Comments | delta_mai: Tolerance is a two way street.

delta_mai

Tolerance is a two way street.

Oct 06, 2011 11:16

So this is a Tumblr cross post. The original post was in response to reactions to someone talking about how bisexuality doesn't exist. It soon escalated into accusations (maybe unfounded, maybe not) of biphobia and hatred. This is my reply.

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Thinking something does not exist does NOT equal hate or biphobia. I am a great advocate for people ( Read more... )

lgbt, discussion post, homosexuality, pansexuality

Comments 31

bluemage55 October 6 2011, 23:06:56 UTC

If someone were to say that "Gays don't exist", you wouldn't interpret that as a form of homophobia? How about "Jews don't exist"? Telling someone that their identity doesn't exist is another way to say that they're liars.

I'd suggest you read up on bisexual erasure. Denying the identity of bisexuals is part of the history of prejudice against them.

delta_mai October 6 2011, 23:42:32 UTC

No, because it might not be routed in fear. Which doesn't make it any less horrible and hurtful, btw.

I know it's prejudice!!!! I can't help but think that a lot of you didn't actually read what I wrote. Because I said, several times I think, that I in no way condone this opinion. And I know it's hurtful and I know it's part of this awful culture against bisexuals! I AM PANSEXUAL OK, I get it!

I'm just saying that it's an opinion, and that we shouldn't attack people who hold it. We should educate them because obviously this opinion is wrong.

jegus fuck

bluemage55 October 6 2011, 23:51:54 UTC

I understand that you don't condone it, but it seems that you differ from a lot of us in how we should tolerate prejudicial opinions. The notion that some people are inferior and less than human because of their race is also an opinion, but I think most people would agree that attacking that opinion is acceptable.

I do agree that we should try to educate people and change their opinions, but sometimes, attacking and ridiculing ignorance can be an effective way of curing it. Letting people know that an opinion they have is bigoted and ignorant might be interpreted as a personal attack, but it's neceessary.

delta_mai October 7 2011, 00:00:02 UTC

Aaah, I'm saying don't attack the PERSON, verbally or otherwise. The opinion - sure, go ahead, tear it apart. I hate the idea that bisexuality doesn't exist. For one thing, that opinion is actively hurting a dear friend of mine right now. I'm just saying that regardless, it's an opinion, and we shouldn't immediately assume things about the person saying it ( ... )