Sunday, June 2, 2013

ROB FORD - NO GAY PRIDE

"It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences."
- Audre Lorde


"Rob Ford: Mayor says he’ll choose cottage over Pride parade again this year" - Daniel Dale, City Hall
http://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2013/06/01/rob_ford_mayor_says_hell_choose_cottage_over_pride_parade_again_this_year.html

Once again, Toronto mayor and intellectual heavyweight Rob Ford has announced that he will not be attending this year's Toronto Gay Pride Parade. That would make three years in a row -- the time he's served as mayor -- that he has effectively given the finger to one of this city's most special events. (I doubt he can count to "three" in one sitting, never mind having to "carry a 'one' " to the following year.)

The most exalted one has openly mocked gays and gay marriage in the past. It makes sense that he would not want to go to a festive event that celebrates something he hates (read: does not understand). It's one thing to personally have a problem with an issue, but, and it's a big one, Ford is the mayor of Toronto. If he's too dim-witted to attend the parade on his own volition, then he should be forced to attend: Pull out the baby carriage, reinforce the suspension, and start pushing...

If Baby Robert starts whining, give him a lollipop.

4 comments:

DonaldAR said...

Here's a first: I disagree. Why? First; it appears that Pride is not so much about gay rights (any longer, at least), and more about flaunting a lifestyle. So, for the same reason many of us don't attend, should this be a civic obligation? Second; Does City Hall, i.e., the Toronto Tax Payer, not already support it financially? And finally; is the Mayor is expected to attend any other annual parades? Khalsa Day? Orangemen's Day? Santa Claus? Smarter politicians might attend an event in order to garner support - not only from the celebrants, but from open-minded constituents who may think it is respectful gesture. If I were a Torontonian, I wouldn't waste much effort on this particular peccadillo. It is just another indicator of the Mayor's style (or lack thereof). Well, like I said, smarter politicians...

Barry Smight said...

I actually don't disagree with your points, fully. The parade is big, however... huge, even. It's not a 'regular' event, by any means. That is why I hold it as an example of the mayor not doing what is demanded by part of his job description. But, again, I don't totally disagree with you.

So you know, I have never attended the parade (I'm straight) and neither have a few gay friends of mine; the event holds little or no interest for them.

Having said that, I've heard from many people, straight and gay, that the event is a lot of fun.

Thanks for your comment.

DonaldAR said...

Well, we should go, Sailor! I know you'd prefer "Airman," but "when in Toronto," as they say...

Barry Smight said...

Call me! ;)