[Content Warning: This article contains references to emotional and sexual abuse, which may be triggering to some readers. Reader discretion is advised.] In a historic moment for both global asexual advocacy and Bangladeshi queer representation, Dipa Mahbuba Yasmin, the founder of the Asian Network of A-Spec Queer Activists (ANOAQA), took the stage at the Sydney WorldPride 2023. Her powerful presence marked a turning point for global asexuality awareness and impassioned advocacy. During her compelling address, Yasmin courageously spoke about the immense challenges confronted by asexual individuals in Asia, passionately advocating for an end to conversion therapy, hate crimes, and discriminatory practices. Yasmin, radiating gratitude, remarked, “Such a privilege indeed and I am extremely grateful to have been part of a historic event.” She proudly shared that 2023 marked the first time a Bangladeshi speaker had graced the WorldPride stage. The joint booth, shared by Epiphania Visuals and ANOAQA, not only brought visibility to asexuality but also showcased Bangladeshi representation at this monumental event. Yasmin’s keynote was woven with stories of the challenges faced by those coming out as asexual, particularly within the broader LGBTQ+ community where misunderstandings and marginalization can occur due to society’s hyper-sexualization. Her talk delved into a range of pressing issues: One of the central themes of Yasmin’s talk was the experiences of coming out as asexual and the lack of acceptance within the broader LGBTQ+ community. This discussion touched on a range of pressing issues: The Struggle against Hyper-Sexualization: The asexual community’s struggle against hyper-sexualization within the LGBTQ+ movement is an ongoing challenge that requires the active support and understanding of all members of the community. By promoting education, inclusive representation, intersectional awareness, and collaboration, we can work together to create a more inclusive and diverse movement where all voices are heard and respected, regardless of their sexual orientation. The Plague of Conversion Therapy and Abuse: Conversion therapy, a deeply harmful and discredited practice, is a severe concern for asexual individuals. Yasmin’s advocacy focuses on raising awareness to stop this abusive and medically unsupported practice. According to the ANOAQA survey, it has been observed that 1 out of every 3 individuals identifying as asexual has reported instances of being subjected to “conversion therapy.” During these experiences, derogatory terms like “frigid” or “impotent” are sometimes used to describe them. Additionally, some individuals have been compelled to undergo “sex therapy,” being treated as mental health patients with conditions like OCD or psychosexual disorders. Navigating Violence and Harassment: Yasmin shed light on the numerous forms of violence faced by asexual individuals, from intimate partner violence to physical threats and harassment. Several ANOAQA surveys indicate that a significant portion of aggression directed towards asexual individuals originates from their own circle of friends. This is particularly evident when friends engage in discussions about sexual jokes, explicit content, or adult films, and an asexual person expresses discomfort or disagreement with such conversations. Such incidents are not confined to social settings alone; they also occur within workplace environments. Numerous adolescent boys find themselves subjected to derogatory treatment due to their lack of sexual attraction towards any gender. Sadly, instances of such sex-related stigmatization are prevalent. Among asexual individuals, men often experience heightened apprehension about revealing their asexuality, as they fear the potential backlash of being labeled as impotent or incapable. The study additionally revealed that the primary source of violence against asexual women stems from their intimate partners and family members. Within the context of marriage, a significant amount of mistreatment and cruelty is reported, often originating from the extended family. Legal and Religious Discrimination: Yasmin highlighted the issues of legal discrimination, religious persecution, forced marriages (especially prevalent in South Asia), and the barriers to divorce, particularly among Muslim communities. She point out, the concept of forced marriages is still prevalent in many Asian countries, disproportionately affecting girls in low-income families. These young women may be forced into marriages, where they may not be able to express their asexuality or have their identities respected. Another distressing issue is the legal status of marital rape in many Asian countries. Marital rape remains legalized in some regions, denying asexual individuals the right to refuse sexual activity within their marriages, leading to a significant violation of their autonomy and bodily integrity. Furthermore, divorce laws in certain Muslim countries can lead to increased spousal violence. When divorce is stigmatized or difficult to obtain, individuals, particularly women, may feel trapped in marriages, leading to situations where they are more likely to experience violence from their spouses. This lack of legal protection exacerbates the challenges faced by asexual individuals seeking to escape harmful relationships. Microaggressions and Discrimination: Microaggressions and other forms of discriminatory behavior are often faced by minority communities, further highlighting the need for education and awareness. Yasmin’s work, not just as an activist but also as an artist, was showcased through her gallery, Epiphania Visuals, the world’s first A-Spec Queer Art Gallery. This exhibit provided a platform to introduce asexual diversity through her artwork, a critical step in making asexual identities visible and understood. Yasmin expressed her gratitude for being a part of this historic event, which not only marked a milestone for her personal journey but also for the entire asexual and Bangladeshi communities. She used this platform to share her research and survey on Asexual Hate Crime in Bangladesh, amplifying the need for change and awareness on a global scale. Yasmin’s activism is currently dedicated to raising awareness and advocating against conversion therapy. During her appearance on the WorldPride stage, she spoke passionately about her research and survey on Asexual Hate Crime in Bangladesh, shedding light on a deeply distressing issue and urging the world to take action. As we reflect on this significant moment in LGBTQI+ history, it is essential to recognize the dedication, resilience, and unwavering spirit of advocates like Dipa Mahbuba Yasmin. Her presence at WorldPride 2023 serves as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and accepting world, where the experiences of asexual, aromantic, and agender individuals are acknowledged,
