Ever wondered about the difference between being bisexual and pansexual? Bisexual people are attracted to more than one gender, while pansexual folks are attracted to people regardless of gender. Being bi or bisexual used to be thought of as an attraction to both women and men, but that definition left some nonbinary and gender-diverse people out, so we updated it! Now we consider bisexuality as attraction to more than one gender. Pansexuals experience attraction beyond gender. People who are pan focus on the person they connect with and aren’t constrained by gender. It’s not that they don’t see gender; it just means that’s not a deal breaker for them. I think of pan people as having won the jackpot – they have the most options! Both groups celebrate how diverse attraction can be. It's important to remember that while labels can help us understand each other, they shouldn't be where we put our focus. Instead of getting too caught up in labels, focus on deeper understanding and showing that we're there to support and uplift one another. In today's world, where there's a lot of misinformation and challenges to LGBTQ+ rights, it's important to continue visible allyship. Jump onboard, declare that you are glad for a world that includes Queer people. It is important to maintain visibility because they are trying to silence diversity. So instead of staying quiet consider taking the opportunity to say you are proud and happy to support Queer rights - and all diversity for that matter. We need to see those rainbows! Remember, you are part of a global community that supports Queer inclusion, safety, and empowerment which is amazing. Keep being you; No matter the label, you’re beautiful. Mischa Oak pansexual pride flagbisexual pride flag
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Ever wondered what's with all the buzz about where trans and gender-diverse folks do their business? You're not alone. Turns out, the drama over washroom use is less about reality and more about fear-mongering.
For decades, some conservative groups have played the fear card to rally support. By tapping into fears, they hope to score votes. But this tactic isn't new; it's a rehash of past discrimination tactics against minorities, like preventing Black and Indigenous folks from sharing washrooms with white people, or keeping gay men out of certain facilities. Trans people simply want to use the facilities in peace and move on with their day. Transgender women, in particular, face a double fear: violence or harassment in men's washrooms, which some politicians are trying to push them towards, and the fear of being outed (or even arrested in many places!) in women's facilities. With these proposed laws in place, where can transgender people go for a safe and dignified bathroom break? Rather than targeting trans individuals as a source of fear, let's focus on real safety concerns. Stats show that women face far greater risks from cisgender men in washrooms than they do from trans people. Instead of fear-mongering, why not invest in making public spaces safer for everyone? Who doesn’t want good lighting, good locks, privacy options and high visibility of entrances into public spaces? Those things make sense -- scapegoating doesn’t. Countries like Iceland lead the way by embracing inclusivity and creating welcoming washrooms and changerooms for everyone, including gender-diverse people. Their approach is proven to foster social harmony and reduce crime. Check out my recent Instagram video about the topic while working in Iceland here. So, let's prioritize safety, dignity, and inclusivity over fear. After all, the real issue isn't about who uses which washroom—it's about making them safe and dignified for everyone. There’s a lot of negative talk out there these days, including misinformation from those who try to divide us based on our differences. But it doesn’t have to be that way!
During many of my speaking gigs – keynotes and corporate training – I get asked the question, so how does all this LGBTQ+ inclusion make a difference in my life? Here’s the secret that 2SLGBTQ+ people have known since we first came out: When we have the courage to be ourselves in one aspect of our lives, we gain the strength to be bolder in other aspects of our lives! This is why 2SLGBTQ+ folks are some of the most successful people you know! We aren’t afraid to make better, braver or more creative choices instead of always falling back on the ‘right’ choice. Try it! By letting go of outdated social norms that no longer serve you, you begin to see the world as opportunity instead of how it always has been. What this means for you – whether you are 2SLGBTQ+, straight or cisgender – is that your work creating a community of allies matters. By creating a community that is safe, welcoming and most importantly, empowering for 2SLGBTQ+ people, you are creating a world where EVERYONE is free to be themselves regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. When we are all free to be ourselves, we can focus on making the world better instead of replicating the same ol’, same old. Think of the time you made the biggest impact in your life…were you trying to be someone else or were you bravely being you? Check out my Instagram reel on this topic — Why on Earth would anyone want to live in an LGBTQ+ city?! Are some of these terms new for you, or are you seeking clarity on what the letters in the 2SLGBTQIA+ acronym mean? Check out my complimentary LGBTQ+ Glossary of Terms. |
MischA
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