Bisexual erasure is a phenomenon that occurs when individuals who identify as bisexual are ignored or denied by society, including academic researchers and activists. This erasure can manifest itself in various ways, such as the assumption that bisexuals do not exist or the belief that their experiences are less valid than those of heterosexual or homosexual people. In this essay, I will explore how bisexual erasure functions as a form of epistemic violence in both academia and activism, focusing specifically on the impact it has on marginalized communities. By doing so, I hope to raise awareness about this issue and encourage greater inclusivity in these fields.
In Academia:
In academia, bisexual erasure often takes the form of dismissing bisexuality as a legitimate sexual orientation or ignoring its unique challenges and needs.
Some researchers have argued that bisexuality is simply a transitional stage between heterosexuality and homosexuality, rather than a distinct identity in its own right. Others have suggested that bisexuality does not merit attention because it is too small a population to be worth studying. These arguments perpetuate the idea that bisexuals do not exist or that they are somehow inferior to other identities.
This erasure has significant consequences for bisexual individuals in academia. It means that their experiences may go unrecognized or understudied, leaving them feeling isolated and alone. It also prevents scholars from developing a nuanced understanding of sexuality and intimacy, which limits our ability to address important social issues like discrimination and health disparities.
It reinforces the dominant narrative that only certain types of sexuality are worthy of study, which can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and stigmas.
In Activism:
Bisexual erasure is also common in activist circles, where it can take the form of assuming that all LGBTQ+ people are either straight or gay. This assumption fails to acknowledge the diversity within the community and can exclude bisexual individuals from support networks and advocacy efforts. It can also lead to biphobic attitudes and behaviors, such as assuming that bisexuals are more likely to cheat on partners or engage in promiscuous behavior.
This erasure can limit the visibility of bisexual people and contribute to their marginalization. When bisexuality is ignored or denied, it becomes harder for bisexual individuals to find resources, support, and representation. It can also make it difficult for them to feel accepted or valued by society at large.
Bisexual erasure is a pervasive problem in both academia and activism that harms bisexual individuals and limits our understanding of sexuality and identity. By acknowledging and addressing this issue, we can create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of the LGBTQ+ community. We must work to recognize bisexual identities and experiences, including those that fall outside of traditional definitions of sex and intimacy. Only then can we truly create a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported.
How does bisexual erasure function as a form of epistemic violence in both academia and activism?
Bisexual erasure functions as a form of epistemic violence that has deep roots within society's normative understanding of sexuality and identity. It is often perpetuated through the marginalization, invalidation, and dismissal of bisexual experiences and perspectives in both academic and activist spaces.