“I call myself bisexual because I acknowledge that I have in myself the potential to be attracted – romantically and/or sexually – to people of more than one gender, not necessarily at the same time, not necessarily in the same way, and not necessarily to the same degree.”
Robyn Ochs, Writer & Activist
As a cis-gender bisexual woman, my bisexual/queer identity is deeply personal to me, as well as something about which I feel very pressed to be public, particularly as we approach the 2020 election, with LGBTQ rights in the balance. In my 33 years, I have experienced anti-bi attitudes from both the straight and gay/lesbian communities, and find that, due to the assumptions of others, I am often reduced in their eyes to “mono-sexuality,” based on the gender of my partner (spoiler: I remain bisexual regardless of the gender of my partner). Prior to starting Hedge Witch Botanicals, I often grappled with issues surrounding my safety and comfort if I were to come out to co-workers, and so it was important to me to be an openly queer business owner, to create a safe and inclusive space both for customers and myself. I hope that if by being “out” and “visible” I am able to make one more soul feel not just accepted, but celebrated and powerful, then I am working true magic.
Want to support the LGBTQ+ folks in your life? First, do NOT vote for tr*mp! (This should be obvious, but seriously, it is an act of violence against us all.) Next up, educate yourself (don’t ask your queer friends/family to do it for you) about issues facing the LGBTQ community, and amplify queer voices (don’t just insert your own). Finally, if you are able to, donate to organizations like Human Rights Campaign, the Trevor Project, and GLAAD.
And always remember, love is love!
