Asexuality
The A in LGBTQIA+ is for Asexual, sometimes referred to as “ace spectrum”. This is because asexuality exists on a spectrum, and has multiple identity labels associated with it. When can categorise attraction as romantic attraction, sexual attraction, and Platonic attraction. Asexual people tend to not experience sexual attraction, and if they do, it is in a limited or complex way. Similarly, aromantic people tend not to experience romantic attraction, and if they do, it is in a limited or complex way. You can be asexual and feel romantic attraction, and vice versa.
When I realised I am asexual, I stopped feeling broken. As a society, we often put sex on a pedestal, and the idea that someone doesn’t want to have sex can be viewed with stigma. It’s not uncommon for doctors and medical professionals to put asexual people through unnecessary tests to determine the cause of their asexuality.
Below, I have shared some of my own videos on my life as an asexual person. Asexuality does not fit one specific mould. We are all different, and we all experience attraction in different ways. For further information about the asexuality (ace) spectrum, including information on different ace identity labels, check out the resources at the bottom of the page.
The Asexual Spectrum
Asexuality exists on a spectrum, and has received the catchy name “ace spectrum” or “ace spec” for short. This video talks about the basics of asexuality, what it means, and some of the identities that exist within that spectrum.
Asexuality Tag!
Tag videos are a fun way to share information about yourself, or a topic you care about. In this tag video, I share insights into my experience as an asexual person, what asexuality means to me, and my thoughts on existing in the world as an ace person.
What Are Those Flags In The Background?
This video talks about the different pride flags that I own, including the ace flag! Pride flags play an important part in visibility and recognition within the community. There’s a certain camaraderie between two people wearing a subtle ace flag when out and about. Not that there’s anything subtle about a wall of pride flags.
Do Aces Belong In The Queer Community?
Yes. This is a debate that I don’t think needs to be had. We are literally the A in LGBTQIA+. There are members of the ace community that identify as straight as well as asexual, and they also belong in the queer community if they want to be there. Ace erasure is bad, and wildly prevalent in so-called inclusive spaces.
Useful Websites
The Asexuality Visibility and Education Network
The Asexuality Visibility and Education Network (AVEN) seeks to grow and support the asexual community, and to educate the wider public about the ace spectrum and ace people. It is packed full of resources of all kinds.
Asexual Outreach
The Asexual Outreach group has created a networking and community hub for asexual folks to find and meet other asexual folks. They keep accessibility at the forefront of their work, which as a disabled person, I appreciate. They also run campaigns for ace week each year.
I Am Asexual
An autobiography of Amanda Sparrow Large, an asexual activist and icon, hosted by The Rainbow Project. Amanda talks candidly about her life as an asexual person, her coming out journey, and how it feels trying to keep up with what society expects from you.
Max Fisher RSci 