In a world where romantic relationships are often seen as the norm and sexual attraction is presumed to be a fundamental aspect of those bonds, asexual individuals bring forth a refreshing and thought-provoking perspective. The exploration of asexual-identified persons in relationships sheds light on the rich tapestry of human connections and challenges preconceived notions about what constitutes a successful and fulfilling partnership. A recent study published in Frontiers in Psychology delves into the intricate dynamics of asexual relationships, emphasizing that these relationships are built on the same foundations as any other. The Landscape of Asexuality: Asexual individuals, comprising about 1% of the population, identify as having a sexual orientation that involves a lack of sexual attraction. Despite the diversity within this group, asexuality is often misunderstood and stigmatized due to its deviation from the conventional understanding of relationships. The lack of sexual attraction does not equate to a lack of desire for companionship or romantic intimacy. One prevalent misconception is that all asexual individuals are aromantic, implying they are uninterested in romantic relationships. However, this overlooks the nuanced experiences that asexual individuals navigate within relationships. Dismantling Assumptions: The groundbreaking study, conducted by examining 485 individuals who self-identified on the asexual spectrum and were engaged in romantic relationships, challenges these stereotypes. Notably, participants were given the freedom to self-identify with any label along the asexual spectrum, as well as any other relevant sexual or romantic labels. This inclusive approach acknowledges the diversity within the asexual community and affirms that relationships come in a myriad of forms. Navigating Relationships on the Asexual Spectrum: The study employed a phenomenological approach, inviting 35 asexual spectrum-identified participants to engage in semi-structured interviews. These conversations delved deep into their self-perceptions and the intricacies of their relationships. Guided by queer theory, the research sought to capture experiences beyond heteronormativity and embrace the uniqueness of asexual relationships. The study identified several themes that shed light on the dynamics of asexual relationships: A Phenomenological Exploration: This study offers invaluable insights into how asexual individuals navigate the intricate landscapes of romantic relationships. The research design was rooted in queer theory, a framework that champions inclusivity and the deconstruction of heteronormative ideals. The study conducted semi-structured interviews with 35 asexual spectrum-identified participants, aiming to comprehend their self-perceptions within the context of their relationships. The findings of this research highlighted several key themes: (a) Evolving Asexual Identity Development: Asexuality is a unique journey for each individual. Participants shared stories of how their understanding of their asexual identity evolved over time, shaping their outlook on relationships. The study emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and validating these diverse journeys within the asexual community. (b) Conscious Adapting and Communication within Relationships: The research illuminated the significance of open and honest communication between partners in asexual relationships. Participants reported that their relationships often deviated from societal norms, requiring conscious adaptation and a willingness to engage in meaningful discussions. Partners who understood and respected the asexual individual’s perspective displayed a higher likelihood of relationship success. (c) Reconsidering Amatonormativity: Amatonormativity refers to the societal assumption that romantic relationships are the ultimate goal and fulfillment for all individuals. Asexual individuals often face challenges due to the dominance of this narrative. The study brought to light the importance of questioning and challenging amatonormative beliefs, advocating for diverse relationship structures and priorities. (d) Therapeutic Recommendations: The study’s findings offer therapeutic insights for individuals on the asexual spectrum and their partners. This includes fostering understanding, open communication, and acknowledging the unique aspects of asexual relationships. Championing Diversity and Inclusivity: The exploration of asexual relationships underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating the multiplicity of human experiences. Asexuality exists on a spectrum, reflecting the rich and varied nature of human emotions and connections. As society evolves towards greater inclusivity, it is imperative to challenge assumptions and prejudices that limit our understanding of what constitutes a valid and fulfilling relationship. In Conclusion: The study’s findings echo a sentiment that resonates beyond the confines of asexual relationships – that successful partnerships are founded on communication, understanding, and mutual respect. By embracing the diverse ways in which individuals experience attraction, intimacy, and companionship, we enrich our collective understanding of what it means to love and connect. The study’s revelations pave the way for a more inclusive future, one where asexual-identified persons and their relationships are acknowledged, valued, and celebrated.