Does anyone else feel increasingly unwelcome in some lesbian spaces as a bi woman?

I’ve been reflecting on a discussion I recently had in a lesbian space, and honestly, I’m left feeling a little sad.

I completely understand why some lesbians choose to date only other lesbians. Everyone has a right to their own boundaries and preferences, especially when those boundaries come from lived experience.

At the same time, as a bisexual/nonbinary femme, it can sometimes feel like I’m viewed with suspicion before I’ve even had a chance to show who I am. I’ve never cheated on a partner, I’ve been capable of commitment regardless of gender, and I care deeply about women and queer relationships. Yet sometimes I feel like my bisexuality is treated as a warning sign rather than just one aspect of who I am.

I don’t think lesbians owe bisexual people dates, attraction, or access to their spaces. But I do sometimes wonder if other bi people have felt like there’s growing distance or mistrust between bisexual women and lesbians online.

Has anyone else experienced this? How do you navigate it without becoming defensive or bitter?