Among the more anachronistic relics of the gay liberation period is the Pride Parade. ... The far left accuses the opters-out of being racist. Nah. They're just bored. And faintly embarrassed. -AS
Discriminated against because of their sexuality, gays and lesbians march in NYC's Pride 2007 and 'show it off'. The often garish celebration makes many gays and non-gays squeamish, either because they don't understand or they would rather ... have more decorum on the road to Freedom?So far as I know, NYC has never had a "Pride Parade" - it's always been a "March". This is part of the problem with those who came through the 'liberation period', with barely feigned 'embarrassment' ... I suspect there are any number, too, who, despite all their crying about who is or isn't "out" that might be in the public eye, most likely never stepped out into fifth avenue themselves. For many, being part of the March was a step in their personal journey. Those who never did it, or who think they got the same elsewhere, have only half-truth.
As for the here and now, I think AS wrote in one of his "End of Gay Culture" pieces that he was rather ambiguous about it all. Perhaps that means he hasn't listed the benefits of 'gay culture' or, just as likely, has a blind spot for being embarrassed by it? Besides, what is p-town, except a vestige of 'gay culture', of homophobia really? It was clearly a place of seclusion, the furthermost point, just like many other spots, sought for obvious benefits of ... being out of sight. Why go hours and hours through what is now blistering cape traffic to be in this particular point? How is that so much different than Gay Pride?
Frankly, I just have to laugh at all those who get squirmy because their 'gayness' suddenly associates them with a bunch of people who they find ... unattractive. You know, THOSE people. Even moreso for those who complain that the March doesn't represent them, but then they stay out, ensuring further lack of representation, so that they can pour drinks for 'the select' from the rooftop or the balcony or write snidely from the sidelines. The "boredom" of these folks is actually sidelining the importance of fraternity and sorority within the LGBT community. Sure, one can postulate that 'the world' is post-gay and it's not needed, but I think that's short-sighted. Unlike Andrew, I firmly believe in culture centers and cultural touchstones.
Truly, if I had to pick one thing that was great socially about being gay, it would probably be the vast array of people who I would have never, ever have met in other circumstances. I LOVE the diversity of the gay community and the fact that I have this weired, intangible bond to so many people on such terms.
See also:
Religious groups take lead for gay pride
Center may make Chicago gay destination
