biphobia

The response to Andrew Gillum is exactly why so many bisexuals still struggle with coming out

Numerous studies have found that bisexuals feel more pressure to conceal their identities than gay and lesbian people because of the negative responses they often receive for coming out. Sadly, one only needs to look as far as Andrew Gillum to see why those fears are justified.

Related: Study finds ‘double discrimination’ and loneliness disproportionately affect bisexuals

The former Florida Democratic gubernatorial candidate came out as bisexual in an interview with Tamron Hall this week. It was Gillum’s first time speaking publicly since checking into rehab after being found by police in a Miami hotel room with a male escort who appeared to have OD’ed on crystal meth.

Related: Andrew Gillum comes out as bisexual

While many have applauded him for owning up to his mistakes, taking control of his health, and speaking his truth, many others, including some from the LGBTQ community, have decided instead to continue kicking him while he’s down by lodging vicious personal attacks against him and his family.

The attacks have been brutal…

Attacks lodged against Gillum’s wife have been equally as mean…

In an op-ed published by LGBTQ Nation, James Duke Mason writes:

It’s important to note that Gillum (unlike for instance Aaron Schock who consistently voted against LGBTQ rights while he was a closeted member of Congress) has always been a staunch and vocal supporter of marriage equality and the LGBTQ community.

In the interview, you could see how much the couple loves each other, how much they are on the same page, and ready to move forward in their lives with honesty, poise, and grace.

David J. Johns over at The Grio adds:

Let’s celebrate Andrew and R. Jai Gillum for finding the freedom to define themselves and their relationship on their terms and for making space for others to do the same. Let’s celebrate the culture shift that holds space for Black LGBTQ/SGL people to thrive—as we are—without having to shrink or hide critically important parts of themselves.

White supremacy wins when Black people are not able to show up in the fullness of who we are. As so many of us are actively engaged in disrupting White supremacy and anti-Blackness, let’s all commit to protecting and giving grace to one another.

Related: A Heartbreaking Look At Why So Many Bisexual Men Remain Closeted

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