Bisexual people have always been here! The words we’ve used have changed over the years but the experiences have been remarkably unchanged, ever since monosexism and heteronormativity were ingrained in patriarchy. Our history is just as important, and just as diverse (if not more so) as the rest of queer history – its all entwined and yet bisexuality and bi people’s contributions are often erased or appropriated from both the broader narrative and our own efforts.
The UK’s bi groups are almost all small and grassroots level; we aren’t required to document our story in the same way as charities or incorporated non-profits (unlike in America/some other countries, which have many more bi-specific legal entities). One archive we do have though, has been built, archived and curated by Mel Reeve (@BiHistory instagram / blog).
When Mel ran out of space a few years ago (in her home), the Bishopsgate Institute took it on, which is handily in London and available for all to visit alongside the rest of their gigantic archive of queer and kink history.
So come peruse Mel’s archive at its London home, and discover some of the fascinating history of bi and queer people. Its late for LGBT History Month, but is in proximity to our reshare of Vaneet’s book launch event at Queer Britain (queer history museum) on 9th – and do you know many bisexuals who’re always on time 😋?
No glass cases, no white gloves required; banners, books, magazines, signs, flyers, posters, photos and more from a less-accepting time that show how much has changed, how much has stayed the same, and how bi & queer people got to where we are now.
We’re also bringing and donating some of our own items recording our bi history from the last 15+ years of the group! Have anything yourself to donate? Old bi badges,protest material, flyers?
Further travel/accessibility details are at the event’s page on Meetup. We’ll be in the rear library. Ask staff if you need assistance (event was booked with Stef).
Any donations to help cover our running costs or towards Bishopsgate Institute are welcome.
