Bisexuality: The Invisible Letter "B" | Misty Gedlinske | TEDxOshkosh

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  • Опубликовано: 21 янв 2019
  • Perception is everything. It impacts our public image, as well as our personal relationships. Being open about one's orientation is a risk, but one that can pay off by living a fully authentic life. Visibility can break down stereotypes, eliminate shame and secrecy, and create accessible, realistic representation and role models.
    Misty Gedlinske is a Fond du Lac, Wisconsin resident originally from Asheville, North Carolina. She received her Associate of Applied Science degree in Leadership Development from Moraine Park Technical College in May 2018, and will transfer to UW-Green Bay in August to pursue her B.A.S. degree in Nonprofit Leadership. Her professional career includes over a decade in local government administration as a Municipal Clerk.
    She is the founder of Fond du Lac Pride Alliance, a community outreach effort connecting local LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies with services, resources, and welcoming organizations. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

Комментарии • 2,1 тыс.

  • @milififi5006
    @milififi5006 5 лет назад +8011

    "I picked a partner. Not a side"
    So important

    • @powergirl5693
      @powergirl5693 4 года назад +49

      I nearly cried at this part, it is just so true💖💜💙

    • @berrystein9197
      @berrystein9197 4 года назад +3

      Facts

    • @milififi5006
      @milififi5006 4 года назад

      @Georgette Petrova Good call. I have this image as a profile pic since ever, but I'm still obsessed with this manhua _-_

    • @zachhoy
      @zachhoy 3 года назад +6

      that was the PRIMARY takeaway from this imo

    • @oliviawilliams5916
      @oliviawilliams5916 2 месяца назад

      that was heart warming to hear.

  • @lenaschubert5533
    @lenaschubert5533 4 года назад +2797

    "I PICKED A PARTNER NOT A SIDE"
    LOUDER FOR THE PEOPLE IN THE BACK

    • @PHlophe
      @PHlophe 4 года назад +1

      Tante Lena gas spoken

    • @redacted5078
      @redacted5078 4 года назад +1

      Preach

    • @sebeauhomevideo2356
      @sebeauhomevideo2356 3 года назад +1

      You mean: THE PEOPLE TAKING IT IN THE BACK
      XD

    • @farateq
      @farateq 3 года назад

      LOUDER FOR THE PEOPLE WHO FELL ASLEEP

    • @eadaoinmalone503
      @eadaoinmalone503 3 года назад

      I don't think love is an option , I think its just there. I don't think you can just stop loving someone. You don't really have an option? I don't know...

  • @Jaz______04
    @Jaz______04 4 года назад +10216

    where are my closeted Bi's at? 💖💜💙

  • @crystaleidson6042
    @crystaleidson6042 5 лет назад +3216

    "I picked a partner, not a side." WHOOO THIS

  • @stupendoushorrendous8258
    @stupendoushorrendous8258 4 года назад +4855

    I laugh so hard when people call bisexuals confused. I've never been less confused. It was when I thought I was straight but was inexplicably attracted to men that I felt confused.

    • @Rage_Harder_Then_Relax
      @Rage_Harder_Then_Relax 4 года назад +72

      LOL..so you actually WERE confused. You're confused about being confused.

    • @michaelregis1015
      @michaelregis1015 4 года назад +81

      @@Rage_Harder_Then_Relax confusception

    • @kaimikalaniYT
      @kaimikalaniYT 4 года назад +183

      I’m not confused about my bisexuality...I’m just confused as to why people question us

    • @victuz
      @victuz 4 года назад +85

      @@kaimikalaniYT They generally don't believe bisexuality exists and that we are "one or the other".
      Or if they trust our statement, they still say we aren't loyal, or that we're promiscuous.

    • @flair6527
      @flair6527 4 года назад +21

      I’m pan and I agree so much. I used to be bi and I was so confused.

  • @colleenmckibben4912
    @colleenmckibben4912 5 лет назад +6254

    Her saying “a different gender” instead of “the opposite gender” is such a small thing but it’s so wonderful to hear this kind of language be normalized

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +244

      Colleen McKibben Yes! Thank you for picking up on that. Gender is not binary, nor is bisexuality.

    • @nematoaddd
      @nematoaddd 4 года назад +11

      @Jake Dean nah

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +120

      Luise Naa I’ll thank you to take your transphobia elsewhere. It is not welcome here. To take your tired punchline to its conclusion, at least helicopters are allowed to serve in our military.

    • @QuiteLunnar
      @QuiteLunnar 4 года назад +27

      @@ellanaa9464 While I do agree that Transphobia is not not believing in more than two genders, I disagree on your statement about Trans people not being allowed in the military. They aren't allowed because Trump didn't want them in the military.

    • @NickRyanBayon
      @NickRyanBayon 4 года назад +18

      @Jake Dean I agree, genetically there are only 2 genders.

  • @rosiehillier4904
    @rosiehillier4904 4 года назад +2893

    I’m bi, I’ve got a boyfriend, and yes. I picked him. Not because he’s a boy but because he’s what I was (am) looking for. I’m not more likely to cheat, I don’t need a girlfriend as a girl to be valid as an lgbt member. Thank you.

  • @cyranguyen7714
    @cyranguyen7714 4 года назад +1519

    Question is how did youtube know I was bi before I did

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +89

      Crazy Cat Lady Bi-Fi reception?

    • @itisakubrow6361
      @itisakubrow6361 4 года назад +35

      It really isn't that weird, you don't have access to swaths of demographic data and a whole department of statisticians at your disposal.

    • @limonade2544
      @limonade2544 4 года назад +5

      Misty Gedlinske I CACKLED HAHAHA

    • @mingling4377
      @mingling4377 4 года назад +20

      i wish i had the gaydar of YT

    • @july4376
      @july4376 4 года назад +6

      buzzfeed knew before i did

  • @oikawadorable1653
    @oikawadorable1653 5 лет назад +6368

    FINALLY someone who explains it in a correct way, and she didn't say that bisexuality is binary i love her

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +266

      oikawadorable Thank you! When teaching this concept to folks who stumble over “Bi means two,” I tell them that the “two” is same and different. Gender is absolutely a spectrum, not a binary. Individual attractions vary, but there is space for all within the scope of Bisexuality.

