HASHTAG: Asexual phobia, LGBTQ+ community, discrimination, hate crime, prejudice Introduction Asexual phobia, also known as acephobia or ‘A’ phobia, refers to the discrimination and prejudice faced by individuals who lack sexual attraction or interest in sexual activity. This form of discrimination is often directed towards people who identify as asexual or fall within the asexual spectrum. While society’s understanding of asexuality is gradually growing, there is still a lack of recognition and examination of prejudice against asexual individuals. This article delves into the prevalence of acephobia, the various manifestations of anti-asexual prejudice, and the impact it has on the LGBTQ+ community. Prevalence of Acephobia Despite the increasing awareness surrounding asexuality and aromanticism, prejudice against asexual and aromantic individuals remains largely unexamined. Research in this area has uncovered strong bias against ace people, with evidence suggesting that they face more prejudice, avoidance, and discrimination compared to cisgender, heterosexual, and even cisgender lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals. In fact, asexual people are often dehumanized, viewed as “machine-like” and lacking emotions. This highlights the urgent need to address anti-asexual bias and protect ace individuals from violence, abuse, and discrimination. Recognizing Anti-Asexual Prejudice Acephobia encompasses various prejudicial attitudes towards asexual and aromantic individuals, based on negative stereotypes. Some common misconceptions and biases include: Believing that asexual individuals are less than human or against human nature. Considering asexuality as a result of mental illness or sexual abuse, thereby viewing asexual individuals as deficient or broken. Assuming that asexual individuals simply haven’t met the “right” person or are going through a phase. Denying their ability to experience love and form meaningful relationships. Labeling asexual individuals as “prudes” and dismissing asexuality as a choice rather than an orientation. Undermining their experiences of oppression and claiming that they are damaging the LGBTQ+ cause. Understanding Anti-Asexual Hate Crime Anti-asexual hate crime refers to any offense, whether verbal or physical, that targets an individual due to their asexual identity. This can include verbal abuse, violence, and online harassment from both strangers and acquaintances. It is important to note that asexuality might not always be visible to others, leading to concentrated abuse in settings where the perpetrator and the targeted person know each other. This can manifest as verbal abuse, unwanted sexual touching, and even domestic abuse within relationships. Shockingly, incidents of “corrective” rape, aimed at changing an individual’s orientation, also occur. These crimes may often go unrecognized in mainstream services, emphasizing the need for accurate recording and addressing of their motivations. To be recorded as a hate incident, a report need not explicitly mention anti-asexual language. It is sufficient for the reporting person to perceive that the incident was motivated by acephobia. Police guidance states that any crime or non-criminal incident should be recorded as motivated by sexual orientation hatred if the reporter feels it was driven by such motivations. However, evidence is required for a court to record a hate crime. Combating Anti-Asexual Prejudice within the LGBTQ+ Community Asexuality is an integral part of sexual diversity, and thus, asexual and aromantic individuals rightfully belong within the LGBTQ+ community. However, it is essential to acknowledge that ace individuals can face prejudice and exclusion even within the community itself. Some argue against the inclusion of asexuality under the LGBTQ+ umbrella, citing similar objections raised historically against bisexual and transgender inclusion. This opposition often hinders the full inclusion and support of asexual individuals. It is crucial for LGBTQ+ service providers to raise awareness about ace identities and acephobia, working towards creating an inclusive environment for all sexual and romantic minorities. Intersectionality: Asexual Individuals and Multiple Forms of Discrimination Sexual orientation and romantic orientation are distinct aspects of an individual’s identity. Asexual individuals may identify as heteroromantic, homoromantic, biromantic, panromantic, or aromantic, leading them to face additional forms of discrimination. In addition to acephobia, asexual and aromantic individuals may also encounter homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, ableism, racism, and other intersecting prejudices. It is crucial to acknowledge and address these multiple forms of oppression when supporting and advocating for asexual individuals. In cases where individuals face hostility rooted in various types of hatred, they should be able to request authorities to record incidents under multiple hate incident categories. Institutional