Thousands flock to PrideFest

By John C. Ensslin, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published June 23, 2008 at 12:05 a.m.

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Photo by Preston Gannaway © The Rocky

Jacob McClelland, left, and Tony Garcia dance during the PrideFest celebration Sunday at the Civic Center in downtown Denver.

Photo by Preston Gannaway © The Rocky

Jeremy Altmann and Jimmy Brogdon mug at the KKZN-AM (760) booth, which featured wedding cutouts, a cue taken from the California court decision.

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June 23, 2008

3:54 a.m.

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lilymatha writes:

It gives us an opportunity to join hands as a group of people with common issues. Just like some online community like BisexualMingle. They can make GLBT together to do something like come out, enjoy life as gay,lesbian, bi, have fun,romance, even explore sexuality,etc.
June 23, 2008

7:33 a.m.

1968camaro writes:

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
June 23, 2008

8:59 a.m.

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davies writes:

PJ: Sad about your brother. Do you ever see him? I have one brother who's mentally ill and alcoholic, and then I moved away and left the rest of my family to deal with him. I guess all we can do is give them whatever unconditional love we can manage. Maybe I'll try and give mine a hug instead of the usual handshake when I'm back there visiting this summer.
June 23, 2008

9:32 a.m.

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Eagle5 writes:

Have all churches, religious groups, and family-type associations made their facts and opinions clear concerning the issue of gays, lesbians, transgenders, and bisexuals? Have many taken the position of acceptance, rejection, or "don't ask, don't tell" and what is their stance on marriage?

Although many will diagree with my opinion and probably say I'm a hate-monger, bigot, etc., I really believe that among the greatist threats to this country, this state, and the world are gays, lesbians, transgenders, and bisexuals. While, I guess, medical evidence exists to say these people can not help what they are (and while it is possible for some males to be born with female features and visa-versa), I am not convinced this is true in all cases.

I, for one, am sick of these people invading our news media, movies, and schools with their ridiculous, communistic-style, propaganda that they are normal and completely acceptable to society. They most certaintly are not and do belong "in the closet" with their own kind.
June 23, 2008

9:52 a.m.

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Hambone writes:

My guess is that the people screaming loudest against gays do so because they harbor secret desires to experiment sexually. They hate themselves so it is much easier to hate someone else outloud.
June 23, 2008

10:15 a.m.

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rickg19611 writes:

Thousands! Why that's almost as many as sit in Section G at one Avalanche game.
June 23, 2008

10:31 a.m.

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JB writes:

Wow-
These discussions always digress to the lowest common denominator. I am horrified by all of the really inaccurate sterotypes being vomited out by people on BOTH sides of the argument!

I have a challenge for EVERYONE posting here... walk a mile in the other person's shoes. No, I'm not saying to go and get into a same-sex relationship, or convert to Christianity, etc...

But, make friends with a gay person... hell, just have a real conversation with one, you'll quickly see that they are not much different than anyone else.

The same goes for the anti-religion folks. make friends with some religious folks...listen to their opinions, thoughtfully.

It's amazing how much of all of this hollow venom would go away if people just took the time to listen to each other.
June 23, 2008

10:39 a.m.

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OhBrother writes:

it's funny that the ones who despise gay people and everything they do know exactly what goes on at gay pride day? I have no idea, don't care and am fine with people being themselves. oh no, I might have to explain somthing difficult to my child if they see it? The horror- I guess that means I have to turn off the TV and actualy parent and teach.

But some of you don't have to worry, just preach the blind hatred that you live your daily life by in about 5 minutes (that's all it will take and then you can get back to NASCAR or your favorite passage) and your kids will pick right up and continue your family tradtion
June 23, 2008

11:06 a.m.

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Steph writes:

You people who are preaching hate at gays are the same type of people that were against segregation. You were wrong then and you are wrong now.

It seems to me that being a Christian would be a difficult road to follow at times. Don't you have to love and tolerate people and things that you personally don't like or understand? Isn't that the way Jesus taught? Do you really think Jesus would be spreading hate (about ANYONE)? Don't tell me about "hating the sin, but loving the sinner." You're trust proving you have more hate than love in your heart.

Please try to be an ACTUAL Christian instead of using your religion to justify hate. That must surely be one of the worst sins of all.
June 23, 2008

11:27 a.m.

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jay writes:

you folks on the anti-gay side of this issue sure have some interesting arguments:

"sick"

"wrong"

"disgusting"

"These "people" absolutely do not keep their lifestyle to themselves nor do they mind their own business"

"40 years ago if a man wanted his package cut off a judge would rightfully lock him in a mental ward to protect him from himself."

"If one is on a path to self-destruction I think it's compassionate not to be accepting."

"I really believe that among the greatist threats to this country, this state, and the world are gays, lesbians, transgenders, and bisexuals"

"I, for one, am sick of these people invading our news media, movies, and schools with their ridiculous, communistic-style, propaganda that they are normal and completely acceptable to society. They most certaintly are not and do belong "in the closet" with their own kind."