    • @oikawadorable1653
      @oikawadorable1653 5 лет назад +76

      @@MistyGedlinske yes! so many people can't understand that, even some bisexuals themselves. Anyways i really enjoyed your TEDtalk, thank you for giving us a voice

    • @lucaspaiva7450
      @lucaspaiva7450 5 лет назад

      I guess that I like you man

    • @c.v8838
      @c.v8838 5 лет назад +12

      Misty Gedlinske you are a star

    • @carrie637
      @carrie637 5 лет назад +19

      You can also say that the two in reference are for binary and non binary people.

  • @Candzee_Kitu
    @Candzee_Kitu 5 лет назад +5057

    If only everyone was as understanding as this women.

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +79

      Candzee Kitu Thanks, Candzee. I hope you’re well.

    • @shgh2695
      @shgh2695 5 лет назад +41

      Misty Gedlinske I never though the actual person in the talk would respond lmao

    • @chloemorgan3632
      @chloemorgan3632 4 года назад

      @@shgh2695 what do you mean by the clown emoticon?

    • @shgh2695
      @shgh2695 4 года назад +34

      Chloe Morgan you are a clown

    • @sunflower3352
      @sunflower3352 4 года назад +65

      Chloe Morgan “Hate doesn’t come from religion, it comes from fear.”

  • @KnightlyScarlet
    @KnightlyScarlet 5 лет назад +2039

    Most annoying thing friends say when you say you're bi. "Wait. You're not attracted to me are you?!" No. What have I ever done to make you think that? Nothing. Yet one statement makes you think about me hitting on you? really?

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +150

      Knightly Scarlet Yep, there’s a lot of projected insecurity and arrogance in those kinds of comments.

    • @theminnesotawitch
      @theminnesotawitch 4 года назад +97

      I'm happy because when I told a few friends they were like "oh, okay, cool." What a lovely thing to say ammiright haha

    • @shannonshaw5865
      @shannonshaw5865 4 года назад +37

      This!! One of the reasons I'm really worried to tell some of my religious friends.

    • @themyofmy
      @themyofmy 4 года назад +85

      i literally told a kid from school im bi and he pointed to some random girl and said "sO yOuRe AtTrAcTeD tO hEr????!!1!??"
      like
      no

    • @k8tebird
      @k8tebird 4 года назад +58

      Right?! I think I'm more picky about who I'm attracted to than a lot of straight people.

  • @kaileys6237
    @kaileys6237 4 года назад +6603

    I’m closeted but I swear my recommendations know what’s up
    Edit: Nearly a year later from when I commenting this I’ve come out to friends
    💖💜💙 Happy pride you guys!
    EDIT: its 2021 so its now nearly 2 YEARS since I posted the original comment (I always get more engagement during pride month lol) and I have yet come out to family. Maybe youll hear from me again when I do because Ive been thinking of coming out to family ❤️🏳️‍🌈 FUTURE ME HEY HAVE YOU DONE IT I HOPE U HAVE
    edit: (3 years since the original post) MUHAHAHAHA YES I HAVE!!! SOME FAMILY KNOWS AND IT WAS VERY FUNNY BC THEY WERE ALL LIKE "YEAH I HAD A FEELING YOU WERE"

  • @ellie4300
    @ellie4300 4 года назад +2157

    Shy, bi and ready to cry🥺💕

  • @princembat
    @princembat 5 лет назад +2800

    im open about my orientation but the people in my walking life pretend its not there or that im just being ridiculous. i dont care about that though. thank you for this video, as a fellow bi.

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +56

      Max Winters You’re welcome. I’m glad you enjoyed it.

    • @JustEvelynAndArt
      @JustEvelynAndArt 5 лет назад +26

      This is so true, I feel the same way when people who don't know who I really am laughs it off as joke or simply ignore this about me

    • @RK-ep8qy
      @RK-ep8qy 5 лет назад +11

      Max Winters open? Really? I never would have guessed you were bi, maybe you could make it a bit obvious and put it in your profile

    • @princembat
      @princembat 5 лет назад +12

      @@RK-ep8qy im sensing a hint of sarcasm :P

    • @RK-ep8qy
      @RK-ep8qy 5 лет назад +2

      Max Winters 😆

  • @WitchyCharlie
    @WitchyCharlie 4 года назад +632

    “I fall in love with the soul before the body.” -Magnus Bane, Shadowhunters.

    • @sarakotevska5089
      @sarakotevska5089 4 года назад +6

      Cheree Porter awwee

    • @zynory
      @zynory 4 года назад +35

      This might sound weird but this show has made me realise that i'm bi...

    • @laramalanquini3124
      @laramalanquini3124 4 года назад +8

      Okay maybe i wanna cry rn

    • @Inevitably_Invisible
      @Inevitably_Invisible 4 года назад +18

      I’m so sad that the show ended!!! Part of me realizing I was bi was being attracted to Jace, Clary, Isabelle and Alec all at the same time 😩

    • @flynnbraithwaite4322
      @flynnbraithwaite4322 4 года назад +4

      I love him so much!!! Awwwww! He (his character) really really helped me to figure out who I was, and who I like!

  • @Just.Lindsey
    @Just.Lindsey 5 лет назад +1417

    “Isn’t it better to be invisible than to be demonized?...” 😩💔 I understand this all too well being a pastors kid!!

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +62

      Lindsey Ramirez I see you. I wish you all the best.

    • @louise4778
      @louise4778 5 лет назад +21

      Stay strong💕

    • @elliejordan3233
      @elliejordan3233 4 года назад +33

      I fully understand you with this, I too am a pastor's kid. We'll get through it though. We have each other to lean on when things get tough

    • @mello1159
      @mello1159 4 года назад +20

      This hits home because my mom is a pastor too.

