Sunday, October 13, 2002

Comings and Goings

In the next few weeks Sydney is going to be the focus of the world for the Gay Games being held in November. Assorted international visitors are heading our way and Sydney is in for at least two weeks of major parties and celebrations.

But what does the Gay games actually mean and what will it do for us? Well I decided to first off visit the official gay games site for sydney 2002 http://www.sydney2002.org.au to have a look at what they have to say for themselves, but for the life of me all I could work out is that they want you to spend money and become a "Friend of the Games".

As far as I can tell the Gay Games is to promote equality and healthy pursuits such as sports and is open to all people regardless of their sexuality. The first bit is great, but wait a sec, regardless of their sexuality? So that doesn't really make it the Gay Games it just makes it another event.

Or does it?

The whole gay rights campaigning of equality is important, for all of us. As gays and lesbians we don't want special rights we just want the same rights that everyone else takes for granted. But there is a problem with the logic of openoing events such as this to everyone (regardless of their sexuality). If we are promoting the event as everyone welcome, then why is it called the Gay Games. Shouldn't it be called the "Anything Sexuality Games"?.

It might sound divisive to suggest that Gay venues, clubs, events etc should be just that Gay and Lesbian with a focus on providing safe areas for gays and lesbians. While there is still inequality and gays and lesbians are abused physically, verbally and legally by some members of the community there is a need for safe gay places and events.

Part of the role of the community is to provide support and advice for people and one of these things is to provide support and advice for people coming out. It is the singuarly most difficult experience that serves to show the difference between straight and gay people. And this is probably one of the greatest things that the community can help and support us through.

So the point is yeah the gay ames are going to be great fun, but shouldn't we accept that again the gay community is kind of getting it wrong.