When is Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week 2023 and what does it mean?
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Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week is an annual event that takes place in February to celebrate and raise awareness of aromanticism. Aromanticism is a romantic orientation characterised by a lack of interest in romantic relationships. During Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week, people of all gender identities, orientations, and backgrounds come together to celebrate aromanticism and raise awareness of the aromantic spectrum.
During the week, aromantic individuals and allies participate in a variety of activities such as online discussions, social media campaigns, and educational events. The week also serves as a platform for aromantic individuals to share their stories and experiences. Additionally, organisations like the Aromantic Alliance, Aromantic Visibility and Education Network, and Arospec offer resources, events, and support for aromantic individuals.
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Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week is an important event for raising awareness about aromanticism and creating a space for aromantic individuals to feel seen, heard, and accepted. By recognizing and celebrating aromanticism, we can create a more inclusive and understanding society for all.
What does aromantic mean?
Aromantic is a term used to describe someone who does not experience romantic attraction. Aromantic people can still form close bonds, however these are usually platonic in nature.
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Aromantic people may still experience sexual attraction and may still engage in sexual activity, but this is not a requirement to identify as aromantic. People who identify as aromantic may still want close platonic relationships, such as friendships and family relationships, without the expectation of romance. Aromantic people may also identify as any sexual orientation or gender identity.
When is Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week 2023?
Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week generally occurs the first full week (starting Sunday) following Valentine’s Day; it began in large part as a way for those in the aromantic community who had difficulty finding space for their experiences in such a universally romanticised event to come together and celebrate their own unique experiences.
In 2023, Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week is celebrated from 19–25 February 2023.
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How did Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week first start off?
Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week was created in 2014 to raise awareness and celebrate aromantic identities, as well as increase visibility and understanding of aromanticism within the LGBTQ+ community.
This week was first recognised from 10–17 November 2014, under the name “Aromantic Awareness Week”.
In 2015, it was moved to late February, and the name was changed to “Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week” to be more specifically inclusive of all arospec identities.
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The event has grown significantly since its inception, and is now celebrated around the world. For many people, Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week is an important time to connect with others and celebrate their aromantic identity.
What is the significance of Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week?
Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week is an important annual event that seeks to raise awareness of the aromantic spectrum, a term used to refer to a diverse and complex range of romantic orientations and relationship styles. This week is an opportunity to celebrate aromantic identities and foster understanding of the aromantic spectrum.
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The aromantic spectrum includes people who do not experience romantic attraction, as well as those who do but in varying degrees or in different ways. It also includes people who may identify as both aromantic and romantic, and those who may identify as neither.
Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week provides an opportunity for aromantic people to come together and celebrate their diversity, as well as to raise awareness of the aromantic spectrum among the wider public.
The aromantic spectrum is often misunderstood and overlooked in mainstream conversations about gender and sexuality. Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week helps to bring aromantic identities and experiences into the spotlight, making them more visible and helping to foster acceptance and understanding. It also helps to create a sense of community and solidarity among aromantic people, who may often feel isolated and invisible in a world that largely focuses on romantic relationships.
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During Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week, many events are held to celebrate and promote awareness. This includes online and in-person conferences, workshops, and lectures. There are also social media campaigns, online discussions, and live events to create visibility and foster a sense of community.
In addition, there are often fundraisers and donation drives to support organisations and charities that provide services to aromantic people and those on the aromantic spectrum. These can include mental health resources, education, and advocacy.
Other relevant LGBTQ+ awareness days
In addition to Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week, there are many other LGBTQ+ awareness periods throughout the year. These days help to raise awareness of the LGBTQ+ community and fight discrimination.
Check out these other relevant LGBTQ+ awareness days:
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