bisexual

Imagine someone who finds themselves drawn to people of more than one gender—men, women, and non-binary people alike. That's the heart of what it means to be bisexual. It is an attraction that isn't restricted to just one gender. For a long time, bisexuality was misunderstood or erased, sometimes dismissed as just a "phase" or unfairly labeled as "indecisive." But it is a valid and distinct sexual orientation in its own right.

Someone might identify as bisexual even if they are currently in a long-term relationship with one person; their orientation isn't defined by the gender of their current partner, but by the capacity of their attraction. You might also hear people use the term "bi+," an umbrella term that encompasses bisexuality and other identities that involve attraction to multiple genders.

Bisexuality is a sexual orientation characterized by an emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to more than one gender. While the prefix "bi-" suggests two, many people and communities use the term more broadly to include attraction to one's own gender as well as other genders. This includes non-binary people—people who do not identify exclusively as male or female. It is important to understand that bisexuality isn't simply being "half gay" and "half straight"; it is a unique orientation with its own history, community, and lived experiences.

Historically, the term "bisexual" emerged in the late 19th century. Over the decades, the definition evolved from a clinical description to a self-empowering identity. However, for many years, bisexual people faced "erasure"—the tendency for society to overlook them or assume they were either gay or straight based on their current partner. This led to a historical lack of visibility and specific healthcare considerations for the community.

Today, while bisexuality is increasingly recognized as a legitimate orientation, certain misconceptions persist. Some believe it is a temporary stop on the way to coming out as gay, while others rely on harmful stereotypes about its stability. Research suggests that bisexuality is a stable and enduring identity for many people who self-identify as bisexual.

Attraction is often fluid and personal. A person identifying as bisexual may experience varying degrees of attraction to different genders across their life. Some might feel a preference for one gender over another at a given time, while others feel an equal attraction across the board. Using inclusive language and respecting how a person chooses to label themselves is vital. Ultimately, bisexuality is about acknowledging the diversity of human connection and celebrating the many ways people experience love and desire.