Quote from: Mogul
"In my view, well-organized and well-networked local gay communities will not only essentially improve the cultural and political live of gays, but also will form the best preliminary structures for gay cultural and political indipendence.
And let me explain why: it's because in communities we live our social life - meet other people, make sports, work etc. In communities we experience our living together as a people, indeed, the people is the next stage in the evolution of communities! Our weakness comes from our disorganization - no hetero can be blaimed for that mishap of ours. Organized communities are the place where our people could reach many of our political and cultural goals even before the gay state is actually established."
<End of quote>

I'm glad to finally read this argument being made in this forum. I totally agree with it. It's one of the primary themes I've written about. I would just add that, in my opinion, these communities might consist of (where space and zoning laws permit) not only housing, but employment and business opportunities, local government (to which all inhabitants regardless of their sexuality are free to vote or hold office), law enforcement (which could provide local non-military security), schools, colleges, cultural venues, public parks, etc.
But it's key that they remain not only integrated within, but integrated and interactive with surrounding communities - fostering business and cultural ties - which would diminish the chance of animosity arising. Outreach would be critical for their success. This also helps refute the old tired criticism of ‘ghettoization.' I would point out that whether at a later date a gay nation were achieved or not, these communities would remain part of their original nations, therefore their own community goal is not separatism, and separatism should not be part of their community agenda. Individual inhabitants, of course, would be free to hold any private belief or join any private organization or movement (separatist, ect.) they wanted.
I also want to point out that integration does not mean that gay people need be the demographic minority. A community with a gay majority is just as legitimately integrated as one with a straight majority. The two key elements to integration, in my view, are 1) that any law-abiding individual is welcome to live there, and 2) that all citizens be treated equally regardless of differences. There are ways that a local gay majority can be encouraged without resorting to discrimination. For example, through public and/or private sponsorship of local gay culture.
If local communities is a path this group seriously decides to pursue, I would be interested in helping out where I can to see them become a reality.
I can be contacted at
jemikos@hotmail.comJeff