The Day of Bisexuality, also known as Bi Visibility Day or Celebrate Bisexuality Day, is observed annually on September 23rd to raise awareness of bisexuality and the challenges that bisexual people face. This day highlights the contributions of bisexual individuals and aims to combat bisexual erasure, which is the tendency to ignore or downplay bisexuality in both the LGBTQ+ community and society at large. The day also promotes acceptance, inclusivity, and pride for bisexual individuals, advocating for greater recognition and understanding.
First celebrated in 1999, this day has grown to become an important event for the bisexual community, with events, discussions, and campaigns held globally to ensure bisexuality is acknowledged and respected.
History and Origin
Bi Visibility Day was established by three bisexual rights activists: Wendy Curry, Michael Page, and Gigi Raven Wilbur in the United States. They recognized the need for a specific day to celebrate bisexuality, as the community often felt marginalized and underrepresented, even within the broader LGBTQ+ movement. The first celebration occurred on September 23, 1999, chosen because it coincided with Bi Pride Week in the U.S.
The day’s primary purpose was to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about bisexuality and to give visibility to an identity that is frequently misunderstood or ignored. Over the years, the day has gained global recognition, with events taking place in many countries around the world.
Who Celebrates the Day of Bisexuality?
- Bisexual Individuals: The day serves as a celebration of identity for bisexual people, allowing them to express pride in their sexuality and challenge the stigma that often surrounds bisexuality.
- LGBTQ+ Communities: LGBTQ+ organizations and allies participate by hosting events, sharing educational resources, and raising awareness about bisexuality within the broader LGBTQ+ community.
- Advocacy and Support Groups: Organizations that focus on bisexual rights, mental health, and inclusion hold workshops, panel discussions, and social media campaigns to highlight bisexual visibility and the unique issues faced by bisexual people.
- Universities and Educational Institutions: Many universities host events that promote understanding and inclusivity, educating students and staff about bisexuality and the importance of visibility and acceptance.
- Allies and Supporters: Allies join in the celebration by supporting bisexual friends, colleagues, and family members, showing solidarity and standing against biphobia and bi-erasure.
Slogans and Themes
Bi Visibility Day often promotes themes of pride, acceptance, and visibility. Common slogans include “Be Visible, Be Proud” and “Bisexuality Exists”, which emphasize the importance of recognizing bisexuality as a valid and important identity within the LGBTQ+ spectrum.
The day’s themes revolve around fighting biphobia (discrimination against bisexual individuals) and bi-erasure, ensuring that bisexual voices are heard and respected.
Colors, Symbols, and Patterns
- Colors:
- Pink, Purple, and Blue: Representing the Bisexual Pride Flag, these colors symbolize the blending of same-sex and different-sex attractions, with pink representing attraction to the same gender, blue representing attraction to other genders, and purple symbolizing the intersection of these attractions.
- Symbols:
- Bisexual Pride Flag: The flag is a central symbol for the day, representing bisexual pride and visibility.
- Double Moon: A common bisexual symbol featuring two moons or circles overlapping, representing the fluidity and duality of bisexual attraction.
- Patterns:
- Interconnected Circles: Symbolizing the overlap of gender attraction in bisexuality, representing the complexity and inclusivity of bisexual identity.
- Rainbow Patterns: Often used to connect the bisexual pride movement with the broader LGBTQ+ community.
Most Used Hashtags
- #BiVisibilityDay
- #CelebrateBisexualityDay
- #BisexualPride
- #BiPride
- #BiVisibility
How to Celebrate
- Host or Attend a Bi Visibility Event: Many LGBTQ+ organizations and community groups hold bi-centric events such as panel discussions, workshops, and pride gatherings. These events often focus on raising awareness about bisexual issues and celebrating bisexual identities.
- Wear Bisexual Pride Colors: Show your support by wearing pink, purple, and blue, the colors of the Bisexual Pride Flag, and encourage others to do the same in solidarity.
- Share Your Story: Bisexual individuals are encouraged to share their experiences on social media using the event’s hashtags, helping to promote bisexual visibility and challenge misconceptions.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about biphobia and bi-erasure, and share resources that highlight the unique experiences of bisexual people. Support organizations that advocate for bisexual rights and mental health.
- Support Bi-Friendly Organizations: Donate or volunteer with organizations that specifically support bisexual individuals and promote bisexual awareness and mental health resources.
Importance of Day of Bisexuality
Day of Bisexuality is important because it combats bi-erasure, which is the tendency to ignore or marginalize bisexual individuals within both straight and LGBTQ+ communities. By celebrating bisexuality, the day acknowledges the unique challenges bisexual people face, including biphobia, invisibility, and stereotyping.
This day plays a crucial role in promoting mental health and well-being within the bisexual community, as bisexual individuals often experience higher rates of anxiety and depression compared to their gay, lesbian, or heterosexual peers. By raising awareness and increasing visibility, Bi Visibility Day fosters a sense of belonging and support, helping bisexual people feel validated in their identity.