GAY DAYS- Should I be concerned for my kids ?

[sdzman]

Gay people dont cut in line like those Brazilians

 

[tecdavidt]

I knew we had booked our trip during the "gay days" but I didn't give it much thought. A huge thank you to CanadianGuy for posting the parks they hope to attend in their huge group and the dates--why? Crowd control, nothing worse than finding at huge tour group visiting the same park you are at. I'd rather go to the park that a tour group is not at. Gay families with children in tow should opt to do the same. The crowds need to spread around all the world and maybe it won't feel jam packed.

In my opinion, I wish Disney would control the foul language printed shirts people wear in the parks. That isn't appropriate for any child to see.

Kathy

 

[DonaldTDuck]

Here is what Pete had to say last year. Taken straight from the website.


By Pete Werner
DIS Founder/Webmaster

Authors Note: This article pertains mainly to the Saturday event during Gay Days. The rest of the week is fairly benign. My suggestion to those who wish to avoid the event is to avoid the Magic Kingdom on the first Saturday of June. During the week, a different theme park is featured for the "Gay Days" event. If you wish to avoid the crowds, I suggest that you avoid the scheduled park for that day.

The Gay Days schedule for 2007 was as follows:
Thu, May 31 - Animal Kingdom
Fri, June 1 - Disney/MGM Studios
Sat, June 2 - Magic Kingdom
Sun, June 3 - Epcot


“Go get a room”.

That’s exactly what I feel like yelling this time every year as Gay Days descend upon Orlando. I know that during the first week in June, unsuspecting families and otherwise good and reasonable people will, at times, be confronted with images and events they would probably rather not see or experience on their family vacation. These people paid to visit Disney World, but during the first week in June, it looks a lot more like South Beach.

For the record, I’m a 42 year old gay man living in Orlando. I’ve been to Gay Days before, and thought it was a little bit over the top, but always bit my lip – especially here on the site. This year though, it just seems completely out of control, and I wanted to get this off my chest.

I’ve watched over the years as Gay Days has grown in scope and size. What once was a small group of well meaning gay men and lesbians has grown – and in my opinion, deformed – into what is now nothing more than a vile spectacle of self indulgence and indecency.

No matter how prudish that last sentence may sound, trust me – I’m no prude. I have a liberal streak that cuts through me like a hot knife through butter, but I like to think that I was raised with a certain sense of decency and a pretty good sense of right and wrong. There is a time and a place for everything, and Disney World is neither in this instance.

Over the years I have heard about, and have witnessed, what is commonly referred to as PDA (public displays of affection) during gay days, and almost always it’s done in full view of a family, or at least children. I don’t care if you’re straight or gay, there are some things kids don’t need to see – and trust me, two queens frenching outside Cinderella castle is really high on that list.

I can’t help but think of, and feel sorry for – the unsuspecting family who saved for years for a once in a lifetime trip – only to arrive and find that Disney had in fact, been invaded by he-women and shaved down muscle boys. By itself that would not be a problem, but the sheer number of people who seem to go out of their way to rub their sexuality in everyones face during this ‘event’ is nothing short of disgraceful. Is the Magic Kingdom REALLY the place for a 5 year old to ask his father why those two men are kissing? Is it really up to any person to decide for that parent when, or if, they will have that conversation with their child? I’ve always believed the best way we, as gay men and lesbians, could further our cause was to simply live our lives openly, and with dignity. Not hide in shame, and not force our beliefs or lifestyle down anyone elses throat. I don’t like it when I hear pompous windbags telling me I’m going to burn in hell for being gay, and I’m sure most of the free world would appreciate a visit to Disney World that did not include the vision of grown men in go-go shorts, and ads for lubricant prominently displayed throughout the host hotel. Oh, and while we’re on the subject of ‘image’ at the host hotel (the Sheraton World on International Drive)– the line of beer trucks outside the resort was a nice touch, and the liquor kiosks and condom ads every 5 feet will certainly not further the image of us as a bunch of drunken sex fiends.

The argument is often put forth that since Christian groups congregate at Disney World, why not us? Fair enough, except that the ‘Night of Joy’ (the Christian concert that takes place at the Magic Kingdom each year) is a hard ticket event – meaning that it’s not open to the public, and requires separate admission. The Magic Kingdom is closed down to the public at a certain time, and only those people that CHOOSE to be there are allowed in. Families that come to the Magic Kingdom on Gay Days are not afforded the luxury of choice. Since Disney does not sanction the event, it’s not mentioned anywhere, or to anyone booking a reservation during that week. If “Gay Day” at the Magic Kingdom was a hard ticket event like the Night of Joy, sign me up. But it’s not – it’s far from it. Trust me, if a religious group organized 100,000 Christians to go and ‘make yourself known’ in the Magic Kingdom one day a year – and began rubbing their lifestyles in the faces of visitors by preaching to them as they tried to ride Space Mountain – plenty of people would be up in arms.

