Celebrate Bisexuality Day

Celebrate Bisexuality Day is celebrated annually on September 23. In 2026, this date falls on a Wednesday. It unites the bisexual community, their friends, and their supporters to raise awareness and promote understanding of bisexuality.

History of Celebrate Bisexuality Day

Celebrate Bisexuality Day was first observed in 1999 at the International Lesbian and Gay Association Conference in Johannesburg, South Africa. It was created by three bisexual rights activists: Wendy Curry of Maine, Michael Page of Florida, and Gigi Raven Wilbur of Texas. The day was conceived as a response to the prejudice and marginalization faced by bisexual people within both straight and greater LGBT communities. The founders chose September 23 because it fell on a weekend and was close to the birthday of bisexual icon Freddie Mercury.

In 2012, Berkeley, California became the first U.S. city to officially proclaim September 23 as Bisexual Pride and Bi Visibility Day. The following year, the White House hosted a closed-door meeting with nearly 30 bisexual advocates, the first bi-specific event ever held there. In 2021, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf became the first U.S. governor to issue a statement recognizing Bisexual Pride Day. The celebration has since grown to include a surrounding Bisexual+ Awareness Week, which begins on September 16 and culminates on the 23rd.

Why is Celebrate Bisexuality Day important?

Celebrate Bisexuality Day addresses the unique challenges faced by bisexual individuals, including biphobia and bisexual erasure. Bisexual people often experience invisibility and discrimination from both heterosexual and homosexual communities, and this day works to counteract that by increasing visibility and fostering understanding. It provides a platform for the bisexual community to share their stories and experiences, helping to break down stereotypes and misconceptions.

This day also serves as a reminder of the rich history and contributions of bisexual people to the broader LGBTQ+ movement. By celebrating bisexual identity, the day promotes acceptance and inclusion. It encourages allies to learn about bisexual issues and support the community. The observance builds solidarity among bisexual individuals and creates opportunities for connection and empowerment.

• Raises awareness of bisexuality and bisexual issues in society
• Combats biphobia and bisexual erasure by promoting visibility
• Celebrates the diversity and resilience of the bisexual community
• Provides a platform for bisexual voices and experiences
• Encourages allyship and education about bisexual identities

How to Observe Celebrate Bisexuality Day

There are many ways to mark Celebrate Bisexuality Day, from attending local events to hosting your own gathering. Many communities organize teach-ins, poetry readings, concerts, festivals, parties, and picnics. You can also join online events or participate in social media campaigns using hashtags like #BiVisibilityDay. It’s a perfect opportunity to learn more about bisexual history, culture, and current issues.

For personal celebration, consider reading books by bisexual authors, watching films that feature bisexual characters, or having conversations with friends and family about bisexuality. If you are bisexual, you might choose to come out or share your story with others. Allies can show support by attending events, donating to bisexual organizations, and actively challenging biphobia when they encounter it.

• Attend a local Bi Visibility Day event or organize one in your community
• Educate yourself about bisexual history and the bisexual community
• Share resources and information on social media to raise awareness
• Support bisexual-owned businesses or donate to bisexual advocacy groups
• Reach out to bisexual friends or family members to show your support

Celebrate Bisexuality Day Dates