The CBC recently asked if the Sochi Olympics could be the gayest
yet. So wonderfully ironic considering Russia’s anti-gay laws and Mr. Putin’s
derogatory comments. It is also something to be celebrated. Yet, when the
Toronto mayor can still say that the Olympics are “about being patriotic to your country, [that they are] not about someone's sexual preference" I get sideswiped. What I really hear him saying is that
the Olympics should celebrate nationality over human rights. The sad part is that I know of people who agree with him. I
cannot even begin to relate. I would much rather be a champion of human dignity,
equal rights and opportunity than be identified as a Canadian (or any other
nationality).
I do not feel that my sexual orientation—straight, lesbian
or bi—changes who I am. I will still love chocolate chip cookies regardless of
whom I wish to have sex. Funny, the same goes with nationality. I could
emigrate to Russia, change citizenship and not only still like chocolate chip
cookies but still want to sleep with whatever gender I desire.
When can we stop this senseless promotion of national
identity over human rights? The Sochi mayor proudly states there are no gays in
Sochi. Is that supposed to make me admire his city, want to live there; feel
safe there?
When I see a beautifully executed ski jump; a graceful skate
performance or the determination of those who have fallen to continue on, I do
not marvel at that person’s nationality. I look instead at the individual’s
courage, perseverance and tremendous spirit.
I do not give a hoot whether Canada wins twenty medals or
none at all. What I do care about is that the athletes, spectators, officials
and everyone else for that matter is treated with the respect due all human beings.
And if that means proudly flying the Rainbow flag above
Canada’s … so be it.
No comments:
Post a Comment