Let’s discuss bisexual erasure. Have you experienced it? How has it affected you?
I’ve experienced erasure, I prefer feminine energy regardless of gender, as such I’ve had my sexuality dismissed by ‘friends’ and colleagues with statements like “that’s just straight and horny” or the other end of the spectrum: “you’re gay but clinging to social pressures”
I’m in a hetero-presenting relationship which just fuels the presumption of heterosexuality. I’ve been celebrated for being an ally and immediately dismissed when I suggested that I’m not an ally but a member. Makes seeing myself as a member… difficult.
There’s a tension in some LGBTQ communities- lesbian communities in particular (gold star).
I’m interested in your feelings/experiences with erasure.
I’ve had some similar experiences. My partner and I are straight presenting though my partner is trans, so I guess that is temporary. I’ve been told that I am straight because I have sex with women, but also told I am gay because I have sex with men. Honestly it is just bigotry pure and simple, but it can get inside your head and mess you up.
At this point in time trans people are the target of the day, but once they are dealt with the bigots will come for the bisexuals, then for the gays and lesbians. The only way to protect all of us is to band together and protect our most vulnerable members.
That seems common - especially when it comes to gay men saying you’re just gay and hiding it. Which is just extra gross to me from a group who should know better.
I’ve known a few who changed that tune over time, but it still seems such a common (and completely wrong) assumption from many gay men.