Why September 23rd Became the Global Day for Bisexual Pride and Visibility
In short: Celebrate Bisexuality Day, observed annually on September 23, emerged from a desire to combat the invisibility of bisexual people within both straight and broader LGBT communities. Conceived by three activists, the date was chosen to honor the birthday of one of its founders, Gigi Raven Wilbur, and the legacy of Freddie Mercury.
The origins of the holiday trace back to the late 1990s, when activists Wendy Curry, Michael Page, and Gigi Raven Wilbur sought to create a dedicated space for the bisexual community. During a convention, the group discussed the need for a celebration that addressed the specific marginalization they faced. They selected September to honor the birth month of Freddie Mercury, a prominent bisexual figure, and settled on the 23rd because it coincided with Wilbur's birthday and fell on a weekend, maximizing participation.
The first official observance took place in 1999 during a gathering of the International Lesbian and Gay Association in South Africa. Since then, the movement has expanded significantly. In 2012, Berkeley, California, became the first U.S. city to formally recognize the day, followed by a 2013 White House meeting with advocates—the first event of its kind hosted by the executive branch. By 2013, the UK government also acknowledged the day, with minister Jo Swinson highlighting its role in fostering awareness and diversity.
Today, the event is often referred to as Bisexuality+ Day or Bi+ Day to encompass a broader spectrum of identities, including pansexual, polysexual, and queer individuals. In 2014, BiNet USA expanded the scope by establishing Bi Awareness Week, which runs from September 16 through the 23rd. This week serves to accelerate social acceptance, combat isolation, and provide a platform for individuals to share their experiences and history. The initiative continues to gain international traction, as seen in 2022 when the city of Natal, Brazil, passed legislation to formally recognize the celebration.
The movement remains a vital response to the tendency of society to categorize people into binary labels. By creating a specific time for visibility, the community aims to challenge the prejudice that bisexual individuals often encounter. Whether through government proclamations or community-led events, the day serves as a persistent reminder of the need for inclusion and the ongoing effort to ensure that bisexual experiences are recognized and valued.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Celebrate Bisexuality Day
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