    • @tuttochiaramentechiaro
      @tuttochiaramentechiaro 4 года назад +9

      I have to hide the fact that I am vegan because when people know they use to treat me very differently in comparison to when they didn't know yet. It feels so bad.

  • @cr4shmycar118
    @cr4shmycar118 5 лет назад +1721

    As a bi teenager... thank you. Every word struck a chord with me. I’m in the middle of the coming out process and thankfully I haven’t had anyone react negatively, but I’m worried about what will happen if I’m publicly out.

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +73

      Nightslash360 You’re welcome. I’m glad you enjoyed this Talk. 40-year-old Me was less scared than Teenage Me, but it was still a huge step. Take time if you need to, and I wish you all the best.

    • @serenityrose2594
      @serenityrose2594 4 года назад +24

      ME TOO! Part of my family knows and some friends, but there are some people who I am just terrified to tell. I just keep hearing the "it's just a phase" repeating in my head, even if I know that its not.

    • @keithmahoney4390
      @keithmahoney4390 4 года назад +6

      I've always liked both sexes and I don't care what people think

    • @keithmahoney4390
      @keithmahoney4390 4 года назад

      Nightslash from reading your post I guess you're American ?󾓪

    • @flair6527
      @flair6527 4 года назад +1

      Keith Mahoney, No. Not both sexes. All sexes.

  • @Mariajosea27
    @Mariajosea27 5 лет назад +1863

    i fee invisible almost everyday and for the first time in 17 minutes i felt comprehended even it as just by a screen. Than you.

  • @halloooo1duuuuu
    @halloooo1duuuuu 5 лет назад +2588

    she has such an amazing and beautiful voice! She should become an audiobook narrator or something. Also, she seems like such a wonderful person, I love her! Thank you for your talk!

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +69

      hallo Thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed this.

    • @MrHarpette
      @MrHarpette 5 лет назад +11

      @@MistyGedlinske Well i wonder how well your voice carried in that auditorium, since in this vid i have the volume cranked up all the way and i still can't hear you well, i'm going to have to plug in the headphones to understand what you're saying.

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +25

      Jerome Potts I’m sorry. That’s an issue for the sound technicians, and unfortunately outside my control. I sometimes have trouble with sound levels, too.

    • @elenadylgerova7917
      @elenadylgerova7917 4 года назад +9

      Saaaame, I love her voice

    • @adamaldonado739
      @adamaldonado739 4 года назад +5

      @@MistyGedlinske I love your voice

  • @JustEvelynAndArt
    @JustEvelynAndArt 5 лет назад +1423

    6:25 The fact that she said 'Bisexuals are indecisive' and 'going through a phase' really hits close to home because this is not only said to me by people who are straight but also those from the LGBTQ+ too. I mean yeah I get where your coming, but what I don't understand is why can't I love who I want to love if I accept who you want to love. Can't it be enough if I say I like both male and female the way you like them too? Am I not allowed to say that guys are cute while I am in a relationship with a girl? I know that LGBTQ+ is accepting but sometimes I still get negative hate from both sides of the spectrum

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +118

      TypicalBookworm: Eve You are allowed, and it is enough. Not because I said so, but because it’s true. You are whole and valid as you are.

    • @Dancestar1981
      @Dancestar1981 5 лет назад +26

      TypicalBookworm: Eve I think we need to adopt the ideas of the Ancient Greeks in love. There are so many different types of love.

    • @meerasingh2624
      @meerasingh2624 4 года назад +64

      Whenever I say I’m bi my friends say that I’m not. That I just think someone of the opposite gender is attractive and that just because I think that, doesn’t mean I’m bi. I don’t understand why I can’t just be bi. Like I already feel like an imposter all of the time and doubt myself with everything which is why I didn’t know I had anxiety until now. I kept thinking I was making it up and it would pass. What if I just want a relationship with a guy or girl? Like why can’t I say that and people just be cool with that instead of saying I’m confused or asking me to prove it by stating how I feel when I look at a girl I think is attractive? It frustrates me that they feel the need to fight me on something I find true about myself. Sorry that was a lot to dump on the internet

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +36

      Meera Singh Hi, Meera. I see you. You’re allowed to be bi, not that you need anybody’s permission. Sounds like they’re the ones who are confused.

    • @meerasingh2624
      @meerasingh2624 4 года назад +14

      Misty Gedlinske thank you ❤️ you made my night

  • @lord.have.myrcene
    @lord.have.myrcene 4 года назад +264

    It's crazy that she put this invisible feeling into words

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +7

      Wren Lorraine I tried, anyway. I hope it helped you. Thanks for watching.

  • @yellowst1494
    @yellowst1494 5 лет назад +502

    I love when she describes the difference between "privacy" and "secrecy". I couldnt quite put my finger on it but it's exactly the clarification i needed to hear

    • @wacey7455
      @wacey7455 5 лет назад +11

      Same here. Have been thinking about this lately.

    • @Miss_NatashaO
      @Miss_NatashaO 4 года назад +10

      I know it as well. Hearing her talk had calmed me down. Despite all that happens in my life, I'm gonna be OK.

  • @surya7930
    @surya7930 4 года назад +235

    "Sometimes, it starts a little voice in your head that says: "I'm just going to stay quiet because isn't it better to stay invisible than to be demonized.I don't mind being mislabelled,if it means that I am not going to be seen defective or lesser".That voice, can get really, really loud.Please don't listen to it.That way lies self-hatred and it will eat you alive.It's not true, it's not fair and nobody deserves it."

    • @leonstrubbe9940
      @leonstrubbe9940 2 года назад +2

      i've had this little voice in my head for a few months and let me say...that was the worst period in my life so far. so please never listen to it. I took a lot of big decisions and still have a long way to go by telling everyone that im bi.I even told my male crush i liked him which sadly was not received well,but you deserve love and will get it one day by finding a partner!

