Bi 101: What is Bisexuality? What is Pansexuality?
Happy Bi Visibility Month! As we end the month of September we would like to dispel the myths surrounding the definition of the ‘B’ in the LGBTQ+ alphabet community and try to clear the confusion between bi and pan sexualities, what better time to do this than #BiVisibilityMonth.
π Bisexuality
Bisexuality has a rich history, dating back to 1798 when it meant “possessing characters of both sexes.” Today, it means being attracted to more than one gender, not just male and female. It’s an inclusive spectrum that embraces diverse gender identities. To encompass this inclusion bisexuality can also be referred to as the Bi+ which falls in the multisexual spectrum (m-spec). The Bi+ umbrella term includes; pansexual(attraction to all genders with a political emphasis on trans and non-binary gender identities), polysexual (attraction to multiple sexes), and omnisexual(attraction to all sexes). Everyone’s journey with bisexuality is unique, and definitions vary. Bi+ is an all-inclusive fluid sexual identity that should not be looked at with a limited lens.
π© Bisexual Pride Flag
Designed by LGBTQ+ activist Michael Page in 1998, this flag is a beautiful blend of magenta (same-sex attraction), blue (attraction to different genders), and lavender (attraction across the gender spectrum). It’s a symbol of unity and visibility for the bisexual community.
π Pansexuality
Pansexuality means being attracted to all genders or not letting gender dictate attraction. It’s like being “gender-blind.” Pansexual people connect with others based on personality, whether they’re male, female, non-binary, or any other gender. Remember, it doesn’t mean they’re attracted to everyone!
π© Pansexual Pride Flag
This flag, with blue (attraction to men), pink (attraction to women), and yellow (attraction to non-binary individuals), symbolizes pansexuality’s all-encompassing nature. It emerged online in 2010 and celebrates love without gender boundaries.
π€ What’s the Difference?
Bisexuality and pansexuality share common ground as both involve attraction to multiple genders. However, the key distinction is that pansexuality includes attraction to all genders, while bisexuality encompasses attraction to more than one gender, which can vary from person to person(preferences may vary). Both identities are equally valid and beautiful!
Celebrate diversity, break down harmful stereotypes, and embrace love in all its forms!
#LoveIsLove #BiVisibility #PanPride
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