July 4, 2024
Have you ever wondered why bi+ activism often feels like an afterthought, even within the LGBTQ+ movement? That’s exactly what the founders of Bi+ Platform asked themselves. For years, bi+ issues have been overlooked, and in places like Russia, where LGBTQ+ rights are already under attack, the situation is even more dire.
But this group of passionate activists decided to change that.
How It All Started
Nadja Arontschik (she/her), one of the co-directors of Bi+ Platform, has been involved in bi+ activism since 2019. Over time, she and other founding members realized a critical gap: bi+ individuals and their issues were practically invisible, even within queer spaces.
The team behind Bi+ Platform comes with a wealth of experience—managing projects, co-founding initiatives, running social media—but they wanted to do more than just keep doing what they knew. They wanted to create something that could sustain bi+ activism, help others start their own initiatives, and provide support to those who dared to take that first step, no matter how small or underground.
And so, in 2023, Bi+ Platform was born.
What Is Bi+ Platform All About?
Bi+ Platform is a safe, mostly virtual space for Russian-speaking bi+ individuals and activists to connect, learn, and grow. Its core mission is to make bi+ activism sustainable while increasing visibility for non-monosexual people.
Operating mainly online due to security concerns, the platform provides:
Breaking Down Barriers
Creating and running Bi+ Platform hasn’t been easy. Let’s face it—working on queer issues in a place like Russia is hard enough, and focusing on bi+ topics adds another layer of complexity.
First of all, bi+ activism is still a relatively unaccepted concept in many places even within LGBTQI+ communities. "Why do you even exist?" is a question Nadja and her team have encountered that often. Add to that restrictive laws, limited funding, and team members spread across different countries they have got a challenging road ahead.
But here is the thing: the team at Bi+ Platform doesn’t give up. They’ve made it their mission to work with what they have. They operate through closed channels to ensure safety, partner with other organizations to get their message out, and keep pushing for bi+ inclusivity—even when it feels like an uphill battle.
Bi+ Platform’s Approach
One of the most exciting things about Bi+ Platform is its participatory approach. Instead of telling people what they should do, the team listens. They talk to activists, organizations, and communities about their needs and challenges, then tailor their workshops and resources accordingly.
For example, they recently ran a workshop on myths, jokes and stereotypes about bisexuality—because someone specifically requested it. They’ve also organized broader events covering topics like bi+ activism, creativity, and discrimination.
And when they see gaps, they step in to fill them. For instance, many people expressed frustration about the lack of bi+ organizations or communities to engage with. So, Bi+ Platform started connecting groups and individuals virtually, creating a sense of belonging where none existed before.
Change Starts from Within
One of the most striking insights from Bi+ Platform’s work is this: real change happens when there’s someone on the inside advocating for it.
When the team reaches out to LGBTQ+ organizations, the reactions vary. Some are eager to collaborate, recognizing the importance of addressing bi+ erasure. Others agree in principle but struggle to take meaningful action.
From their experience, organizations that successfully adopt bi+ inclusive practices usually have a bi+ person on their team—or better yet, in a decision-making position. These internal advocates push for the necessary conversations, drive policy changes, and ensure that bi+ voices are heard. “It’s much easier to achieve change when there’s someone within the organization who understands bi+ issues,” Nadja shared.
Their approach to collaboration emphasizes ongoing dialogue. Even if change is slow, they believe in staying persistent, raising the topic again and again, and creating opportunities for change to happen.
What’s Next for Bi+ Platform?
Despite the challenges, Bi+ Platform has big plans. They’re preparing an informational campaign in 2025 to raise awareness about all aspects of bisexuality. They’re also expanding their network, refining their governance structure, and working toward making bi+ inclusivity a standard across Russian-speaking LGBTQ+ organizations.
Looking ahead, their vision is bold but clear:
Why Their Work Matters and How to Connect
Bi+ Platform’s story isn’t just about one organization—it’s about resilience, creativity, and the power of community. They’ve turned personal experiences into collective action, and in doing so, they’ve paved the way for others to follow.
If you’re curious to learn more, connect with them, or support their work, here’s how you can reach them:
The Bi+ Platform’s hub: https://biplusplatform.org/
The Bi+ Platform’s Telegram channel: https://t.me/biplusplatform
