Pacer Pillowtalk: The asexual umbrella
Asexuality is an often overlooked part of the LGBTQ+ label.
While some asexual individuals may not experience sexual attraction, there is more to the identity than that. This is often referred to as the “asexual umbrella.”
This collection of labels includes aromantics, demisexuals, graysexuals and asexuals.
Aromantic individuals do not experience romantic attraction or desire a relationship. This does not, however, mean that all aromantic individuals are asexual. Some may still experience sexual interest or desire but do not pursue romantic relationships. Aromantic and asexual individuals sometimes form partnerships with others, where the co-living experience occurs without romantic ties. Platonic relationships may hold a greater emotional value than romantic or sexual ones.
Demisexuals are individuals who may only experience sexual attraction or sexual desire after forming a strong emotional relationship with another individual. These individuals may indulge in romantic pursuits, as many asexuals do.
Graysexuality, also spelled greysexuality, refers to someone who may sometimes experience sexual attraction or desire. For the individual, this may be a rare, unique occurrence.
Asexuality is just as valid as any other sexuality and should be discussed as it does belong in the community. Additionally, the stigma of lacking fulfilled relationships should be challenged, as this notion discredits emotional depths beyond romance and desire, as well as non-monogamous, “stereotypical” relational structures.
The spectrum of sexuality explores all avenues of emotional needs and desires, and the disinterest or complete lack of romantic or sexual impulses is fluid, too. The asexual umbrella accounts for fluidity in desire, even the complete lack of it.
