ISRAEL: A perfect place for gays?
06.16.09
In the last week I have heard a lot of debate about gay pride in Israel. When I walk around Tel Aviv and I see gay couples freely walking the streets holding hands and kissing it is strange to think that outside the city so much controversy surrounds the issue.
Gay and Proud TA mayor: Pride Parade is example of tolerance / Eli Senyor In response to Shas chairman’s demand to cancel gay march, Mayor Ron Huldai says parade an example of ’openness that will influence and pave the way for other places in Israel’.
I have listened to discussions about the relevance of having a gay pride parade or the lack thereof and not only what it means to be out and proud, but also whether gay people have anything to be proud of in the first place. Many Israelis that I have talked to are of the opinion that it’s ok to be gay as long as it is kept in the bedroom and out of view of the public and deny that there is a need to have a day where different forms of sexuality are celebrated. This is where I have to respectfully disagree.