Here’s my first voice note for this newsletter where I share my experiences with judgment and misconceptions around non-monogamy. I discussed losing friends who assumed I would disrespect their monogamous relationship boundaries based on my open status. Despite my ethical approach, I've faced suspicion even from curious questioners who later avoided me so that their partner wouldn’t get ideas about opening their relationship. And I described the intense reaction of a couple breaking up simply after exposure to me as a happily non-monogamous person.
In addition to stigma, as an Asian woman I deal with excessive sexualization compounded by the false perception that non-monogamy equals promiscuity. Like the guy who immediately propositioned me using unfair assumptions about my consent. While non-monogamy isn't for everyone, these stories illustrate the persistent biases people who live openly face. I’m also realizing now after recording there was more I wanted to include about about the perception I am not in a committed, loving relationship because of the open structure of my relationship. I want to encourage thoughtful dialogue to drive consensual non-monogamy's acceptance. Everyone, regardless of relationship structure, deserves to live without judgment or attack. My vulnerability sharing these experiences hopefully furthers that goal by countering assumptions with some real, human stories.
I have so many posts coming your way this year! Thanks for supporting.
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