The Gay Games are headed to Chicago this summer and some in that city’s suburbs want nothing to do with them.
The Crystal Lake Park District Board reversed last week’s vote that would have barred the 2006 Gay Games rowing competition from taking place in the conservative Chicago suburb. Board President Jerry Sullivan was absent from the town’s first vote, so it was held again, angering many of the bigots who showed up at a contentious Park Board meeting to speak their mind. (Video)
Sullivan’s explanation for his vote was cool and rational: “I have the responsibility to look at each proposal before the board with the same objectivity. When something is well-organized and meets our criteria, we as a board will embrace it.”
Some Crystal Lake residents just don’t want gays in their town. Perhaps they’re worried that the lake will get cooties or something.
Resident Jeff Beebe (pictured here) spoke forcefully against allowing the Games: “This is a request with an athletic event with the title Gay Games. I oppose it, totally against it.” Unfortunately, for his sake, he wore an outfit that made him look gayer than Jack Twist.
The City of Lakewood and the City of Crystal Lake still need to vote on the Games, and I’ve got a feeling we’ve not heard the end of this.
Heated Debate Surrounds Suburban Gay Games Event [cbs2 chicago]
Crystal Lake Park District Board OKs Gay Games event [chicago tribune]