Then there is the issue of drugs. It is widely known throughout the gay community in Orlando that if you want good drugs and great sex, the first week of June is a great time to visit. So much so, that the Orange County Sheriffs office found it necessary to station deputies and drug sniffing dogs in the lobby of the host hotel. And before the oppression chorus starts warming up, just get real – we all know that it goes on in droves during gay week – and it’s not ‘oppression’ if it’s justified. I don’t mean to imply that every person attending gay days is a drug crazed lunatic – the vast majority are not – but no one in the gay community can deny how pervasive this problem is, and the problem travels with us.

Now, I have to tell you I’m uncomfortable writing this. In the 8 years I’ve had the site, I’ve never used it to espouse my beliefs – political or otherwise, and I doubt seriously I ever will again. But, I know a little something about Disney, and as a gay man – I feel I had something to say on this issue – something that should be said, something that many good, decent and reasonable people feel – but will never openly express for fear of ‘political incorrectness’.

I’m also more than a little fed up. I’m fed up with the world thinking that this is what being gay in America is all about – it’s not. I’m fed up that those of us with some sense of ourselves outside of circuit parties and body building are painted with this tawdry brush. But most of all, I’m fed up with watching a place I love get defiled by the kind of twisted nonsense that routinely takes place during Gay Days. The Magic Kingdom is not the place to make a stand, or to further an agenda. While Disney does not openly promote or discourage the event, I know that many inside the mouse house dread its arrival every year. It’s a political land mine and Disney does their best to walk it very carefully. In my mind, Disney already does it right. I’ve stayed at Disney hotels, sailed on the Disney Cruise Line and probably eaten in every restaurant on Disney property – on both coasts– and done all of it with my male partner. NEVER ONCE was I treated any differently than any other guest – it was a non issue – the way it should be. That’s Disney's policy and it’s a good one. In return for that, my partner and I act appropriately when we’re in public – the way any couple should – straight or gay.

And before I get any emails from my gay brethren calling me a ‘self loathing aunt tom’ (someone actually called me that once), let me be clear – I’m proud of who and what I am. I just don’t feel the need to force feed it to the world in that way. Disney is a place where reality is suspended, at least for a time. It’s not a place for anyone’s political agenda – right or left. Keep Key West in Key West – and let Disney be Disney.

 

[TheRustyScupper]

1) I would not fear for the kids.
2) Gays are still just people.
3) Regardless of our opinion of their lifestyles, don't worry.
4) I would, however, read their website for the park-of-the-day.
5) Go to another park, to help with crowd levels and Public Displays of Affection.

 

[belle&sebastiansmom]

There's a thread about the grossest things seen at the parks. Read those pages. I'm sure you'll be more bothered by the prospect of puking adults and kids peeing in bottles while waiting in ride lines then by seeing someone in studded leather.

Whenever you go, just enjoy yourself! Don't go looking for trouble.

 

[Tammysue5]

DonaldTDuck....I applaud your honesty! As the mother of 4 wonderful children I appreciate someone who will tell it like it is and would be happy to have my family stand in line next to you any day at WDW! So, here is hoping you don't get nasty PMs.

 

[CathrynRose]

YES! Very VERY Concerned. They often attempt kidnapping, or at least brain washing to bring you to 'their' side.




Depends. If your are afraid your child will see someone who is Gay - then yes. Cuz the park is filled with them. Other then THAT I see no reason for concern.

I was at Gay Days in 2004 - accidently (we lived there at the time) and as the boat pulled up my husband and I were both perplexed "Why is everyone wearing red?" and then it dawned on me!

Quite frankly - it was great. MK was pretty much empty, on a Saturday in June!!! We walked on everything. And except for a few eccentric outfits, it was like any other day in the MK.

 

[Jessfrogger88]

If only people were as tolerant with the Brazilians and the cheerleaders.

Seriously I don't think that the person was being malicious or homophobic or trying to offend anyone with their question it was an honest question.

I know this is Disney but this is the disboards where people come to find out everything about WDW.

I would take my kids to see Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, but I wouldn't feel comfortable taking them to a Gay Pride Parade or Mardi Gras.

I have been there for Gay Days and would go again and take my kids (if I ever have chidlren), but this was just an honest question. Granted I don't think Disney would ever allow something like Mardi Gras too take place, but not everyone is fully aware so that is why they ask a question.

 

[CanadianGuy]

Here is what Pete had to say last year. Taken straight from the website.
By Pete Werner
DIS Founder/Webmaster

I like and respect Pete very much.. but this is something on which he and disagree strongly.