Discrimination and Lack of Legal Protection Asexual individuals often face institutional discrimination due to a lack of understanding and recognition of their identity. Marriages, for example, may be invalidated if not legitimized by consummation, which poses a challenge for asexual individuals who do not experience sexual attraction. Sex education programs in schools may also fail to adequately address asexuality, perpetuating misunderstandings and hindering acceptance. Furthermore, asexual individuals may be pressured into engaging in sexual activity or subjected to attempts to “fix” their asexuality through medical intervention. These systemic challenges highlight the need for greater awareness, education, and legal protection for asexual individuals. Media Representation and Services The representation of asexuality in mainstream media and services is often inadequate, leading to hostility, prejudice, and rejection of asexual individuals. Online dating platforms, such as Bumble and Match.com, frequently lack options for individuals to identify as asexual, making it difficult for them to find suitable romantic partners. Moreover, media portrayals of asexuality can perpetuate negative stereotypes and portray asexuality as undesirable or even pathological. These misrepresentations contribute to the erasure and marginalization of asexual individuals. It is essential for media outlets and service providers to improve their understanding and representation of asexuality, ensuring inclusivity and accurate depictions. Combating Asexual Phobia: Legislation and Education Efforts have been made to combat anti-asexual discrimination through legislation and education. Some countries have implemented laws to protect individuals from discrimination based on their sexual orientation, including asexuality. Workshops and educational programs on asexuality have also been conducted to raise awareness and challenge misconceptions. These initiatives aim to foster understanding, acceptance, and support for asexual individuals within society. Continued advocacy and education are crucial in dismantling asexual phobia and creating a more inclusive and equal world for all. Conclusion Asexual phobia, or acephobia, is a form of discrimination that affects individuals
Abstract: This report sheds light on the key challenges that the asexual community faces in Asia, particularly focusing on issues of invisibility, stigma, discrimination, violence, and lack of support. Despite being a part of the broader queer movement, asexuality often remains overlooked, with a limited acknowledgment of asexual hate crimes. This report emphasizes the unique challenges asexual individuals’ encounter, especially in countries like Bangladesh, where factors such as forced marriages, corrective rape, conversion therapy, and legal barriers exacerbate their struggles. The report concludes by highlighting the need for increased awareness, advocacy, and funding to support the asexual community in Asia. Introduction: The asexual community, or A-Spec, is a marginalized group within the broader queer movement. Despite growing acceptance and recognition of various sexual orientations, asexuality often remains sidelined in discussions and initiatives related to LGBTQ+ rights. This report aims to shed light on the key challenges faced by the asexual community in Asia, focusing on issues of invisibility, stigma, discrimination, violence, and lack of support. Challenges: Invisibility and Stigma: A major challenge for the asexual community in Asia is the lack of visibility and understanding. Asexuality, defined by a lack of sexual attraction, is frequently misunderstood or dismissed as a phase or a form of repression. This lack of recognition leads to feelings of isolation and erasure, contributing to the overall stigma faced by asexual individuals. Discrimination and Violence: Asexual individuals in Asia often face discrimination, both within the larger queer community and in society at large. Asexual hate crimes are rarely acknowledged or addressed, perpetuating an environment where violence against asexual individuals can go unchecked. Asexual teenagers and young adults may come out to confront sex shaming, which can result in verbal and emotional abuse. Forced Marriages and Corrective Rape: A unique challenge faced by asexual women in certain Asian countries is forced marriage. Many women, especially in low-income families, are financially dependent on their fathers or husbands. Pressure to arrange marriages often leads to a lack of agency in choosing their partners, and some asexual women run away to escape this pressure. Corrective rape, intended to “cure” asexual individuals through sexual assault, disproportionately affects asexual women, perpetuating gender-based violence and victimization. Conversion Therapy: A deeply concerning challenge is the practice of conversion therapy. Asexual individuals are often treated as having a sexual dysfunction that requires “conversion” to a normative