"They are despicable in their behavior."

my personal favorite:

"Christians tend to be much more tolerant of derision than gays who have a nearly zero tolerance."

you got it pjmama...damn those homosexuals for wanting to ridicule the bigots who persecute them for being born. god damns them, right?

this is a very nice sentiment:

"It's amazing how much of all of this hollow venom would go away if people just took the time to listen to each other."

if only it were that simple. all the talking in the world isn't going to allow bigots to rationalize their ignorance.
June 23, 2008

11:43 a.m.

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samsmargolis writes:

Hey, wait! If you look closely, you can see Ted Haggard in the background...
June 23, 2008

12:29 p.m.

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dummas writes:

Hambone writes:

My guess is that the people screaming loudest against gays do so because they harbor secret desires to experiment sexually. They hate themselves so it is much easier to hate someone else outloud.

Amen. I'm a straight guy who works in a prominently gay work place. Not once have I been "hit upon", "attempted to be converted", "touched inappropriately", or any of the other outlandish behavior that supposedly goes on when straight people and gay people are intertwined together. It has in fact been the most congenial, respectful, and productive work environment I have ever worked in. Some people on this message board need to go back to their caves and live in the misery they breed.
June 23, 2008

12:38 p.m.

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wow writes:

Its interesting to note that according to some Christians, some kinds of love are bad. If its gay, even though the love is full of understanding and compassion, its bad. If its gay, even though its devoted and giving, its bad. Even though its gentle and forgiving...you get it.
This is a question to the compassionate christian right...Is it ok for gays to be in love if they are never physically intimate? Or are they sinners for merely wanting to be intimate as an expression of their love? Are they sinners for even feeling the love? I really want to know what you think.
The god you worship can go ahead and burn me for thinking that love is a good thing, but I think he could use a little love too if that's how he really feels about it.
BTW, no, I'm not gay, but my sister is. And my Father's a major bible thumper, and accepts and loves her, and her girlfriend. We are a family, whether god likes it or not.
Guess Dad figures hate and derision are bigger sins than the *wrong* kind of love.
June 23, 2008

12:51 p.m.

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rurude writes:

I read through everyone that posted opinions about this subject; I was told just yesterday by my fifteen year old that she is gay. She is also dating her "friend" that I allowed to stay over many of nights. If someone feels so strongly about who and what they are why lie. I don't believe that people are born it way as I asked her has she alway felt this way about girls (or being gay) she said,"No, boys be tripping too much." That sounds like an excuse to try something. I look at it as someone whom had a parent on drugs; people choose this. That same way that my parent was ridiculed (she chose to try the first puff) and the continued use became what the counslers consider a disease. (I am using this as an example; not stating that being gay is a disease).

My question is how does a fifteen year old that couldn't handle a relationship with a boy, understand and handle a relationship with a girl.

Also, I differ with the person that posted that gays and blacks struggles are the same. You don't chose to be black and any other race; you are born that way from your parents. Is that saying the because I gave birth to my daughter I made her gay. I don't think so I would have just had her born "normal".
June 23, 2008

12:54 p.m.

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JB writes:

YIOTA-
Go for it. I don't see any reason not to. Just be sure to invite EVERYONE and also make EVERYONE feel WELCOME! Don't let it turn into a bid ol' gay bashing parade/ festival... if you do all that I bet it will be a great time!
June 23, 2008

1:02 p.m.

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davies writes:

What this country needs are places for these people to go and be with their kind, and I suggest that Massachusetts in the east and California in the west be officially designated as The Gay States. They won't need to march around in parades anymore and they can even have their own sports rivalries: the Boston Red Fishnet Hose can play against the Los Angeles Vice Squad Dodgers.
June 23, 2008

1:19 p.m.

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wow writes:

Rurude--
I don't know if helps at all, but whether your daughter is gay or not has nothing to do with how well you did as a mom. And, at fifteen, she is too emotionally immature to have a healthy intimate relationship with either sex, in my opinion.

It seems societally more acceptable for girls to have gay/bi tendancies, so she could be simply choosing to explore her sexuality in it's entirety. In other words, at her age, if she has discovered that she is gay, that's permanent. But if she is merely curious and feeling safe enough to try experimenting with being gay, she'll probably outgrow it. That's my limited understanding, any way.

My sister discovered that she was gay at 15, after some negative experiences with boys. I don't know if it was a conscious choice or not. I figure that even if in some cases it is a choice, that doesn't make it any more *wrong* than if it were a genetic predisposition.
June 23, 2008

1:19 p.m.

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robols1286 writes:

I have no problem with the gay and lesbian deal. Holding hands and kissing in public is fine by me. Most gay couples I have met are great people and I wouldn't even think twice about their sexual preferences. To each his own, but I don't think that a bunch of dudes running around in dominatrix outfits, handcuffs, and, or various other flagrantly sexual costumes in public is really necessary to demonstrate your "pride". Nor is it the image that normal happy gay people should want to project about their lifestyles. Gay, Straight, Trannsexual, whatever... Do whatever you want in the privacy of your home, or even gay bars or strip clubs, or whatever, but be a little respectful in public. I just saw way too much of that going on for me to be able to really respect anything about the pride fest, which is sad, because not all gay people are like that, but the thing that all the gay haters will hold onto is the weirdo crap.
June 23, 2008

1:28 p.m.