For the record: the article you posted verbatim on this thread is at least three years old - maybe more. Either way it's not from 2006 or 2007, so it's not last year.

It doesn't reflect my experiences in 2006 or 2007.

And, in each of those years, I've personally invited Pete to attend to reconsider his column and he has not yet chosen to do so.

[EDIT: Maybe he says no because of how I dress.. nobody thinks I'm stylish ]

I wish he would. I can honestly say I saw nothing of the sort in 2006 or 2007. For another viewpoint, listen to the podcast linked from that page here on the DIS.. where Pete and John discuss the topic.

Knox

 

[GrillMouster]

A few years ago my wife and I visited Magic Kingdom unaware that we were there during Gay Days until we boarded the ferry (spelled F-E-R-R-Y) to the park and were surrounded by same-sex couples and families, many wearing red t-shirts and holding hands . It was obvious that a lot of other straight guests were caught by surprise. For as long as I can remember I've had gay friends, coworkers, and relatives, so I wasn't afraid of catching "the gay". However, I was a little apprehensive, not knowing what to expect at the park and having heard anecdotal information about debauchery during Gay Days. I'm happy to say that we had a great time. In case you're interested, I only saw a couple of guys dressed effeminately. Hand-holding, back-stroking, and an occasional peck were the extent of public displays of affection that we saw.

The most rambunctious behavior we witnessed was at the Country Bear Jamboree. FYI, "Bears" are a self-identified subset of the gay community, typically known for being hairy (body and/or face) and fat/large (like the animal). Basically, they have the stereotypical physical male attributes of working-class masculinity. Lots of guys were wearing red shirts bearing (no pun intended) images of and phrases regarding bears. In the queue and during the show of Country Bear Jamboree, they were constantly joking, laughing, and making crude remarks and innuendo. I admit, we laughed along with them, because so much of the dialog and script for the show sounds like it was written for this crowd! Lyrics like "down on all fours", "blood on the saddle", and "he turns me on"...how could this crowd NOT have fun with the material?!?!

Anyway, we enjoyed our visit, but, then again, it was just the wife and I. We're now parents and haven't given much thought to whether we'd return with our son during Gay Days. I think we would, but I might avoid the Country Bear Jamboree when he starts to get old enough to understand double-entendre.

By the way, part way through our day, we realized that I happened to have been wearing a red t-shirt. I wonder if other people thought that my wife was a man in drag or that I was a "butch" lesbian.

 

[CathrynRose]

I like and respect Pete very much.. but this is something on which he and disagree strongly.

For the record: the article you posted verbatim on this thread is at least three years old - maybe more.

It doesn't reflect my experiences in 2006 or 2007.

And, in each of those years, I've personally invited Pete to attend to reconsider his column and he has not yet chosen to do so.

I wish he would. I can honestly say I saw nothing of the sort in 2006 or 2007. For another viewpoint, listen to the podcast linked from that page here on the DIS.. where Pete and John discuss the topic.

Knox

I agree with you.

I saw hand holding - not groping. I saw pecks on cheeks - not deep throat kissing. I saw bickering between couples - just like straight couples. I saw happy people and gay people. (pun totally intended)

IMO - had I not known, and I wouldnt have really 'known'.

ETA - They did have T-Shirts on that said "Night of Magic - Night of Pleasure" - Magic Kingdom / Pleasure Island.... dirty minds, you all have.

 

[Tammysue5]

If only people were as tolerant with the Brazilians and the cheerleaders.

Seriously I don't think that the person was being malicious or homophobic or trying to offend anyone with their question it was an honest question.

I know this is Disney but this is the disboards where people come to find out everything about WDW.

I would take my kids to see Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, but I wouldn't feel comfortable taking them to a Gay Pride Parade or Mardi Gras.

I have been there for Gay Days and would go again and take my kids (if I ever have chidlren), but this was just an honest question. Granted I don't think Disney would ever allow something like Mardi Gras too take place, but not everyone is fully aware so that is why they ask a question.

I agree, I don't think that the original poster meant any harm.

 

[Tammysue5]

A few years ago my wife and I visited Magic Kingdom unaware that we were there during Gay Days until we boarded the ferry (spelled F-E-R-R-Y) to the park and were surrounded by same-sex couples and families, many wearing red t-shirts and holding hands . It was obvious that a lot of other straight guests were caught by surprise. For as long as I can remember I've had gay friends, coworkers, and relatives, so I wasn't afraid of catching "the gay". However, I was a little apprehensive, not knowing what to expect at the park and having heard anecdotal information about debauchery during Gay Days. I'm happy to say that we had a great time. In case you're interested, I only saw a couple of guys dressed effeminately. Hand-holding, back-stroking, and an occasional peck were the extent of public displays of affection that we saw.

