Outgames - Breeding Intolerance and Exclusivity
I don't mean to continually dog the homosexual lifestyle . . . but this has been getting at my goat for quite a while now and I feel that I need to vent. How can we have a discussion about accepting one another and being part of the same community when we develop exclusive or reclusive events like the Outgames?? Are the Olympics or Commonwealth Games just for straights?? Do we get to develop our own Ingames?? Of course not, because that would be unconstitutional or too exclusive for other groups to accept. Why the double standard? And why the expectation to become accepted and part of the culture when groups keep distancing themselves and remaining exclusive?? Of course, this discussion is much greater than just the Outgames. It goes right through the rights and expectations of other minority groups. But, I see other groups trying to embrace and become part of culture, rather than becoming countercultural or creating a new culture and then condemning those who don't accept it . . . Thats my rant. Leave it at that.
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Kathryn said,
November 14, 2006 @ 10:33 pm
Hypocritical is what it is.
If I hear another gay/lesbian whine about how they're oppressed, I'm going to use the Outgames in my arguement...if I get the chance to argue, or even say anything at all, that is.
ro said,
November 16, 2006 @ 8:59 am
I think this will die real quick. I know Canada is the place to be gay and athletic, but honestly. Most homosexuals I bet would shun these games for the same reason we cringe. Anyways, I'm off to train for the next OUtgames since I"ll win gold with my regiment of potato chips and belly ups.
Marc said,
November 17, 2006 @ 6:44 pm
I think it's acutally a positive gathering, in a way.
Focusing some on the similarities, rather than differences in communities: Church goers gather regularly to be with like-minded folk to meet, socialize, and share what they've learned. It's not uncommon to see an annual convention of one group or another.
Common social groups - churches and typical sports crowds in particular - are still often hostile to the gay community at large.
Events like the "Outgames" and the parent "Gay Games" come as a result of gay groups gathering in cities across the continent, in broad daylight, to participate in healthy activity. The "gay bar" is no longer their only social outlet, and is actually declining in popularity.
I agree with this post, that it is unfortunate for the gay community to keep itself distanced. I believe though, with time and greater acceptance, you'll find them going to church and hanging out "with the guys" (including the straight ones) just like everyone else.
That said, Ro's comment is valid as well. Both the "Outgames" and "Gay Games" have frequenly racked up deficits lately, rather than proftis - indicative of declining support within the gay community itself.
Marc said,
November 17, 2006 @ 6:50 pm
Edit for honesty: On second thought, I don't actually know the financial history of the "Outgames" - it's relatively new; don't quote me on that part. >_
Marc said,
December 7, 2006 @ 2:45 pm
I checked up on it - the "Outgames" and "Gay Games" are both financial sinkholes. (4.7 million deficit for this last round of the "Outgames".)
I don't expect to see these organizations survive for long.
ro said,
December 8, 2006 @ 9:22 am
Yea no kidding, where did you look it up?