Fenway Health is proud to celebrate Bisexual+ Visibility Day. This annual observance, also known as Bi Visibility Day or Celebrate Bisexuality Day, raises awareness, challenges misconceptions, and honors the experiences of individuals who identify as bisexual, pansexual, fluid, or other non-monosexual orientations.
Established in 1999 by three bisexual rights activists — Wendy Curry, Michael Page, and Gigi Raven Wilbur — Bisexual+ Visibility Day was created to combat biphobia and increase recognition of the bisexual community. The date, September 23, was chosen to commemorate the birthday of Freddie Mercury, the iconic lead singer of Queen, who was bisexual.
The Importance of Visibility and Support
Bisexual+ individuals often face unique challenges, including erasure and invisibility within both heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ communities. Consequently, there are greater stereotypes, misconceptions, and stigma about bisexuality to contend with. These greater rates of minority stress likely fuel the disparities in health outcomes among bisexual people as compared with other LGBTQIA+ people. These include higher rates of depression and anxiety and chronic health conditions. Bisexual women also experience higher rates of substance use than other sexual minorities.
By increasing visibility and fostering understanding, we can create a more inclusive society where bisexual+ individuals feel seen, validated, and supported. At Fenway Health, we recognize the specific needs of the bisexual+ community and are committed to providing comprehensive, inclusive care that is culturally responsive to the health needs of bisexual people. We intentionally recruit bisexual people to participate in our research, ensuring that their experiences are represented in scientific studies. We also include the unique needs of bisexual+ people in our professional development and training to increase knowledge and understanding of these needs among clinicians working in healthcare settings around the country. 5. Advocacy and Education:
How to Celebrate and Show Support
This Bisexual+ Visibility Day, we encourage everyone to:
- Attend local events or virtual celebrations
- Share personal stories or amplify bisexual+ voices on social media
- Display the bisexual pride flag (pink, purple, and blue)
- Support bisexual+ artists, authors, and creators
Whether you identify as bisexual+, are questioning your sexuality, or consider yourself an ally, Bisexual+ Visibility Day is an opportunity to come together, learn, and show support for the bisexual+ community. We invite you to join us in celebrating this day and in our ongoing efforts to provide inclusive, affirming care to all members of the LGBTQ+ community.