  • @milescarr8524
    @milescarr8524 4 года назад +206

    I feel so bad. She’s so funny but no one is laughing and making awkward silence

    • @yunmis1300
      @yunmis1300 4 года назад +2

      are you saying that she talking about being bi is a joke? i hope i got it wrong or else i'll be seriously disgusted. when she actually makes a joke people laugh so idk why you said that, she made jokes (i think) two times just so the speech wouldn't be so serious.

    • @norahgilbert1679
      @norahgilbert1679 4 года назад +60

      SockyAnimatics I don’t think so... they’re pointing out the fact that it was a quiet crowd when she DID make jokes

    • @yunmis1300
      @yunmis1300 4 года назад +2

      @@norahgilbert1679 but people did laugh at her jokes. i feel like the comment indeed was mockery.

    • @Ishaankaushal1
      @Ishaankaushal1 4 года назад +16

      @@yunmis1300 not really when compared to most ted talks

    • @anshnanavati
      @anshnanavati 4 года назад +27

      @@yunmis1300 no, there were quite a few times when (I feel) she was attempting humour but it wasn't well-received by the audience.

  • @HomoExDiamond
    @HomoExDiamond 5 лет назад +1192

    from the bottom of my heart, thank you for those words

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +16

      Julia H.E.D. You’re welcome.

    • @ch1vis
      @ch1vis 5 лет назад +2

      Misty Gedlinske Thank You!!!

  • @InventorZahran
    @InventorZahran 4 года назад +200

    Despite being bi, I "straight-pass" almost everywhere to avoid judgement or discrimination...

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +20

      InventorZahran 327 I understand that practice. I did too, for a very long time. All my best to you.

    • @unicorntomboy9736
      @unicorntomboy9736 4 года назад +3

      Same

    • @flaviasomarriba6555
      @flaviasomarriba6555 3 года назад +12

      same, after 4 years, I began saying it to only a few people, some of them saying that "I can find a person of the same gender pretty, doesn't mean you are into them" and it really hurts how hard it is to be judged as if you are saying nonsense..

    • @karminyates3261
      @karminyates3261 3 года назад +5

      I know this was from a long time ago but there’s no such thing as being straight passing most people in the world are either assume to be straight or cis.

  • @DALICAHE92
    @DALICAHE92 5 лет назад +625

    My girlfriend sent me this. I have always tried and searched for ways so that she feels comfortable and safe. But most importantly seen, cause since we’re both women I don’t want her to feel mislabeled by me. So this is so useful and definitely helps me understand her and support her more. It was an amazing video

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +25

      Dalicahe I’m glad you enjoyed, and hope this helps you.

    • @BearclawsBranson
      @BearclawsBranson 4 года назад +14

      My wife sent it to me and it really helped me, too

    • @360xssp
      @360xssp 4 года назад +8

      my girlfriend also sent me a link to this video. This talk is so on point, I understand Bi's and their situation and thinking much better now. Thank you very much!!

    • @emilydickinson5033
      @emilydickinson5033 3 года назад

      I'm trying to work up the courage to send this to my gf so thank you for sharing your reaction... Have a lovely day :)

  • @mathewhart530
    @mathewhart530 4 года назад +360

    Thank you for reminding me of the difference between privacy and secrecy

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +8

      Mathew Hart You’re welcome. I’m glad you enjoyed.

  • @jeffsanon13
    @jeffsanon13 4 года назад +95

    💖💜💙 “Picked a partner, not a side.”

  • @futurestar2999
    @futurestar2999 5 лет назад +538

    This video just popped up in my recommended and damn, did I need to hear it. I feel like a stranger in my house after coming out to my mom who’s made me feel ashamed of who I am. Being bi is something I struggled with for years and when I finally got the courage to say it out loud, I told my BF who’s wonderful and loves me for me, but my mom just doesn’t seem to understand. I’ve been told by her not to tell my other family members because she doesn’t think it’s important. This video has opened my eyes. I don’t know when and I don’t know how, but telling my other family IS important and they deserve to know the version of me that makes me proud to be myself. ❤️

    • @redalpha2392
      @redalpha2392 4 года назад +23

      My mom and dad said to me that I'm going through a phase... I almost broke down in tears.

    • @lightawake
      @lightawake 4 года назад +11

      @@redalpha2392 I'm sorry to hear that...i truly feel that no one else has the right to try to tell you who you are or aren't - it's such disrespect at the most basic level and it's not okay to say. Hugs xx

    • @neigeepierrot4694
      @neigeepierrot4694 4 года назад +2

      Ellie Rutt same here I’m sorry your mom has not accepted you yet I hope she does soon good luck though

  • @StoneSaysHello
    @StoneSaysHello 5 лет назад +122

    I thought I was straight till I was 22 because of all this. People kept telling me 'it didn't count' made out with a girl, nope, had a massive crush on my female friend, nope, ect.

  • @haleysadlemyer3228
    @haleysadlemyer3228 4 года назад +129

    “There is no deadline or expiration date on your truth” 💕

    • @terilynn7074
      @terilynn7074 4 года назад

      but a lot of people don't like your truth so you better get a man while you can

    • @aperson7421
      @aperson7421 4 года назад

      The truth is that your "truth" isn't the truth

    • @mikedewalt697
      @mikedewalt697 4 года назад

      God's Truth trumps over what people 'think' to be true. God's Truth vs. your 'truth'. You will lose that battle 100% of the time.

    • @Alina_Schmidt
      @Alina_Schmidt 3 года назад +1

      @@mikedewalt697
      Oh dear, why do you project your own mistakes on normal people?

  • @feelsrestricted8322
    @feelsrestricted8322 5 лет назад +653

    Hello bi guys and gals, to avoid staying invisible to each other, wear the bi colors/flag on a piece of jewelry(like a bracelet). Lets make this trend popular, so we don’t necessarily need to scream attention to ourselves, but we can still identify each other as sources of strength (or even potential partners, haha).
    Comment on any other ideas.

