The queer community represents people from all different walks of life — regardless of color, gender, sexuality, age, religion, nationality, or ethnicity — but not every group gets the same amount of attention. It’s no secret that the community tends to focus on white, cis gays and lesbians, despite all those other letters in our acronym. As a model, writer, and activist, Yasmin Benoit has been working to shed light on her community.

By late 2017, Yasmin had amassed a large Instagram following and decided to mention that she was asexual — something she did not expect anyone to care about.

Yasmin coined the Instagram hashtag #thisiswhatasexualitylookslike and it grew into a movement. There are now over 5000 posts under the hashtag, with a rich diversity of asexual faces and stories. She started the hashtag to create a resource for people who “don’t look asexual,” to demonstrate the diversity of the community. Yasmin has grown into an ace icon, frequently writing for publications, public speaking, and even appearing on MTV. Yasmin has become the aro-ace icon she deserved as a kid.

🌈 About Gaygenda Magazine

Each issue of Gaygenda magazine strives to share important news of the moment and to showcase movers and shakers in our wonderfully vibrant community. Every word in this issue comes from a team of diverse writers and editors who dedicate their time to curating an engaging and worthwhile read.

We hope that you enjoy our second issue, GM002, and make sure to send us your feedback!