Obstacles

So, with exams last week I didn't get a post up, but I did round out this first semester with a 94 average! Yay!

Now, we'll get to the point of this post, obstacles.

I've come across one major obstacle with this project: the lack of information out there on asexuality. And the information that is available is mainly on how to 'fix' asexuality, which makes for illegible rants and blog posts.

I've reached out to my school counselor and my school health teacher to see if they can help me out, but there is precious little true information on asexuality out there. I aim to work on changing this, which is why I will be compiling a page of resources on asexuality, so people researching it will not have as much trouble as I am having. I'm attempting to clear a little path in this jungle. And interestingly enough Tumblr has been a pretty good place to go for information.

The sheer number of medical articles on 'fixing' asexuality is very discouraging, yet I also find it makes this blog more of a challenge. I get to climb bigger mountains and conquer bigger obstacles, I find myself enjoying the challenges that are arising.

Smaller obstacles have been that it took longer than I thought to set up a website, also, my school's wifi does not allow me to access Blogger. I've been typing them in Google docs or posting them through the mobile app.

Thanks for reading! Comments, questions, and feedback are always appreciated.

The Asexual Spectrum

So, I originally wanted to title this All the Aces, but I thought that this would fit better.

  This is a list of everyone under the ace umbrella, or spectrum, whichever term you prefer. I will be writing another post on the romantic side of things. But before we begin I have a few terms to sort out:

Sexual drive- also known as libido, is wanting someone to touch you.

Sexual attraction- is wanting that person to touch you.

Romantic attraction- is wanting a romantic relationship with that person.

Celibacy- the choice to not participate in sexual activities, often until marriage.

  These are very brief, I hope to post a full post on each sexuality, but I'm still learning myself. Now, we will move on to business:

  Asexual

Not experiencing sexual attraction at all. This sexuality is typically used as an umbrella term for everyone on the asexual spectrum. Often shortened to 'ace'.

Source: Asexuality Archive

The ace pride flag, personally I think it's the prettiest, but I'm biased.

 Cupiosexual

Not experiencing sexual attraction, but still desiring a sexual relationship. This used to be known as 'kalossexual' but there were issues with that name, so it was changed. Often shortened to 'cupio'. I can't seem to find a pride flag for this one, if you find one tell me and I'll add it!

  Demisexual

Experiencing sexual attraction after a deep emotional or romantic bond has formed. Often shortened to 'demi'.

Source: Wikimedia

The demi pride flag, I like the triangle, it's different.

  Grey-asexual

Occasionally feeling sexual attraction, often at such low levels that it is ignorable or unnoticed. Shortened to either 'grey' or 'grey-ace'. I can't seem to find a pride flag for this one either, but if you find one please tell me and I'll include it!

  Lithsexual/Akiosexual

Experiencing sexual attraction, but having no desire for those feelings to be reciprocated. This one has two names because there are issues of appropriation with the use of 'lithsexual', so many prefer 'akiosexual'. Usually shortened to 'akio'.

Source: Tumblr user Mogai-Library

The akio pride flag, I also like this one, it's fiery and warm.

  All these sexualities are valid and the asexual community belongs in the LGBT+ community, though sadly may people everywhere believe us to be straight or heterosexual, and that we are choosing celibacy. Since, you know, asexuality and the ace spectrum doesn't exist, erasure and all that fun stuff. But that 'A' is not just for allies though, it is also for asexuals, aromantics, and agender people. Allies are included, but we and the rest of the 'a's cannot be erased to make the 'A' just for allies.

  Sexuality is fluid and you may find yours changing and that's okay, sexuality and gender are not concrete boxes or cages to keep you until you die. I am always here if you need or want to talk, my contact info is in my 'about me' post.

  Well, I hope this post helps you learn about the ace spectrum and maybe helps you learn about your own sexuality or that of someone you know.

  I believe this is everyone on the asexual spectrum, if I've missed one or more don't be shy to let me know. Thanks for reading, comments, questions, and feedback are appreciated!

 

About Me

  My name is Rebecca Gould, I'm almost seventeen, and I'm starting this blog to raise awareness and answer questions about asexuality. This blog is an English project, I will be working on it for at least three months and I hope to continue with it after that period.

  I am Canadian-American and I have dual citizenship, I was born in the U.S, but I moved up to Canada in early 2015. And can I just say that Canada is infinitely better than the US?

  I'm a writer-artist-musician and I plan to travel the world. I'm passionate about rights and the voices of people's. I love words, languages, and food. I am currently obsessed with Hamilton and The Mortal Instruments, and as my family and friends can attest: when I am obsessed I never shut up. Forgivesies? I'm panromantic asexual and a 5'2" ball of passion and rage, which spills into my writing. Of which I have hundreds of pages, sometimes I swear my blood is actually ink, though I often question my command of the English language and wonder how I am a writer.

  The face behind the blog:

  

The fabulous moi.

 
  So now you've met me, I hope you will continue on this journey of sorts with me, I would appreciate any feedback, comments, and questions you may have.

  If you ever want or need to talk, feel free to message me on tumblr, at acequeenn. If you have my phone number, email, or follow me on Facebook, message me anytime.