    • @strawberrymarshmallow7370
      @strawberrymarshmallow7370 5 лет назад +53

      Honestly! I'm about ready to make a lil ring right now 😂

    • @dariarussu686
      @dariarussu686 5 лет назад +40

      Love this!! Had the same idea for years! We need more people to do that :))))

    • @Phoenix909TV
      @Phoenix909TV 5 лет назад +49

      Exactly what I thought of after seeing this video and reading on bi erasure on reddit for a few days. We need to be visible not only for ourselves but also to others to set the simple standard that we exist.

    • @jessf7341
      @jessf7341 4 года назад +9

      *[FeelsRestricted]* Honestly that is a great idea

    • @chambergreece3914
      @chambergreece3914 4 года назад +23

      But what if biphobic people get to know about this trend and start attacking us.

  • @bicthalis7740
    @bicthalis7740 4 года назад +341

    invisi*BI*lity

  • @mecchabaron64
    @mecchabaron64 4 года назад +143

    I recently, at 21 years old came out as bi and I had no clue of the problems facing our community. It makes me want to bring everyone into a giant hug and let them know they are accepted for who they are

    • @niaranoctyrna3754
      @niaranoctyrna3754 4 года назад +4

      I am 20 years old and...probably going to be in the same boat soon

    • @sehabel
      @sehabel 8 месяцев назад

      I'm 21 and I came out as trans and bi 2 months ago. It feels fantastic to finally be seen as the person I truly am, I've been depressed and suicidal for way too long.

  • @Just.Lindsey
    @Just.Lindsey 5 лет назад +93

    “The only person you’re obligated to save... is You.”

  • @LilyJbeauty
    @LilyJbeauty 5 лет назад +306

    Some things you don’t even realize you’re struggling with, and your words made me feel okay and empowered. We exist and i strive to not be invisible anymore

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +13

      lily jacqueline We absolutely exist! All the best to you.

  • @jordansullivan5764
    @jordansullivan5764 4 года назад +98

    "It can be really difficult to turn your powers off -- even if you really want to." As femme bi woman, it is soooo hard to get other women to notice you're hitting on them and not just being friendly.

    • @adiarbiv4613
      @adiarbiv4613 4 года назад +5

      Jordan Sullivan oof hi it’s true

    • @misakichan6723
      @misakichan6723 3 года назад +1

      Can you please explain what femme bi is?? I'm sorry I don't know but I'm very curious about it?

    • @theincredibleknuffibar4834
      @theincredibleknuffibar4834 3 года назад +1

      @@misakichan6723 feminine Presenting bi women :)

  • @sebastianboeddinghaus3505
    @sebastianboeddinghaus3505 5 лет назад +554

    Bi people are the sweetest people you can ever meet, but we get the most hate from straight and LGBT+ people🤕😢. Also crikey this lady is very good and Imma go send this to all the people I'm out to who don't understand bisexuality.

    • @rosmarinlavendel1477
      @rosmarinlavendel1477 5 лет назад +3

      Seb 713 thankyouuu.

    • @sebastianboeddinghaus3505
      @sebastianboeddinghaus3505 5 лет назад +42

      Rookielove1 Sure, but a lot of people don't think that bi people are serious in romantic pursuits, believing them to be confused, indesisive (English🎉) or just going through a phase. We call that erasion or biphobia and it's mean.
      Edit : just saw the family part, idk I can't speak for those people, I have never known anyone to want to date a family member.

    • @marieb.1810
      @marieb.1810 4 года назад +7

      Oh wow. I was at a straight country western bar and i got a crush on a girl there who looks VERY butch and after we fast danced she reached out to grab my hand. So i was drinking a bit to get my courage up to go up to her which i did like 4 times. Now there's this guy i knew from around town i've been chasing too. Gave him my ph number at least 3x and he never called. So he was at the bar too. I was telling him that i had a crush on K___ and gave her my ph number, but she never called me. I then said, "um , you never called me either. " I was like crushing on two different sexes at the same time! He took it all in stride when i said i liked that girl. I was asking him imfo about her and he was telling me. Anyway,, don't get drunk if you are bi cuz ya never know what you will say to people!

    • @Heyiya-if
      @Heyiya-if 4 года назад +39

      Not dating a bi person on the basis just not being attracted or interested is fine. Not dating them on the basis of *them being bi*... is biphobia.

    • @xxalicegamingxx5077
      @xxalicegamingxx5077 4 года назад +3

      Heyiya-if
      No it’s not. Lmao! People don’t have to date bi people if they don’t want to. Why can’t bisexuals date bisexuals? Date your own people ffs instead of guilting other people into why they aren’t dating you.

  • @qingruxu135
    @qingruxu135 4 года назад +97

    Ah ok, lesson learnt. Bisexuals are superheroes.

    • @cherade99
      @cherade99 4 года назад +12

      Well we try!

    • @puffcatco
      @puffcatco 3 года назад +4

      aww, You too :)

    • @updated_autopsy_report1
      @updated_autopsy_report1 3 года назад +2

      we are superheroes with super powers!

    • @F4wk3s
      @F4wk3s 4 месяца назад

      Nah, I use my invisibility to commit crimes

  • @oliviahaglund8978
    @oliviahaglund8978 4 года назад +123

    "Be visible first and foremost to yourself." Chills. This was really needed and really beautiful.

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +6

      Olivia Haglund thanks, Olivia. I’m glad you enjoyed.

  • @rararaex6990
    @rararaex6990 5 лет назад +477

    I wanted to say thank you for this talk. You are right about how heavy the invisibility burden is. It felt like a weight off my shoulders once everyone who mattered in my life knew about my bisexuality and I didn't realise just how much hiding my true self was affecting me until I came out. It's content like this that helped me at the time so i know there are people out there that have benefited from your courage to share your story. xx

  • @garveyful1
    @garveyful1 5 лет назад +439

    Stumbled across this and felt every word in my soul. Thank you for a beautifully spoken, intelligent and compassionate speech.
    ❤💜💙 🏳️‍🌈

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +11

      Amanda Garvey You’re quite welcome. I’m glad you enjoyed it.

