Five of the Best: Dealing With Sexuality/Gender

It’s LGBTQ+ History Month in the UK, and here at TenEighty we never want to miss out on an occasion to celebrate our LGBTQ+ vloggers!

We understand, however, that sexuality can often be a hard topic to discuss, let alone come to terms with. For those of you in the midst of discovering who you are, or wishing to learn more about a whole scope of Queer orientations and identities, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite videos that deal with sexuality.

5. COMING OUT – BriBry

BriBry‘s never been one to shy away from issues deemed ‘taboo’ or ‘inappropriate,’ and this video is another example of him taking a stand. In it, he recites a poem written for his friend and fellow YouTuber Troye Sivan that is both beautiful and incredibly insightful.

BriBry has always had a way with words and this poem, simply titled Gay, will leave you considering the world we live in and how we can help change the misconceptions surrounding non-heterosexual sexuality.

4. Why do we care if Harry Styles is gay? – James Hill

There are a lot of LGBTQ+ stereotypes that most straight people believe are true. Often people think that because someone is gay they are likely to behave with certain characteristics. This, obviously, is not true. And when a media storm occurs over the possibility of Harry Styles being bisexual, Jimmy Hill is quick to ask why.

Sexuality doesn’t necessarily dictate someone’s personality and interests – in fact, it’s a very small part of who they are. As Jimmy’s quick to point out, it’s this mentality that’s behind bigotry and homophobia.

After questioning these stereotypes, he (along with us) is left wondering about society’s obsession with sexuality. Like Jimmy, we have to ask: why does it matter?

3. My Sexuality: Demisexual Coming Out – Evan Edinger

Sexuality is a wide spectrum that goes far beyond the ‘L’, the ‘G’, the ‘B’, the ‘T’ or the ‘Q’ in LGBTQ+. We should always remember the ‘+’ plus too. In this video, Evan Edinger speaks about being demisexual; when someone doesn’t develop sexual feelings toward another person until a deep and personal connection has been formed.

Just because you’re not sexually attracted to someone doesn’t mean you’re weird or strange. Yes, sex is pretty much on most people’s minds, but it doesn’t have to be the driving force in a relationship. Keep doing you. Some people might not like it, but we do and we think you’re pretty cool.

2. Coming Out – Mark Ludford

If you search ‘coming out’ on YouTube, you’re certain to come across multiple videos of YouTubers sharing their stories with their audience. For some, making a video about your sexuality can be cathartic.

To others, it can be daunting; simply thinking about sharing such an intimate part of your life can be scary. Either way, it’s still a brave thing to take on. Especially when you have an audience already established on YouTube.

With all this in mind, Mark Ludford‘s coming video is a must watch. In this video, Mark recounts how he came out to his family and friends and offers up advice for those who are thinking of doing the same.

He reminds his viewers to only come out when they feel they’re ready and though times might be tough at the moment, they will get better. As with the numerous YouTubers who have shared their stories online: if they can come out and lead happier lives then so can you.

1. TRANSGENDER COMING OUT GUIDE – Alex Bertie

Do you want to come out to your friends and/or family, but don’t know how? Don’t worry, Alex Bertie‘s got you covered. We know it can be hard to speak to those close to you about subjects regarding gender and sexuality, and so does Alex.

To help you out, he’s compiled a list of tips to help you educate and inform your loved ones, and it’s definitely one we recommend watching. This video particularly targets those who identify as transgender, however, most of the advice here can be applied to anyone on the LGBTQ+ scale.

It’s also a brilliant opportunity for those who aren’t as clued up on trans* issues to learn in what ways transgender coming out experiences may differ from lesbian, gay or bisexual ones.

Remember, be L.A.M.E. – listen, answer, myth bust and educate – and ensure you’re doing this for you and only you. Don’t let someone force you to do something you’re not yet ready to do.

So there you have it…

Five of the Best: Dealing With Sexuality/Gender. We hope these videos have offered some guidance, and if it wasn’t guidance you were looking for, maybe you’ve learnt a thing or two you didn’t know before. Let us know what you thought of our choices by shooting us a tweet at @TenEightyUK.

Missed any of our LGBTQ+ History Month coverage? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered:

For updates follow @TenEightyUK on Twitter or TenEighty UK on Facebook.