Growing up in Bolivia, where traditional gender roles and heteronormativity often dominate, discovering my bisexuality felt like finding a hidden world. For the longest time, I felt out of place and disconnected from the strict binary norms that governed society. It wasn’t until I met others who defied these norms that my understanding began to really change. Meeting people who expressed their gender and sexuality in ways that I had never imagined was eye-opening, and I realized that there were more ways to exist outside the binary.
La Paz, with its bustling markets in El Prado and the serene views of the surrounding mountains, became the backdrop for a realization that changed everything. This city, the political heart of Bolivia, is where LGBT marches have been held for years, creating a relatively open environment. Yet, navigating life as a bi and non-binary individual in Bolivia remained complex. Stigmatization was rampant, both within the LGBT community and beyond. Visibility was crucial, yet it came with misunderstandings, especially from family members who struggled to understand the concept of bisexuality and non-binary identity.
Artistic expression became a vital outlet for my bisexuality. Engaging in various art forms — photo performances, documentaries, photography, and graphic design — was a way to resist societal norms and promote LGBT visibility. Collaborating with collectives like "Maricas Bolivia," known for their groundbreaking radio program and community work, was instrumental in challenging societal norms. One of their iconic acts was the "Beso Marica de Bolivia," a powerful street performance in La Paz featuring indigenous attire, symbolizing the intersection of cultural heritage and LGBT identity.
Through my art, I met many other bi individuals who shared similar struggles and triumphs. I remember one particular exhibit where my photography was displayed alongside other bi artists. The sense of community was palpable as we shared our stories and experiences. We bonded over our mutual love for art and the freedom it provided us to express our true selves. These connections were invaluable, offering support and understanding in a world that often seemed dismissive or hostile.
However, the most significant and hopeful experience on this journey was my visit to Laguna de Colores. I had already gone to visit the Laguna several times, however, this visit came at a pivotal time for me. After talking with friends for some time, thinking over my romantic experiences so far, the term “bisexual” just seemed to describe me perfectly.
This stunning natural wonder, with its vibrant, shifting hues, felt like a perfect metaphor for bisexuality. Just as the lagoon changes colors, my understanding of my identity evolved and deepened over time. Standing there, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature, I felt a profound connection to my bisexuality. It was a reminder that, like the lagoon, our identities are fluid, multifaceted, and beautiful in their complexity.
Laguna de Colores is located in the altiplano, a high plateau surrounded by majestic mountains. The lagoon itself is a marvel, its waters reflecting different shades depending on the time of day and the minerals present. It felt as if the lagoon was alive, constantly transforming, much like my self-discovery. Here, in this serene and ever-changing landscape, I saw a reflection of myself — vibrant, and unapologetically complex. The capacity to love and be attracted to people of various genders is a beautiful aspect of humanity, offering a richness that not everyone experiences.
As I stood by the water's edge, I could feel the weight of societal expectations and judgments lift off my shoulders. The ever-changing colors of the lagoon were a reminder that it was okay to be different, to embrace all parts of myself without fear or shame. I spent hours just sitting there, watching the colors shift with the changing light, feeling a deep sense of peace and acceptance wash over me. It was a transformative experience, one that solidified my resolve to live authentically and proudly, no matter the challenges I might face.
Ultimately, it was in the colors of Laguna de Colores that I found a reflection of myself — ever-changing, vibrant, and unapologetically complex. This journey is far from over, but with each step, I become more confident and proud of who I am. Embracing my bisexuality has not only been a personal triumph but also a political act, advocating for visibility and acceptance. Through art, activism, and community support, my path to acceptance and visibility for bi individuals in Bolivia continues to unfold.