Cynthia Nixon Says Being Bisexual "Is Not A Choice"

In the wake of her comments to the New York Times that being gay was a choice, Cynthia Nixon released a statement to clear up any confusion:

"My recent comments in The New York Times were about me and my personal story of being gay. I believe we all have different ways we came to the gay community and we can't and shouldn't be pigeon-holed into one cultural narrative which can be uninclusive and disempowering. However, to the extent that anyone wishes to interpret my words in a strictly legal context I would like to clarify:

"While I don't often use the word, the technically precise term for my orientation is bisexual. I believe bisexuality is not a choice, it is a fact. What I have 'chosen' is to be in a gay relationship.

"As I said in the Times and will say again here, I do, however, believe that most members of our community — as well as the majority of heterosexuals — cannot and do not choose the gender of the persons with whom they seek to have intimate relationships because, unlike me, they are only attracted to one sex.

"Our community is not a monolith, thank goodness, any more than America itself is. I look forward to and will continue to work toward the day when America recognizes all of us as full and equal citizens."

On one hand, it feels a bit sad that she had to release a statement to declare her sexuality, because I think anyone who really examined her earlier comments could come to a similar conclusion. Consenting adults shouldn't have to defend or define their relationships. Then again, putting this out will most likely stop any bigots from twisting her words or using her as an example of someone who "chose this wicked lifestyle." In the end it's a clash between idealistic dreams and political reality.