I’ve worked at Manchester Met for almost two years as a Content Creator in the Digital Team. I do a lot of writing and editing for the University’s websites, as well as content design and user research. Outside of work, I’m a devourer of science fiction and fantasy books, and a keen outdoor swimmer (come join me in Salford Quays - I am not joking). 

International Bi Visibility Day is important to me. I spent a long time assuming I was straight. When my girlfriends were chatting and agreeing about their ‘girl crushes’, I never really understood why my answers weren’t received in the same way. I really could have done with some visible bisexuality when I was younger to help with the confusion! 

I’ve been with a cisgender man for nine years, and I recently married him, so it’s understandable that people assume I’m straight. I’ve always found it awkward to correct people – it feels like coming out each time – and often people are embarrassed and don’t know what to say.  Bi Visibility Day makes me feel like I’m not just being pedantic, that it’s a positive thing to let people know a key part of who I am. Plus it’s important to show being bisexual doesn’t just disappear depending on your choice of partner. 

One of the biggest challenges that I face in the workplace is the assumption that I’m straight. It puts the onus on me to correct people and I don’t always feel comfortable doing it, although I’m trying to do it more and more. It might sound minor, but it can be frustrating and isolating. Other bisexual people will have different experiences, of course. 

I think true allyship is recognising and trying to shake off the assumption that heterosexuality is the default, even for people in straight-seeming relationships. It also means listening to people if they face difficult situations, whatever their experience, and actively trying to improve things where we can. 

I’m really grateful for the support that colleagues at Manchester Met provide. In some situations, I feel like a tolerated guest, but the University’s Rainbow Network makes me feel like a welcome member; I feel part of a community. I’ve learnt a lot and met some great people.