sexual orientation. This treatment involves acts of physical, psychological, and sexual abuse, leading to lasting psychological and physical damage. The normalization of such harmful therapies further perpetuates the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding asexuality. Case Study: Dipa Mahbuba Yasmin in Bangladesh: Dipa Mahbuba Yasmin’s experience highlights the challenges faced by asexual individuals in Bangladesh. Her encounters with doctors attempting to treat her orientation as a disorder demonstrate the lack of mental health support and understanding for asexuality. Yasmin’s reliance on online therapy from India underscores the scarcity of resources available for asexual individuals in Bangladesh. Legal and Cultural Barriers: In certain Asian countries, including those with Muslim Sharia law, forced marriages and marital rape remain legal. Asexual women, constrained by these laws, often find themselves trapped in unhappy and abusive marriages. The limited legal avenues for seeking divorce further exacerbate their struggles. Lack of Support and Funding: While asexual activism is growing globally, the asexual community in Asia still faces significant challenges in terms of funding and support. Compared to other LGBTQ+ issues, asexuality remains underfunded and less acknowledged by both local and international organizations. Conclusion: The asexual community in Asia confronts numerous challenges, ranging from invisibility and stigma to violence and legal barriers. Forced marriages, corrective rape, conversion therapy, and cultural norms perpetuate these issues, particularly affecting asexual women. The lack of awareness, support, and funding further compounds these challenges. To address these issues, there is a need for increased advocacy, education, and financial resources dedicated to supporting the asexual community’s rights and well-being in Asia. Recognizing asexuality as a valid sexual orientation and acknowledging the unique struggles it presents is essential to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society for all. Celebrating Hope and Unity: Empowering the Asexual Community in the Asian Region In the vibrant tapestry of the LGBTQ+ community in Asia, the asexual community stands as a powerful testament to the diversity of human experience and identity. From raising awareness about asexual hate crimes to fostering meaningful connections and providing visibility to asexual activism, the Asian Network of Asexual and Queer Activism (ANOAQA) is paving the way for a more inclusive and empowered future. A Voice against Asexual Hate Crimes In many parts of Asia, asexual hate crimes often go unreported and unnoticed in mainstream media. ANOAQA has taken a courageous stance to address this issue head-on by disseminating information about such incidents. By raising awareness about these issues, ANOAQA is not only giving a voice to victims but also sparking vital conversations that challenge discrimination and promote understanding. Together, we can work to stop asexual hate crimes and create safer communities for all. Fostering Connections and Personal Growth ANOAQA has become a beacon of hope for Asian asexual individuals, providing them with a platform to engage and connect with each other. Through this network, asexual individuals can share their experiences, find support, and nurture meaningful relationships. The platform also offers opportunities for personal development, empowering individuals to learn, grow, and flourish in an environment that celebrates their uniqueness. Visibility and Recognition of Asexual Activism Asexual activism often remains overlooked within the larger LGBTQ+ community. ANOAQA is changing that narrative by shining a spotlight on asexual activists’ important contributions. By recognizing the efforts of asexual activists, we reinforce the idea that every voice within the LGBTQ+ spectrum matters and is integral to creating a more inclusive world. Empowering Emerging Asexual Activists The future of the LGBTQ+ movement relies on the leadership of emerging activists. ANOAQA is committed to nurturing young asexual activists, providing them with the tools, guidance, and mentorship they need to take their place as leaders within the contemporary queer landscape. By
