In a society that prides itself on diversity and inclusivity, a group of LGBTQ conservatives who are supporters of former President Trump claim they are being marginalized by the broader gay rights movement, which they perceive as increasingly leaning towards the left.
This group, marching to the beat of their own drum, feels ostracized and alienated due to their political beliefs.
Mark Dorman, a retired teacher from Hells Kitchen, shared his experiences with The New York Post, stating that he has been virtually ostracized from his local gay bar, the Atlas Social Club, since he expressed his positive views about the former president. The Atlas Social Club, however, did not respond to The Post's request for comment.
Dorman, 64, expressed his frustration, saying, Im almost anti-gay. Its an embarrassment to see this kind of behavior Id really invite them to go to Iran or Gaza. See what that does for you. See how fast they throw you in prison or kill you. He further compared the current environment to a "Soviet Union, Marxist environment," suggesting that the gay community perceives Republicans on the far right as anti-gay due to their religious beliefs.
Dorman's political leanings have not only affected his social life but also his personal relationships. He recounted an incident when his support for Trump nearly ended his marriage. When Trump won, my husband was so upset he wanted me out of our apartment. The rage was unexplainable I mean honest rage. I could not understand this emotion in him and why anyone would let a political vote destroy or nearly destroy a marriage, he said. However, their marriage survived, albeit with a tacit agreement to avoid discussing politics.
Anthony Tolve and John McGuigan, two other LGBT conservatives, experienced hostility at the New York Citys Pride Parade on June 30. They claimed to have received cold stares and jeers from the crowd for displaying rainbow Trump flags. There was definitely a lot of hate, said Tolve, 45. A lot of rich white women with children who feel inclined to come up to you and face off with you.
The gay community has traditionally leaned liberal, but the increasing incorporation of causes unrelated to gay rights into the movement has further distanced conservatives.
The rainbow flag, a long-standing symbol of gay rights, is being replaced by the "Progress Flag," which includes a variety of new colors representing the movement. Andrew Sullivan, a longtime gay cultural critic, criticized the new banner, saying, Its an aesthetic and design monstrosity that no gay man should approve of. Its a disgrace to our sexual orientation.
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