It's being thrown by a group from the U.S. Embassy, for the U.S. Embassy. Given the situation for gays in Baghdad proper, is it appropriate for Americans to celebrate their Pride with a drag contest in a secured facility? The Washington Post reports:
"Change has certainly come to Baghdad. And it appears that includes the
U.S. Embassy, where they are holding what the invitation says is the
first-ever U.S. Embassy Gay Pride Theme Party next Friday at
Baghdaddy's, which is the embassy employee association's pub. 'Come celebrate the start of Summer with color . . . and in
costume!' the May 10 invitation says. 'Dress in drag or as a gay icon.
All are welcome.' The invitation was attached to what was called an 'All Hands Alerts' e-mail. An embassy spokesman said by way of explanation: 'This is an event
organized and sponsored by a group of employees. Given the lack of
places to meet in Baghdad, the embassy allows groups to use its social
facilities for events on a first-come, first-served basis.' The invitation says, 'Prizes will be awarded for two contests: Best
Dressed Gay Icon and Best Lip Synch Performance.' Unclear what the
prizes are, but don't forget to 'order costume supplies now in time for
May 29th,' we're told. 'For more info and costume ideas, check out the
next edition of The Tigris Times.'"
We assume locals would be invited but they're likely hiding from militias who want to torture and execute them by gluing their anuses shut.
For One Night, Baghdad Gets a Pink Zone [washington post]
(via story of the turtle)