Introduction “Corrective” rape is a term that has gained significant global attention in recent years due to its disturbing nature and the harm it inflicts upon individuals. It refers to the horrific act of raping someone with the intention of changing their sexual orientation or gender identity. While this form of violence is predominantly associated with the LGBTQ+ community, a lesser-known aspect is that asexual individuals can also fall victim to this heinous crime. This article explores the unique forms of “corrective” rape experienced by asexual victims, the dynamics of partner-involved rape in these cases, the prevalence of such incidents, and the broader context of sexual assault within intimate relationships. Understanding “Corrective” Rape and Asexuality “Corrective” is a heinous crime in which individuals are sexually assaulted, often with the intent to “correct” their sexual orientation or gender identity. Asexuality, an intrinsic aspect of one’s sexual orientation characterized by a lack of sexual attraction or interest, is sometimes misunderstood or even dismissed by society. This lack of awareness can make asexual individuals more vulnerable to sexual violence, as they may encounter disbelief or invalidation of their experiences. Is It Rape? The Asexual Experience In many cases, the perpetrators of “corrective” rape against asexual victims are their own spouses or intimate partners. The dynamics of partner-involved rape in these situations can be complex. The answer lies not only in the legal definitions of rape but also in recognizing the gross violation of autonomy and consent that underlie such actions. The prevalence of this form of abuse remains largely undocumented due to factors such as victim silence, stigma, and a lack of awareness surrounding asexuality itself. Breaking the Myths: Marital/Partner Rape in Non-Violent Relationships Marital or partner rape is not exclusive to violent relationships. Many instances of intimate partner sexual assault occur within seemingly non-violent relationships. The absence of physical violence does not negate the violation of consent. Asexual victims in non-violent relationships may still be coerced, manipulated, or guilt-tripped into sexual activities against their will, which can have profound psychological and emotional impacts. Forms of Corrective Rape Unique to Asexual Victims Asexual individuals who find themselves in intimate relationships can face specific forms of corrective rape that are distinct from those experienced by other sexual orientations. These forms include: The Scope of the Issue Contrary to common misconceptions, asexual individuals can find themselves in both violent and non-violent relationships where they are subjected to sexual assault. Marital or partner rape is not exclusive to physically violent relationships; rather, it’s rooted in a power dynamic that allows one partner to violate the other’s autonomy. The frequency of sexual assault among asexual victims is still being explored, and much of the available research is anecdotal, highlighting the need for comprehensive studies that can reveal the true extent of this issue. The Disturbing Reality: Type and Frequency Preliminary research suggests that asexual victims of sexual assault experience episodes of rape that parallel the experiences of other survivors of intimate partner violence. These episodes may include vaginal, oral, and anal penetration, with forced vaginal intercourse being the most commonly reported form of assault. It’s alarming to note that a significant percentage of victims experience repeated episodes of sexual assault, indicating that this abuse is not limited to isolated incidents. Health Consequences Asexual victims of “corrective” rape face a range of physical and psychological health consequences. This includes not only the immediate physical trauma of the sexual assault itself but also long-term health problems such as vaginal and rectal bleeding, sexually transmitted infections, and pelvic inflammatory disease. The psychological toll is equally profound, with victims at an increased risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use disorders, and suicidal tendencies. Research Recommendations and Conclusion To address the unique forms of “corrective” rape targeting asexual victims, comprehensive research is essential. Justice, health, and social service professionals must be educated about the specific experiences of asexual victims, understanding the nuances of asexuality and the grave consequences of this form of abuse. Assessing for sexual assault, providing appropriate referrals for treatment, and offering safety planning information are crucial steps in supporting asexual survivors on their path to healing. As societies continue to evolve, it’s imperative that we recognize and address the diverse forms of abuse that individuals can endure. By shedding light on the unique aspects of “corrective” rape targeting asexual victims, we pave the way for informed interventions, policy changes, and societal awareness that can help eradicate this disturbing phenomenon. It is high time that we stand united against all forms of intimate partner violence and sexual assault, ensuring a safer and more inclusive world for everyone. Conclusion: Corrective rape targeting asexual individuals is a disturbing reality that demands immediate attention from society, policymakers, and researchers. Efforts to raise awareness, provide support, and conduct in-depth research are essential to addressing this unique form of violence and ensuring justice for the victims. By acknowledging the experiences of asexual individuals and working towards their safety and well-being, we can strive for a more inclusive and compassionate society.