HRC Celebrates Bi+ Visibility Day 2021 – HRC – Human Rights Campaign

This is an annual tradition to recognize members of the bi+ community, which can include bisexual, pansexual, queer and fluid people, and provides an opportunity to lift up our stories and accomplishments.

A bisexual+ person is someone who can be attracted to more than one gender, and studies such as the General Social Survey show that as much as half of the lesbian, gay and bisexual population identify as bisexual. In other words, bisexual+ — or bi+ — people comprise the largest single group in the LGBTQ+ community. HRC is working with other advocates to increase bi+ visibility and address the unique needs of the bisexual+ community.

Coming out is different for every person. For bi+ people, coming out can present some unique challenges. As bi+ people, we face skepticism and stereotypes about our sexuality, we are ignored and excluded from LGBTQ+ spaces, and we are often invisible to each other – challenges that can make coming out a complicated process. Coming out can also be wonderful. It can relieve the stress of having to hide part of yourself, and it gives you the ability to bring your whole self to your life and your relationships. It can also give you the chance to be a role model to others and help you connect with the bi+ community and others who support and celebrate your identity.

While bi+ awareness continues to grow, it is vital that we all remain aware of the issues our community is facing. Compared with other groups in the LGBTQ+ community, bi+ people face striking rates of poor health outcomes, ranging from cancer and obesity to sexually transmitted infections and mental health issues. Coming out as bi+ to your doctor can be overwhelming, but a great opportunity to discuss topics physical and mental questions you might have. Additionally, bisexual+ youth face a unique set of challenges that affect their ability to flourish in their families, schools, and communities.