Pansexuals are often misunderstood and judged because of their orientation. Many people just don't understand what it means to be pansexual. People sometimes make rude or ignorant remarks about pansexuality. Let's take a look at some of those comments and see why they shouldn't be said.
"Does that mean you're attracted to pans?": Yes, they have a sexual attraction to kitchenware. That was sarcasm, in case you're wondering. No, they aren't attracted to pots and pans. The prefix "pan-" means "all". So, people who are pansexual are attracted to people of all kinds of genders.
"Pansexuals are attracted to everyone.": That's not true either. In fact, that just sounds exhausting! Being attracted to everyone you see would just be draining. And a bit creepy too. Being pansexual means you are attracted to people despite their gender.
"Pansexual is just a fancier term for bisexual.": No, there is a clear difference between the two. Pansexuality means a person can be attracted to a someone of any gender. Bisexuality means that a person can be attracted to people of only two genders. There's a huge difference between two and all.
"Pansexuals need to make up their minds.": Pansexuals don't have to make up their minds on anything. They're fine just the way they are.
"Pansexuals are greedy.": How are they greedy? In fact, their quite the opposite. They're sharing their love with everyone. But seriously, their not stealing partners from people and hoarding them. That's really difficult to do and you'll probably get charged with unlawful detainment if you try it.
"They're so promiscuous.": Really? Just because someone is attracted to people of all genders doesn't mean they're sleeping around. Sexuality is a matter of who you're attracted to. It has nothing to do with how often you have sex. And if they are having lots of sex, who cares? It's none of your damn business what people do in the bedroom.
"It's just a phase. You'll grow out of it": Yeah, that's not how sexuality works. It tends to stay with you your entire life. I don't think life is "just a phase". Their sexuality isn't going away anytime soon. You need to get used to the fact that people can feel this way.
Sorry it's been so long since my last post. I've been away for a while, but now I'm back! If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or suggestions please leave them in the comments section below. I hope you liked what you read. If you want to read more from this series, click the link at the top of the page titled "Shit People Say: A Series".
Lots of love,
Nick