  • @benoncarsten396
    @benoncarsten396 5 месяцев назад +6

    48 years underwater.
    I began the painful process of surfacing a few months ago.
    Until now my wife was the only one who knew.
    Three days ago I had a hard conversation with my 22 year old daughter. Today my weight feels lighter.
    I’m an infant learning how to speak about what I have felt for decades. Thank you so much for giving me these words and this language.

  • @lizzy1084
    @lizzy1084 4 года назад +158

    “I picked a partner, not a side” - my heart feels free hearing someone say it for me.
    Not confused, not a phase, who i am.
    Thank you!

    • @mikedewalt697
      @mikedewalt697 4 года назад

      Who you are is a sinner who does not want to repent. I'm a sinner who repents. Now you know the big difference from a pagan and a Christian

    • @lizzy1084
      @lizzy1084 4 года назад +2

      MIKE DEWALT what is wrong with you?!

    • @mikedewalt697
      @mikedewalt697 4 года назад

      @@lizzy1084 Absolutely nothing.

    • @abby_v.v
      @abby_v.v 4 года назад +1

      homophobes are rampant

  • @graceless000
    @graceless000 5 лет назад +126

    “I picked a partner, not a side.”
    Yes!! Thank you!

  • @NelyMokay
    @NelyMokay 5 лет назад +215

    I really needed this. I repeatedly chose not to say anything we people assume I’m straight. But then would feel bad when I say I have a crush on someone (sometimes girls) and people assume I’m talking about a men. It feels like I’m not being honest but I’ve managed to convince myself that is not too important. It actually is. I guess is part of accepting myself for who I am.
    Thank you.

    • @elainerogers6337
      @elainerogers6337 5 лет назад +10

      Im asexual and romantic and I hear my parents asking me if I have any crushes or if I like anyone. I am too scared to come out to them but I hope with time I can. I hope that your loved ones will except you ❤💚💜

    • @mikedewalt697
      @mikedewalt697 4 года назад +1

      God is more important.

    • @yunmis1300
      @yunmis1300 4 года назад +1

      @@mikedewalt697your comment made me puke just now ngl

    • @mikedewalt697
      @mikedewalt697 4 года назад

      @@yunmis1300 Of course..because you are a weak thin-skinned person

    • @mcplumpkin6191
      @mcplumpkin6191 3 года назад +1

      @@mikedewalt697 doesnt God hate the sin, but not the sinner?

  • @targetaudience0x
    @targetaudience0x 4 года назад +41

    wow that final line - "the only person you're obligated to save is you" - brought tears to my eyes. What an articulate, amazing person.

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +3

      Matil D Thank you so much. I’m glad you enjoyed.

  • @arwenjoy8962
    @arwenjoy8962 5 лет назад +182

    This is such a good message ro here. I am 14 and Bi, luckily in my family, friend group and school are very accepting environments. But i have worried about how i will be accepted out in the world.

    • @Jig_Artist
      @Jig_Artist 5 лет назад +24

      Arwen Joy If your friends and family accept you, that’s an excellent start. Be proud. When you are out in the world, the right type of people won’t even care.

    • @donniezawadski2047
      @donniezawadski2047 5 лет назад +8

      Stick around people who love you for who you are
      Also hang with friends who inspire you !! Best of luck and don't worry. It's gonna be fine 🗽

    • @unicorntomboy9736
      @unicorntomboy9736 4 года назад +3

      If they accept you, that's all that truly matters

  • @paulaaaii7442
    @paulaaaii7442 5 лет назад +60

    "The only person your obligated to save...is you" honestly I needed this

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +6

      Paula H I’m glad it was there for you.

    • @paulaaaii7442
      @paulaaaii7442 5 лет назад +3

      @@MistyGedlinske thank you for replying omg😍. I hope you know this ted ed gave me the spur of the moment courege to come out to my family as bi. It's been such a breath of fresh air, that I was forcing myself to drown out. So soooooo many thanks to you💛💛💛.

  • @animeunknown8708
    @animeunknown8708 5 лет назад +92

    Her voice is so soothing

  • @betelgezaa
    @betelgezaa 4 года назад +51

    She has a magic voice. Whatever she says I could listen to for hours ....she would be great in “voice therapy”.

  • @emilylizotte9793
    @emilylizotte9793 4 года назад +53

    I have never felt more acceptance and understanding towards my bisexuality than in this moment. Thank you.

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +2

      Emily Lizotte You’re so very welcome.

  • @SashyGryphyth
    @SashyGryphyth 4 года назад +58

    "Identity is not taboo." Throughout this video Misty hit nail after nail right on the head. It was impressively accurate.
    I couldn't pick a person based on something as gender, I need the right personality, and gender doesn't guarentee the right one.

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад

      SashyGryphyth I’m glad this Talk spoke to you!

  • @francescabellan2313
    @francescabellan2313 5 лет назад +241

    Great talk! Clear, informative, compassionate... THANK YOU so much for this. As someone who's spent the last 12 years of her life trying to educate people on bisexuality (I co-run a blog, FB page and IG profile in Italian on bi-pan visibility), I can't praise you enough for bringing this subject to TED. So many people are still suffering from the consequences of bi invisibility and erasure. Will do my best to share this video as much as I can.

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +11

      Francesca Bellan I’m honored! Thank you so much!

    • @sophiafried_
      @sophiafried_ 5 лет назад +2

      hey :) i would like to follow you, whats your blog called?

  • @Vampirech1ck
    @Vampirech1ck 4 года назад +195

    This is a good talk, meany things she is saying could easily apply to asexuality as well.
    That’s why gotta have each-others backs

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +12

      Vampirech1ck Agreed, and other commenters have made the same observation. Thanks for watching!

    • @kerchewy2571
      @kerchewy2571 4 года назад +20

      Bi ace solidarity!!!

    • @mikedewalt697
      @mikedewalt697 4 года назад

      God don't have your back on this subject, so people can't help you with that.

