Navigating LGBT Community Prejudices: Personal Experiences and Understanding

Every journey through the LGBTQ community carries its unique challenges, and for many, one of the most annoying aspects comes from the pansexuality label. Over the years, I have experienced countless misunderstandings and a peculiar form of discrimination that significantly impacts one's sense of belonging. This article shares my personal experience and insights into how the community can better understand and embrace the sexual preference umbrella.

The Confusion with Bisexuality

A few years ago, my nephew introduced me to the term pansexuality during a conversation about sexual preferences. The term hit a chord with me because, for decades, people had assumed I was bisexual or simply chose not to pick a side.

“Nephew: So what do you classify as sexually
Me: I’m Tony, how do you do
Nephew: Ahh what now
Me: Sorry that’s just what I always say because nobody ever seems to understand what I’m saying when I try to explain.”

It was a profound moment for me because my nephew was the first person to fully understand the essence of pansexuality. He explained that for someone to be pansexual, the person does not differentiate between gender; the individual is interested in the person, not their physical attributes.

The response from most people, however, was often met with confusion or, in some cases, angered frustration. Here is a typical example:

“Person 1: So you’re bisexual
Me: Nope. Do I have to explain sigh
Person 1: Sure. Go for it.
Me: I don’t care if you’re a man or a woman in the same way I don’t care if you’re white, black, blonde, red-head, short, tall, whatever. I’m with the person inside the meat-suit not the meat-suit itself.”

At this point, the person would typically respond with:

“Soooo bisexual right
Me: Nope. Do I have to explain more long sigh”

And unfortunately, not only did this indifference or ignorance exacerbate my frustration, but it also alienated me from the community. For years, I would give my moniker 'Tony' as a polite dodge, tired of the blank stares and the insulting suggestions that I was simply being difficult, stupid, or even straight.

Generational Shifts and Understanding

It's easier to understand these prejudices through a generational lens. People born in the 80s and before often struggled with the extensive spectrum of sexuality, and the term pansexual was simply too novel for some to grasp. This exposes a broader issue; the LGBTQ community, by no means monolithic, can still face its share of challenges in coming to terms with its diverse makeup.

“Nephew: That’s pansexual. It means you don’t care what they are. Thank goodness for the younger generation. Where were you guys thirty years ago. That makes sense you being a pan.
Me: Why’s that”

The younger generation, with its exposure to more homosexuality, bisexuality, and non-binary identities, is more open and understanding. The years before me were a time of uncertainty, and the era before that was even harder to navigate, which is why I haven't rejoined the LGBTQ community regularly.

A Call for Empathy and Understanding

It's important for all communities to have open discussions and work towards mutual understanding. Here are a few recommendations:

Education: Encourage and participate in educational initiatives that aim to demystify different identities within the LGBTQ spectrum. Patient Communication: Have open, patient, and non-judgmental conversations with members of the LGBTQ community to help them understand and embrace their own identities. Advocacy: Advocate for policies and practices that support inclusivity and acceptance within and outside the community.

As an LGBT person, my journey is not unique, and my experiences can serve as a reminder and a call to action. Let's support each other and move towards a society where everyone feels welcome, regardless of their sexual preference or gender identity.

Conclusion

LGBTQ individuals are as diverse as the experiences they bring to the community. While pansexuality might seem simpler to understand, it often comes with its fair share of misconceptions. But with understanding and empathy, we can build a world where everyone's identity is respected, and everyone feels free to be who they truly are.