April 1, 2022

Resisting erasure: how Bi’Cause is fighting for bi+ visibility

Image Person
Aida Marukian and Soudeh Rad

In the vibrant landscape of LGBTQIA+ communities, Bi’Cause stands out as a pioneering organisation dedicated to supporting and advocating for bi, pan, “+” individuals and other non-monosexual identities. With over two decades of history, Bi’Cause has been instrumental in increasing visibility, challenging biphobia and panphobia, and fostering an inclusive space for the bi+ community in France and beyond.

The birth of a life-long resistance

Established in 1995 following a biphobic event, Bi'Cause emerged from a small group within the Gay and Lesbian Center of Paris. Recognizing the need for a distinct bi+ presence, the organization became independent, focusing on enhancing visibility and advocating for inclusion within LGBTQIA+ communities and broader society.

Initially established to define bisexual identity, Bi'Cause has grown into a national organization that provides support for individuals who are frequently marginalized. Over time, its focus broadened to encompass pansexuality and other fluid sexualities, adopting a more inclusive "bi-pan galaxy" framework. This evolution mirrors the wider LGBTQIA+ movement's increasing recognition of the varied experiences within the bi+ spectrum.

A mission of visibility, support and advocacy

At its heart, Bi’Cause is about receiving and accepting. It offers a place where bi+ individuals can meet, share experiences, and find a sense of belonging. But it’s also about being active and doing: working to break down stereotypes, challenge discrimination, and push for real change. Through sensitisation, activism and community events, Bi’Cause is driving real change forward.

Monthly gatherings, workshops, and advocacy campaigns keep the organization at the heart of the bi+ movement, creating spaces where people can be themselves without compromise or apology, nor having to justify who they are or their feeling of being marginalized.

Growing, evolving and building bridges

Bi’Cause has always adapted to meet the evolving needs of bi+ communities. In its early years, the focus was on establishing and affirming bisexual identity. Over time, the organisation expanded to include pansexuality and other fluid identities, reflecting the broader and more refined understanding of attractions today.

Internally, Bi’Cause is also evolving. Moving away from traditional hierarchical functioning, the association now embraces a more collective governance model, ensuring that elaboration is inclusive and participatory. This shift mirrors its commitment to increasing and true representation of the communities.

Collaboration is another key pillar. Bi’Cause actively works with local LGBTQIA+ groups, activist collectives, and researchers to strengthen the bi+ movement and guarantee lasting change. Whether it’s organising Bi+ Visibility Day events, contributing to academic studies, or producing groundbreaking reports on biphobia and panphobia, the organisation is growing its audience in France and beyond.

Looking ahead: the future of Bi’Cause

The road ahead is both exciting and challenging. Bi’Cause continues to advocate and push for increased recognition of bi+ identities, both within the LGBTQIA+ movement and in broader society. Ensuring a long-term associative viability, sustainability, and deepening engagement in the community remain top priorities.

Success, for Bi’Cause, isn’t just about numbers: it’s about impact. It’s about every single bi+ person feeling less alone, every stereotype getting unpacked, denounced and dismantled, every space becoming a little more welcoming. The fight for visibility and equality is far from over, but with every event, every conversation and exchange, and every act of solidarity, Bi’Cause is helping to build a future where bi+ people are celebrated and valued, not sidelined.

For anyone looking to connect, contribute or simply learn more, Bi’Cause is a place where every voice matters. 

If you’re curious to learn more, connect with them, or support their work, here’s how you can reach them:

Website: https://bicause.fr/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bicause_asso/