Bisexuality Day History

Bi Visibility Day focuses on acknowledging and celebrating bisexual individuals and the broader bisexual+ community. This observance aims to increase understanding of bisexuality and address the unique challenges bisexual people may face, such as bi-erasure and stigma. It provides a platform to highlight the diversity within the bisexual community and affirm their presence and contributions.

The history of Bi Visibility Day traces back to 1999 when three American activists founded it as 'International Celebrate Bisexuality Day.' The name 'Bi Visibility Day' gained prominence in the UK and subsequently spread globally. This day is recognized in over 30 countries, including Canada, emphasizing the existence and experiences of bisexual people. Events in Canada related to Bi Visibility Day have included the annual Bi+ Arts Festival in Toronto, featuring workshops and arts programming, and social gatherings aimed at fostering community connection.

Bi Visibility Day is observed annually on September 23rd. In Canada, observances often include educational events, panel discussions, film screenings, and social gatherings designed to foster community and raise awareness. Organizations and individuals mark the day to celebrate bisexual identities, promote inclusivity, and advocate for greater understanding and acceptance of bisexual people within society.

Top 10 Facts for 2026 Bisexuality Day in Canada

• The 2026 observance serves as the 28th annual celebration of this global event, marking 27 years since the first occurrence in 1999.
• The date is officially recognized as an opportunity to challenge 'bi erasure'—the tendency to overlook or dismiss bisexual identities in both heterosexual and wider LGBTQ+ spaces.
• Bisexual individuals and those under the “bi+” umbrella, including pansexual, polysexual, and omnisexual people, make up the largest single group within the LGBTQ+ population.
• The term 'bi' is used intentionally instead of 'bisexuality' to be inclusive of all people who experience attraction to more than one gender, including those who are biromantic but not bisexual.
• The observance was originally established by three activists—Wendy Curry, Michael Page (who also created the bisexual pride flag), and Gigi Raven Wilbur—at the International Lesbian and Gay Association Conference in Johannesburg, South Africa.
• The date of September 23 was selected partly to honor the birthday of the iconic bisexual musician Freddie Mercury.
• In Canada, the day is frequently observed by 2SLGBTQI+ organizations and workplaces through educational initiatives aimed at reducing biphobia and fostering inclusive environments.
• Research highlights that bisexual individuals often face unique mental and physical health challenges, including higher rates of anxiety and depression, which are frequently linked to the stress of invisibility and social stigma.
• Canadian experts emphasize that identifying as bi is a valid, distinct orientation and that the community has its own rich, specific history of activism and organization that is often missing from mainstream records.
• Activists and researchers in Canada use the occasion to advocate for more data collection and workplace policies that specifically address the needs of bi+ individuals rather than grouping them under broad umbrella acronyms.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Bisexuality Day

Top things to do in Canada for Bisexuality Day

• Participate in online events held by LGBTQ+ groups, such as watch parties, virtual panel discussions, or live Q&As with bisexual activists and public figures.
• Educate yourself about bisexual history, culture, and issues by attending relevant seminars, workshops, or by participating in online webinars and discussions.