    • @kerchewy2571
      @kerchewy2571 4 года назад +19

      MIKE DEWALT not everyone believes in god mike.

    • @mikedewalt697
      @mikedewalt697 4 года назад

      @@kerchewy2571 True, but its a dominate worldview, especially over atheism. I believe in God and so I will speak from my perspective based on my worldview. (raised by atheists btw).Plus I am exercising my 1st Amendment Rights, so there's that too.

  • @CoachBess
    @CoachBess 4 года назад +31

    The only person you’re obligated to save is “You”

  • @rovietergeek
    @rovietergeek 5 лет назад +147

    Thank you so much for making me realize how important it is to not let myself think that I am just confused. That I should acknowledge the fact that this is who I am. I am not just stuck in a phase, and that choosing to be with a person either of the opposite or same gender, does not nullify my bisexuality.

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +20

      Rovieter Geek Thank you so much for your comment. I’m so glad you enjoyed the Talk. You are real and valid and absolutely enough.

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +16

      Rovieter Geek Bisexuality also encompasses non-binary gender-nonconforming folks. You may hear otherwise but such things are not true.

    • @rovietergeek
      @rovietergeek 5 лет назад +11

      Misty Gedlinske Actually in my current high school, we were asked to conduct researches of our own. I chose to make a research that focused on gender stereotyping and gender conformity. I wish I’d seen this sooner. It would have been a great contribution to the researcg

    • @sebastianboeddinghaus3505
      @sebastianboeddinghaus3505 5 лет назад +4

      Rovieter Geek 💗💜💙

  • @joey4283
    @joey4283 4 года назад +40

    "And her fangirl crushes,y'all let me tell ya,on certain British celebrities can be seen from s p a c e"i feel ya girl. i feel ya

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +2

      Jellby Fish The purple shirt was an intentional choice 😉

  • @timothysmith7080
    @timothysmith7080 3 года назад +16

    "If for right now you only feel comfortable or safe whispering the truth to yourself say it anyway."
    That is a very powerful statement.

  • @kialuvsyoo
    @kialuvsyoo 2 года назад +17

    She made me cry at least 3 times in just 17 minutes. I feel shook. I feel seen. I feel understood. I feel encouraged. I feel loved.

  • @elixir6327
    @elixir6327 5 лет назад +72

    I’m glad someone chose to speak up about this. Everyone seems to get so caught up in the bigger picture of peace for LGBT+ people that they forget the erasure going on within their own community

    • @lauracabe
      @lauracabe 5 лет назад +1

      Laoise 🙌🏻🔥🔥🔥

  • @andslove88
    @andslove88 5 лет назад +173

    I'm so effing proud of my bisexuality 💙💜❤

  • @lugh8592
    @lugh8592 5 лет назад +72

    Finally, i started crying. Thank you so much. I feel understood for the first time EVER

  • @pandispandilps7012
    @pandispandilps7012 4 года назад +20

    I had to stay hidden for years because “I was to young” I was eleven when I figured it out and I had two friends who also was bi.
    I know I was young but I had herd many times from adults that I was smarter than many other grownups that they met, and I had no problem saying something and they would take my seriously. But not with this. Why?
    ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜 💖💜💙

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +5

      Pandis & Pandi LPS I’m sorry that happened to you. It wasn’t right, and it wasn’t fair. I see you.

  • @citrus8884
    @citrus8884 4 года назад +22

    In the community people get so annoyed because apparently we have it easier. We are still LGBT, and it’s also hard for us. It’s not a competition to see who gets more backlash, it’s an opportunity to support each other.

    • @justsayin1756
      @justsayin1756 9 месяцев назад +1

      The statistics do not reflect that bisexuals have it easier

  • @hastaluegoluka
    @hastaluegoluka 4 года назад +14

    this woman gives me hope. she is an example of what my future can be like. i will be able to marry the person i love and have a family with them, and i will be okay. this was so inspiring and i hope other baby bisexuals like me will feel validated and comforted by this video ❤️❤️❤️

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +1

      Elena Santin I’m glad it spoke to you. I wish you every good thing. Be well.

  • @francescacappai2652
    @francescacappai2652 5 лет назад +43

    This might be a stretch, but she is wearing a PURPLE shirt. That might be something 😂

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +16

      Francesca Cappai It was an intentional choice. 😉

  • @soph7066
    @soph7066 4 года назад +6

    “ the only person your obligated to save, is you” iconic

  • @tesseraph
    @tesseraph 5 лет назад +18

    Her style of communication was both captivating and calming and everything she had to say was spot on. One of the best TED talks I've seen in a long time!

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад

      Topi Viljamaa Thanks! I’m glad you enjoyed it.

  • @IWishICouldThinkOfAGoodHandle
    @IWishICouldThinkOfAGoodHandle 4 года назад +13

    She deserved the huge cheer she got at the end

  • @alyssaolson7964
    @alyssaolson7964 5 лет назад +33

    I'm pansexual, and I totally get this, too. When I was in seventh grade, I had my first crush on a girl. I knew what it was to some degree, but I kept fighting it because I didn't even know pansexuality or bisexuality existed, and I thought I was straight (since I'd had a few crushes on guys, including one I'd just gotten over a couple months ago). The only reason I knew bisexuality existed was a DeviantArt profile I'd seen a while ago that I thankfully remembered (after *hours* of not paying attention in math class because I was too busy worrying about this stuff). When I thought of that was such a relief, because in that moment I knew I wasn't defective.
    I looked up other sexualities when I got home, so that I could be more aware of all the different sexualities and could make sure I found a label that fit me (pansexual, if you've forgotten).

    • @lilytehrani6243
      @lilytehrani6243 4 года назад +1

      I wanted to keep reading that - you'd make a great writer (soz for the random comment)

  • @JaShleylover17
    @JaShleylover17 4 года назад +20

    Dang. Who would've though Ted Talks will be this emotional? Great video, thank you so much ❤💙💜

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +1

      JaShleylover17 You’re welcome. I’m glad you enjoyed

  • @aster5600
    @aster5600 2 года назад +6

    I'm crying from feeling so understood. Sending hugs from the closet.

