors to the manifesto, wrote:
‘Do not assume that bisexuality is binary or duogamous in nature: that we have ‘two’ sides or that we must be involved simultaneously with both genders to be fulfilled human beings. In fact, don’t assume that there are only two genders.’
These words highlight the depth and diversity within the experience of bisexuality. It challenges the rigid binary framework and promotes a more nuanced understanding of attraction.
The Full Spectrum of Sexual Orientation
It is crucial to recognize that sexual orientation is a spectrum, much like the LGBTQ community as a whole. Sexual orientation can vary from totally heterosexual to totally homosexual, with various points in between. The term ‘bisexual’ is often seen as an umbrella term, encompassing those who are attracted to more than one gender. However, this does not imply that all bisexual individuals are attracted to both men and women.
For example, the author of this piece is attracted to women, trans women, men, trans men, non-binary gender-queer individuals, and all adult humans of any possible gender. This attraction is multifaceted and dynamic, reflecting the true nature of bisexuality.
Identity and Rights in the LGBTQ Community
Beyond mere attraction, bisexuality is also about identity and rights. In the context of the LGBTQ community, labels like ‘lesbian,’ ‘gay,’ and ‘bisexual’ are not just chosen for convenience but hold significant social and political implications.
‘L’ for lesbian, ‘G’ for gay, and ‘B’ for bisexual all refer to sexual orientation, not gender. Lesbians are women who are sexually attracted to other women. Gays are men who are sexually attracted to other men. Bisexuals, as the term suggests, are attracted to both men and women. However, these labels are not entirely fixed. Sexual orientations can vary along a spectrum from totally homosexual to totally heterosexual, with many points in between.
Most importantly, these labels reflect the diversity and complexity of human experiences. For instance, some bisexual individuals might feel more strongly attracted to one gender than the other, or they might have ‘types’ that they are attracted to. This fluidity is essential to recognizing bisexuality as a legitimate and valid sexual orientation.
It is also important to acknowledge that being bisexual does not imply someone is a gateway to a third gender. The attraction is to individuals, not a fixed gender binary. It’s about the fluidity of attraction and the recognition of diverse identities.
The LGBTQ community must continue to advocate for the rights and dignity of all individuals, including those who identify as bisexual. Trans men and trans women are not faking it, nor are they doing it for attention or to gain entry into the wrong bathroom. These are real experiences rooted in identity and biology, often involving intersex genetics or a disconnect between physical and perceived gender.
Every person, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation, deserves the same rights and respect. It is the responsibility of society to ensure that this is the norm, not the exception.
Conclusion
Bisexuality, like other aspects of the LGBTQ spectrum, is a complex and dynamic experience that cannot be confined to a binary framework. It involves fluidity, identity, and the recognition of diverse sexual orientations. By promoting a more inclusive understanding of bisexuality, we can contribute to a more compassionate and equitable society for all.