Interview by Lejla Delalić
Barbara Oud (she/her) is executive director of Bi+ Nederland, the Dutch organization for bi+ people & bi+ inclusion. She is also director of Bi+ Equal, the project that works towards a European bi+ umbrella organization. Barbara , 34, is passionate about working on bi+ equality. Sheives near Amsterdam, is part of a blended family, and is a once-a-week-yoga-lover.
Lejla: The last time you were featured in Bi Women Quarterly was in the Winter 2017 issue. You discussed the fallout from being featured in a well-known Dutch magazine as an out bi+ woman. Have perceptions changed since then at all and, if so, how have people viewed you after being publicly out for seven years?
Barbara: It’s hard to believe it’s been seven years! Back then, I was appointed as a program manager at EuroBiCon—a European conference on bisexuality—which introduced me to the field of bi+ equality. I had no idea what I was doing, but hosting that event was transformative. I connected with many people and began collaborating with them, solidifying my commitment to this work.
With a few others in the Netherlands, we decided to continue the network we had formed. What started as a six-evening think tank discussion on bisexuality blossomed into something much larger. We eventually decided to formalize our efforts, leading to the creation of an official non-governmental organization (NGO), Bi+ Nederland. In a twist of fate, that discussion about our organization coincided with my going into labor! Two weeks later, as I was breastfeeding my daughter, we discussed our organizational structure at my kitchen table. Now, both my daughter and the organization are the same age—a fun and key reminder that whenever something goes sideways, that both are still growing and learning.
Over the past five years, we’ve built alliances with other LGBTI organizations in the Netherlands, and we recently launched a project called Bi+ Equal in collaboration with Spectrum, a French eco-feminist organization. Our goal is to create a European bi+ umbrella organization, similar to the International Gay and Lesbian Association (ILGA) and others. We want to organize by the bi+ community, for the bi+ community.
Lejla: Congratulations on both births—,of your daughter and the organization! I appreciate how your organization embraces inclusivity, viewing issues from multiple perspectives. That seems crucial for solidarity and community building.
Barbara: Absolutely! There’s a significant overlap between the bi+ and trans communities, and it’s essential to address these issues together. We also include those who identify as pansexual or anyone attracted to multiple genders who may not want a strict label for various reasons—which is exactly why the organization carries the “bi+” identifier. Recent statistics show that of the 2.7 million LGBTI individuals in the Netherlands, 1.7 million are bi+. This data emphasizes the importance of recognizing attraction rather than just identity labels. For a long time, I felt uncomfortable labeling myself as a bi woman, having had no romantic or sexual experiences with women. I later learned, with the help of a graphic model, that sexual orientation is shaped by attraction, behavior, and self-labeling, which aided me in understanding my own experience.
Lejla: It seems that while the bi+ community represents a significant portion of the queer population, funding for bi+ issues remains limited. Is that a challenge you’re facing with your organization?
Barbara: Yes, it’s frustrating that the bi+ community, despite being the largest under the LGBTIQA+ umbrella, is often the least funded. Many organizations lack secure funding and resources but still strive to improve the lives of queer individuals. I deeply admire the efforts they put into their work despite all challenges. However, Bi+ Nederland is fortunate to have government funding, which allows us to focus specifically on bi+ equality, but in the end that funding is not enough to meet our goals.
Lejla: Bi+ Nederland and Bi Women Quarterly—specifically, our editor Robyn—partnered to promote the Bi+ World Meetup. Can you share more about this initiative and its significance?
Barbara: In 2020, we planned to organize the first Bi+ Day in the Netherlands, but then COVID-19 hit. We adapted by hosting an online workshop with Robyn, which was a huge success. This led to the ongoing Bi+ World Meetups, where we connect people globally. Despite time zone challenges, the energy from these gatherings is infectious. Hearing diverse stories creates deep connection and understanding, making the experience heartwarming, and allowing people to be more open. I never tire of these meetups and seeing familiar or new faces; there’s always something exciting and meaningful to be shared.
The annual Amsterdam Pride Canal Parade is held on the first Saturday of August. Barbara is in the center of the boat, waving. This photo is from 2023.
Lejla: You once mentioned that as an activist, you stand on the shoulders of giants in the bi+ and queer rights movements. Who do you consider a standout figure in this field?
Barbara: Robyn Ochs introduced me to bi+ themes, while I was still insecure in this field, through her book, which I found at a feminist bookstore. Meeting her at EuroBiCon in 2016 was a significant moment for me. I also want to highlight Hilde Vossen, who has been instrumental in building a network of bi+ individuals across Europe. She co-founded Bi+ Nederland and has dedicated her life to nurturing a sense of community for bi+ people. Her tireless efforts inspire me and many others in the movement.
Lejla: What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned that you’d like to pass on to your daughters or young volunteers in your organization?
Barbara: That’s a difficult question. Working with a diverse group brings challenges, but it also shows the immense power of community. While we face our own struggles, other parts of the world experience far greater dangers for advocating equality. It’s crucial to recognize the strength within our community, even when things get tough. There are many compassionate individuals striving to create a better world. We should be like them.
Lejla: Who has been an important mentor or teacher in your life, particularly regarding your identity?
Barbara: Jantine van Lisdonk, a co-founder of Bi+ Nederland, has been my guiding light. Her strategic thinking and kindness have helped shape our organization. Whenever I encounter challenges, she provides clarity and direction. Working alongside her has been a transformative experience.
Lejla: What motivates you to continue your work, inspire others and be a mentor or a teacher yourself?
Barbara: I strive to be a positive role model for those in this field and beyond. Each day, I remind myself of the importance of my work, especially in showing my children that it’s okay to be true to oneself and love who you love.
Lejla Delalić is a 25-year-old bisexual woman from Bosnia and Herzegovina, working in biology and genetics. She is driven by a deep sense of purpose to challenge injustice, inspired by the strong, resilient women who have shaped her path.