What Does It Mean To Be Aroace? A Growing LGBTQ+ Identity Explained
What Does It Mean To Be Aroace? A Growing LGBTQ+ Identity Explained...
Interest in the term "aroace" has surged in the U.S. this week, with Google Trends data showing a 300% increase in searches. The label, short for aromantic asexual, describes individuals who experience little to no romantic or sexual attraction. As LGBTQ+ awareness grows, more people are exploring lesser-known identities like aroace.
The aroace identity combines two distinct orientations: aromanticism (lack of romantic attraction) and asexuality (lack of sexual attraction). While these can exist separately, many people identify with both. The term has gained visibility through social media platforms like TikTok, where creators share personal experiences under hashtags like #AroAceWeek.
This week's spike in interest coincides with increased LGBTQ+ discourse following several state legislative battles over gender identity and sexuality education. Advocacy groups like The Asexual Visibility and Education Network (AVEN) report more visitors to their resources about aromantic and asexual spectrums.
The aroace community has its own flag—a sunset-themed design with orange, yellow, white, light blue, and dark blue stripes. Created in 2021 by Tumblr user @aroaesflags, it symbolizes the diversity of aroace experiences. Many pride events now include this flag alongside more familiar LGBTQ+ symbols.
Mental health professionals note that understanding these identities can reduce isolation. "When people find language that fits their experience, it's profoundly validating," says Dr. Emily Prior, a psychologist specializing in LGBTQ+ issues. However, some aroace individuals still face skepticism about their orientation being "real."
Major organizations are taking notice. Last month, the Human Rights Campaign added aroace resources to its website. Meanwhile, dating apps like OkCupid now include aromantic and asexual orientation options. This visibility helps combat the misconception that everyone desires romantic or sexual relationships.
For those questioning whether they might be aroace, experts suggest exploring community spaces like the Arocalypse forum or reading works by aroace authors. As societal understanding expands, this once-overlooked identity is finally getting recognition in the broader LGBTQ+ conversation.