  • @abirdietoldme4102
    @abirdietoldme4102 4 года назад +9

    Finally, someone said it. Omission and reliance on other people's assumptions really hit home. And Erasure is very real.

  • @sofitaylor725
    @sofitaylor725 5 лет назад +32

    It is so nice to finally be comprehended by someone, even if it’s just in my computer. I feel invisible every day and thanks to this for at least 17 minutes I didn’t feel invisible. You are an incredible person and I hope there are more people like you out there 💕💕

    • @CrescentPaws5000
      @CrescentPaws5000 4 года назад +1

      Sofi Taylor it’s ok 🍞🍫🍞🍌🤗🤗🤗

  • @macarooni4023
    @macarooni4023 4 года назад +7

    I just wanted to say her voice is really calming like she could read me a bedtime story to sleep.

  • @jiska8851
    @jiska8851 5 лет назад +52

    Omg you touched on exactly the right points loved this vid 👏😍 but what shocked me the most was the given data 😣

  • @tamara.mw.
    @tamara.mw. 4 года назад +13

    This has given me a lot of strength.
    Maybe I won't come out just yet, but I'm trying to slowly get rid of those voices you talked about which are so, so true.
    I feel like there's a bit of internalized biphobia in me that I so want to get rid of before telling anyone, and your words helped me immensely. Thank you ♥️

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +4

      Tamara W. You’re so very welcome. I still find unexpected bits of baggage to unpack. It’s a process, I think. I wish you the very best of everything along the way.

  • @ernie8430
    @ernie8430 Год назад +4

    Her voice is so calming and comforting

  • @jeffwooliscroft6600
    @jeffwooliscroft6600 4 года назад +16

    I am so pleased I found this. It's such a relief to hear my own truth, the one I'm fighting to be open about, spoken aloud and with such apparent confidence. And, for the record, I have a lot more grey in my hair than Misty Gedlinske does.
    Thank you Misty, from the very bottom of my heart.

  • @alexsmit5430
    @alexsmit5430 5 лет назад +74

    Thank you, this message is great, I needed to hear this.

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +4

      Alex Smit You’re welcome. I hope it helped.

  • @decraziness
    @decraziness 4 года назад +5

    I haven't been able to tell my family. I'm not ashamed of who I am and yet it's still hard to say the words. Great talk. She has a really good narrating voice. She can totally voice an audiobook

  • @ericrush3495
    @ericrush3495 4 года назад +8

    I have felt such peace since I accepted that I was bi and came out to my family. I love this

  • @alicewest9696
    @alicewest9696 4 года назад +5

    ok but she looks and sounds like that once in a lifetime likable english teacher

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +3

      I’m good with that assessment! I had some English teachers and Literature professors like that. All my best to you, Alice.

    • @jacobs1264
      @jacobs1264 4 года назад +2

      Misty Gedlinske I love how you still come to check the comments it’s amazing NV

    • @mysmirandam.6618
      @mysmirandam.6618 3 года назад

      Yep the one who really cares

  • @kennymun899
    @kennymun899 5 лет назад +19

    She has the most soothing voice. Does she do audiobooks?

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +7

      Kenny Mun I don’t, but if you’ve got contacts, have your people call my people. 😁

    • @qdee6250
      @qdee6250 4 года назад

      She sounds like the voiceover on desperate housewives. Martha I think.

  • @noelle3780
    @noelle3780 4 года назад +8

    You have no idea how deeply I wish this woman was my mother

  • @avaheckman6086
    @avaheckman6086 4 года назад +8

    Thanks you for letting me know that someone actually understands

  • @coppersense999
    @coppersense999 4 года назад +4

    Difference between privacy and secrecy. That's good.

  • @adailorrith807
    @adailorrith807 3 года назад +2

    Thank you so much! I really needed that.

  • @ashleymyers2779
    @ashleymyers2779 3 года назад +2

    I really needed this video tonight. Thank you

  • @Sander_los
    @Sander_los 5 лет назад +34

    What she is saying is so powerful, and no one could of said it better! Thank you so much for these words

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +6

      Sander Los You’re welcome. I’m glad you enjoyed it.

  • @andreaj.phillip8007
    @andreaj.phillip8007 5 лет назад +10

    I loved this, and felt this with every fiber of my being. I chose a partner, not a side, and doing so does not negate my identity in the least. She explained this so perfectly. I wish I had this video on hand whenever someone questioned me or disrespected me because of my orientation.

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 5 лет назад +2

      Andrea J. Riettie I’m glad you enjoyed this. Share it with whomever needs to see it with my compliments. You’re entirely valid and enough just as you are.

  • @dancarnell5938
    @dancarnell5938 4 года назад +5

    ‘I picked a partner, not a side.’ AMAZING

  • @eumelissasantos
    @eumelissasantos 4 года назад +1

    This video is everything!
    Thanks for that!

  • @jenjen_oreo
    @jenjen_oreo 4 года назад +5

    "The only person that you're obligated to save is you."
    Giving me chills when she said that. Truth in so many levels.

  • @donniedarkorequiem22
    @donniedarkorequiem22 4 года назад +5

    I’m crying. This is the logic I’ve been trying to articulate for years. She nailed it.

  • @axelbeckerbonn
    @axelbeckerbonn 4 года назад +2

    Thank you! This needs to be shared. Thank you!

  • @marianasidotiveva
    @marianasidotiveva 4 года назад +1

    This is exactly what I needed. Thank you, thank you so much.

  • @WitchyCharlie
    @WitchyCharlie 4 года назад +9

    Recommended reading: Leah on the Offbeat. The sequel to “Love Simon.”

    • @MistyGedlinske
      @MistyGedlinske 4 года назад +1

      Cheree Porter Thanks! I’ll have to check it out.

    • @CrescentPaws5000
      @CrescentPaws5000 4 года назад

      IT HAS A SEQUEL ooooooo I’m reading that now