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rurude writes:

Thanks Wow;

To me it seems all wrong and I am not trying to bash anyone. I just don't agree with it and I am seriously crying at this moment because I can't help but feel in some way responsible, of course I am her mother. I want to know what makes is so right for some people, however, I know that I won't get the answer here. I really would like to speak to someone with experience on the subject.

I too have has negative experiences with boys (I am sure that some guys have had negative experiences with me) but I didn't think about dating a girl instead.

I am just confused mostly because I don't understand.

Thanks again for your response.
June 23, 2008

1:31 p.m.

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davies writes:

robols1286: Well said, and I concur. Thank you.
June 23, 2008

1:38 p.m.

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GK writes:

rurude

Try "Parents and friends of lesbians and gays" (PFLAG). They are all about talking to and offering advice to folks in a situation like yours.
June 23, 2008

1:39 p.m.

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wow writes:

rurude--
PFLAG is the group for parents in your situation to talk to. The support line number here in Denver is 303-333-0286.

Please give them a call, as it will make you feel a lot more on top of this. I wish you luck hon.
June 23, 2008

1:43 p.m.

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wow writes:

Here's the link too.
http://www.pflagdenver.org/

LOL GK...how did we manage that? Two people on this page saying the same thing, almost simultaneously. How creepy...Hope we don't start a trend of compassion and cooperation.
June 23, 2008

1:50 p.m.

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JB writes:

Rurude-
I'll echo what a few others here have said, PFLAG is a great organization and can help you try to wrap your head around what's going on. You might also just pop over to your nearest Barnes and Nobel...there are a number of well-written books for parents in your situation.

Whether or not your daughter is just experimenting, or is truley a lesbian will only be figured out in time. It's certainly not unheard of for young people to want to experiment... but on the other hand perhaps her flippant attitude is merely a coping mechanism for her. It seems like perhaps the attitudes your family holds of gays in not necessarily positive, so maybe she's just trying to blow it off to avoid a really difficult conversation...which we all know kids do regardless of the topic!

I just hope that, for her sake, you will put some of your preconcived notions aside when she is ready to talk. I truley believe sexuality is something that is born, and that said I hope you will accept her just the same as if she had crooked teeth, two different color eyes, etc... she is your daughter and I'm sure that she loves, and needs you right now.
June 23, 2008

1:52 p.m.

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rurude writes:

Thanks,

Wow and GK, I'll try it and see.
June 23, 2008

2:16 p.m.

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rurude writes:

JB,

I have always had strong views about gays but how can you feel that way about a person the I gave birth to. I want to hold her and make her understand that it is alright...but right now I don't know how. I will contact the people at pflag and maybe get some insight on how to deal with this. I do know other people that are gay but it was okay until it "happened" to me. I will work this slowly so I don't hurt her feelings as I am her mother; I wouldn't want someone else to hurt her. I think that it is just crossing into the unknown for me - but I think that I have been through worst. I can learn to do this thing...I just hope SHE knows what she is getting herself into. At her age I don't think she truly understand either.

Thanks for your advice.
June 23, 2008

2:17 p.m.

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rurude writes:

I meant how can I feel that way about someone that I birthed(sp).
June 23, 2008

2:45 p.m.

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jay writes:

good advice for rurude.

i would also suggest getting some education on the genetics behind homosexuality so you can start constructing some better informed opinions. might make a big difference in how you view your own role in this as you seem to be struggling with it.
June 23, 2008

3:01 p.m.

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wow writes:

Luckily for Davies there is already a place in this country he can go to be with his kind. I think they call it Mississippi.
June 23, 2008

3:10 p.m.

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JB writes:

Rurude-
Good luck. Just do what you do best...LOVE YOUR CHILD! That's what really matters. She's young, and, gay or straight... will learn the lessons of love the hard way like we all did (or are still doing!)

I'm very proud that you are trying so hard to educate yourself and catagorically stated that you love her no matter what. As long as you keep doing that, it will all be ok. Don't forget that...I think that once you actually meet some gay people, have some conversations and get to know them as people and not sterotypes, you will see that they aren't all that different.
June 24, 2008

7:56 a.m.

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JYP3500 writes:

Being gay is a choice, lifestyle & fad. No one will ever convince me otherwise. A black person has no choice about being black. A gay person can be straight one day, and gay the next. End of argument.
June 24, 2008

8:16 a.m.

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JB writes:

JYP-
You are, of course, mistaken... However, when one has their mind so firmly set, it is futile to try to rationalize with them. Just remember your words because undoubtedly there is, and will be much more, scientific proof to the contrary.
June 24, 2008

10:59 a.m.

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jay writes:

jyp, i'm not sure that supernatural belief is a solid source upon which to base your opinion on this issue....or any issue for that matter.

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Home › News › Local News

Thousands flock to PrideFest

By John C. Ensslin, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published June 23, 2008 at 12:05 a.m.

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