Celebrating Bi Visibility Day 2025: The Importance of Recognition and Inclusion

Introduction

Bisexual visibility Day was first celebrated 26 years ago in 1999 to address the unique challenges of bisexual and biromantic erasure as well as raise awareness about the community. This day is not just a symbolic gesture; it's a call to action to ensure that bisexual voices are heard, stories are shared, and progress continues towards genuine inclusion and belonging.

What does the data say?

Recent studies highlight the distinct experiences of bisexual individuals:

Only about one-third (36%) of cisgender bisexual employees are out to their supervisors, compared to three-quarters (75%) of cisgender gay men and lesbians.
Within the LGBTQ+ community, 27% of bi women have experienced bi-phobic harassment from their LGBTQ+ peers.
Bisexual+ characters account for only 24% of all LGBTQ+ representation.
Bisexual people are more prone to mental health issues than their gay and lesbian counterparts.
Only 20% of bi people report being out to their loved ones, compared to 63% of gay and lesbian people.

The Power of Allyship

Our forthcoming research, "For All: The Power of Allyship and Belonging," has revealed that:

93% of bisexual respondents reported improvements in feelings of inclusion and belonging when experiencing a culture of allyship.
95% of bisexual respondents reported improvements in productivity and performance when experiencing a culture of allyship.
Nearly 8 in 10 bisexual respondents believed that visible and vocal allyship from senior leaders is crucial in cultivating a culture of inclusion and belonging at work.

Our report launches on the 21^st of October. Click here to attend our launch event and find out more about the power of allyship and belonging.

Visibility Matters

Visibility days like Bi Visibility Day are vital in shining a spotlight on the distinctive hurdles faced by bisexual people. These include lower rates of being out to colleagues and loved ones, disproportionate mental health concerns, and experiences of exclusion—even within LGBTQ+ spaces. Visibility provides bi people with an opportunity to see themselves reflected and celebrated, countering the erasure that too often marks their experience.

Creating Inclusive Workplaces

To make workplaces genuinely inclusive for the bi community, it's essential to address inclusive practices focused on bisexuality:

Awareness: Employers should prioritise education and training initiatives centred around specific issues that bisexual people face, such as biphobia and bi-erasure. Investing in training sessions can help dismantle stereotypes and promote allyship.
Role Models: Promoting bisexual voices in leadership roles and decision-making is crucial. Spotlighting bisexual leaders can foster belonging, create safer spaces, and challenge stigma.
Resources: Providing bisexual employees with resources supporting their growth and well-being is essential. Such resources can include access to inclusive employee assistance programs, networking events with other bisexual employees and allies, as well as mentorship opportunities.

Conclusion

Bi Visibility Day holds immense significance, especially when we consider the data about bisexual people's experiences in the workplace and beyond. By fostering awareness, promoting role models, and providing resources, we can create genuinely inclusive workplaces where bisexual talent not only feels safe and seen but thrives.

Our CEO Matt Cameron was on BBC Radio Surrey to discuss the importance of Bi-Visibility Day. To listen to his interview on this topic, click here.