It is well-established that bisexual people face significant discrimination, prejudice, and marginalization within society. This includes their representation in the news, entertainment industry, social media platforms, academic scholarship, and everyday conversation. While there are some notable exceptions, it has become increasingly common for bi+ individuals to be either excluded entirely or stereotypically portrayed as "greedy" or promiscuous.
What many may not realize is the emotional impact this cultural erasure can have.
The first reason for this is that it denies bisexuals visibility and validation in their own community. When they do not see themselves represented positively, they may feel isolated, alone, or ashamed. It also reinforces negative stereotypes about bisexuals which can lead to further stigma and oppression.
If someone believes bisexuality is immoral or sinful due to its association with sexual promiscuity, then it becomes more likely that individuals will experience bigotry or violence directed towards them. Moreover, without positive role models and stories, young people may struggle with identity formation and self-acceptance leading to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or eating disorders.
Another effect of this erasure is the difficulty it creates for forming relationships. Bisexual individuals may find it difficult to find partners who understand their experiences because of the lack of cultural awareness and education on the topic. They may also face rejection from potential partners who fear being labeled bisexual themselves or becoming socially ostracized for dating a bi person. These situations create a vicious cycle where bisexuals are less likely to come out and seek support networks, creating an environment of secrecy and isolation. This can cause severe psychological distress resulting in higher rates of suicide attempts among LGBTQ+ youth.
Persistent cultural erasure can impede progress towards acceptance by heterosexual society. Bi+ narratives provide an opportunity for cisgender and straight audiences to learn about bisexuality through relatable characters and realistic scenarios. Without these resources, there is less chance for empathy and understanding to develop between communities which could eventually lead to increased prejudice and discrimination against bisexual individuals. The erasure of bisexual narratives reinforces the idea that they do not belong in mainstream culture, perpetuating stigma instead of counteracting it.
What emotional toll results from persistent cultural erasure of bisexual narratives in media and academia?
The cultural erasure of bisexuality has significant emotional effects on those who identify as such. This exclusion can lead to feelings of isolation, confusion, and shame. Bisexual individuals may feel that their experiences are not validated or understood by society, which can be emotionally taxing.