Bear Community
A part of the queer community composed of queer men similar in looks and interests, most of them big, hairy, friendly and affectionate. The community aims to provide spaces where one feels wanted, desired, and liked. It nourishes and values an individual’s process of making friends, of learning self-care and self-love through the unity and support of the community. Bears, Cubs, Otters, Wolves, Chasers, Admirers and other wildlife comprise what has come to be known as the Brotherhood of Bears and/or the Bear community.
The Bear community is a subculture within the broader LGBTQ+ community that typically includes gay and bisexual men who are characterized by a physical appearance that embraces body hair, larger body types, and a more rugged or masculine presentation. The Bear community places value on a diverse range of body types and rejects mainstream societal standards of beauty.
Members of the Bear community often come together through social events, gatherings, and online platforms to connect, share common interests, and build a sense of community. There is no strict definition or set of criteria for being a part of the Bear community, as it is more about self-identification and shared values rather than specific physical attributes.
Examples of events within the Bear community include Bear runs, Bear conventions, and social gatherings at gay bars. Some individuals may also use specific terms like "cubs" to refer to younger or less hairy members of the community, adding further nuance to the subculture.
It's important to note that the Bear community is diverse and inclusive, and individuals within it may identify with various aspects of the LGBTQ+ spectrum. Additionally, the Bear community values body positivity and inclusivity, fostering a sense of acceptance for individuals with different body types and appearances.
