International Bisexuality Day

International Bisexuality Day, also widely known as Bi Visibility Day, is observed annually on September 23rd to celebrate bisexual identity and raise awareness of the unique issues and challenges facing the bisexual community, both within and outside broader LGBTQ+ spaces. The observance was first established in 1999 by bisexual activists Wendy Curry, Michael Page, and Gigi Raven Wilbur, who recognized a need for dedicated visibility specifically for bisexual people, who research has consistently shown often experience a phenomenon sometimes called "bisexual erasure," in which their sexual orientation is dismissed, questioned, or overlooked both within heterosexual society and, at times, within LGBTQ+ communities themselves. Studies have found that bisexual individuals often report experiencing greater mental health disparities and social isolation compared to both heterosexual and gay or lesbian populations, frequently attributed to this lack of recognition and belonging in either predominantly heterosexual or predominantly gay and lesbian spaces, along with persistent stereotypes and misconceptions about bisexuality itself. The day aims to counter these patterns by promoting accurate education about bisexuality, amplifying bisexual voices and experiences, and fostering greater inclusion and understanding within both broader society and LGBTQ+ community spaces specifically. International Bisexuality Day has grown into a significant global observance, marked by educational events, social media campaigns using visibility-focused hashtags, community gatherings, and advocacy efforts aimed at improving mental health resources and social recognition for bisexual individuals worldwide.