Philadelphia has become the latest city to label itself as a gay-friendly destination, this time by designating a so-called “gayborhood”, complete with 36 new street signs that are permanently affixed with the rainbow flag.
I have to say I was extremely sceptical when I read this story. It is great that Philadelphia is so enthusiastic about being seen as a gay-friendly place for residents and visitors, but I can’t help thinking that this smacks more of a bit of a publicity stunt rather than anything meaningful.
I am also rather concerned about the message this sends about what gay people want from a city. Most don’t live in a ghettoized lifestyle, and don’t want to. I don’t think the struggle for gay rights is being fought for people to be confined to areas where the street signs have the rainbow flag.
I don’t have a problem with gay villages at all, and I was eating at a gay restaurant in Soho last night myself, but at the same time the idea of officially designating a “gay” zone does not appeal.
I think Philadelphia should take a lead from VisitBritain which dropped its United Queendom campaign with the tag line "Isn’t it time you came out … to Britain?" in recognition that it had become rather clichéd, and a negative reaction from focus groups of gay and lesbian travellers.
The broader campaign run by the city has not reached me directly through the gay media in the UK. Stunts like this do of course make the news, and that’s why in my view it’s a shame they went with this idea.
Philadelphia should continue to concentrate on promoting its inclusive and tolerant reputation where the gay community is welcoming and integrated, and focus less on potentially divisive symbols.
SUBSCRIBE