Bisexuality
Over the years, I feel that society has normalized homosexuality, at least to a large extent; however, bisexuality remains the big issue that needs to be addressed.
One of the biggest problems is the misconception that bisexual people are not "true" or do not have a stable sexual orientation, which leads to invisibility and discrimination. Many times I've been asked "What do you like more?" , as if sexuality were a dichotomy between two parts; my sexuality is not a percentage between heterosexuality and homosexuality but a whole, an integral set, without percentages.
Often, we are accused of being indecisive, which reinforces the stereotype; the most important thing, for all those who are not sexonormative, is to take the steps when one is ready to take them. Coming out of the closet requires courage, but also resilience, psychology, self-esteem, and a support network; with all these factors, it will always be easier to take the step. If our decisions weren't questioned, socially repudiated, or stigmatized, the decision to show ourselves as we are would be much simpler.
I'm increasingly realizing that bisexual people face rejection from both heterosexual and homosexual communities, creating that feeling of isolation and misunderstanding. It's especially painful to hear it from those who have also suffered rejection, like the homosexual community.
Male bisexuality is the most stigmatized, while female bisexuality has historically gone much more unnoticed.
Bisexuality doesn't disappear over the years. I've heard people say, "She dated a girl but has been with her boyfriend for 8 years, so she's a lesbian" ; no, sexuality isn't legitimized by practice. I could spend my whole life with a man or a woman and still consider myself bisexual. I could be a nun or a priest, and I still retain my sexuality, whatever it may be, even if I live in chastity.
The studies give us devastating figures; the stigma associated with bisexuality has emotional and mental health consequences, since feeling that we must hide our identity or face prejudice can lead to anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
For all these reasons, I want to write this article to express the reality I have lived, am living, and know that many other people are also living. I want to tell them all that they are not alone and that I will continue to be the voice of those who do not dare to speak out of fear. Therefore, it is fundamental to promote education and empathy, creating safe spaces where bisexual people can express themselves without fear of judgment.
Combating the stigma of bisexuality requires awareness, respect, and support, in order to build a more inclusive and just society for all sexual orientations. Let's enjoy our sexuality without fear of judgment.