The most rambunctious behavior we witnessed was at the Country Bear Jamboree. FYI, "Bears" are a self-identified subset of the gay community, typically known for being hairy (body and/or face) and fat/large (like the animal). Basically, they have the stereotypical physical male attributes of working-class masculinity. Lots of guys were wearing red shirts bearing (no pun intended) images of and phrases regarding bears. In the queue and during the show of Country Bear Jamboree, they were constantly joking, laughing, and making crude remarks and innuendo. I admit, we laughed along with them, because so much of the dialog and script for the show sounds like it was written for this crowd! Lyrics like "down on all fours", "blood on the saddle", and "he turns me on"...how could this crowd NOT have fun with the material?!?!

Anyway, we enjoyed our visit, but, then again, it was just the wife and I. We're now parents and haven't given much thought to whether we'd return with our son during Gay Days. I think we would, but I might avoid the Country Bear Jamboree when he starts to get old enough to understand double-entendre.

By the way, part way through our day, we realized that I happened to have been wearing a red t-shirt. I wonder if other people thought that my wife was a man in drag or that I was a "butch" lesbian.

 

[freemore]

This is a naive and probably dumb question and not meant to hurt or offend anyone. People seem to mention gay couples holding hands a lot. We were at Disney last week and I don't remember seeing anyone at all holding hands, maybe because it is too crowded to do so or they are pushing strollers, or on ecv's? When DH and I were young we would hold hands a lot and enjoyed it a lot but it does't seem like people do that as much as they used to. I was just wondering do you think people still hold hands a lot in public whether or not they are gay or whether or not they are at Disney? Thanks

 

[Stinky_Pete]

For the record : the article posted verbatim on this thread is at least three years old - maybe more. It's not from 2007 or 2006 ... so it's definitely not "last year".

Actually, I believe I read that post sometime in 2000 or 2001, before I went for my first gay days. At least it seems very similar to the one I read back then. Does Pete frequently post anti-gay days manifestos?

 

[sassyat30]

This is a naive and probably dumb question and not meant to hurt or offend anyone. People seem to mention gay couples holding hands a lot. We were at Disney last week and I don't remember seeing anyone at all holding hands, maybe because it is too crowded to do so or they are pushing strollers, or on ecv's? When DH and I were young we would hold hands a lot and enjoyed it a lot but it does't seem like people do that as much as they used to. I was just wondering do you think people still hold hands a lot in public whether or not they are gay or whether or not they are at Disney? Thanks

DH and I always hold hands in public, especially at Disney...though we aren't gay.

Are you asking strictly about gay couples, or heterosexual couples, too?

Is anyone else amused by how many people are calling same sex couples "the gays"? Maybe I'm weird, but it just strikes me as funny. 'Course, I guess there are a lot of worst things they could be called.

I guess I just see them as "people" kwim?

 

[Stinky_Pete]

A few years ago my wife and I visited Magic Kingdom unaware that we were there during Gay Days until we boarded the ferry (spelled F-E-R-R-Y) to the park and were surrounded by same-sex couples and families, many wearing red t-shirts and holding hands . It was obvious that a lot of other straight guests were caught by surprise. For as long as I can remember I've had gay friends, coworkers, and relatives, so I wasn't afraid of catching "the gay". However, I was a little apprehensive, not knowing what to expect at the park and having heard anecdotal information about debauchery during Gay Days. I'm happy to say that we had a great time. In case you're interested, I only saw a couple of guys dressed effeminately. Hand-holding, back-stroking, and an occasional peck were the extent of public displays of affection that we saw.

The most rambunctious behavior we witnessed was at the Country Bear Jamboree. FYI, "Bears" are a self-identified subset of the gay community, typically known for being hairy (body and/or face) and fat/large (like the animal). Basically, they have the stereotypical physical male attributes of working-class masculinity. Lots of guys were wearing red shirts bearing (no pun intended) images of and phrases regarding bears. In the queue and during the show of Country Bear Jamboree, they were constantly joking, laughing, and making crude remarks and innuendo. I admit, we laughed along with them, because so much of the dialog and script for the show sounds like it was written for this crowd! Lyrics like "down on all fours", "blood on the saddle", and "he turns me on"...how could this crowd NOT have fun with the material?!?!

Anyway, we enjoyed our visit, but, then again, it was just the wife and I. We're now parents and haven't given much thought to whether we'd return with our son during Gay Days. I think we would, but I might avoid the Country Bear Jamboree when he starts to get old enough to understand double-entendre.

By the way, part way through our day, we realized that I happened to have been wearing a red t-shirt. I wonder if other people thought that my wife was a man in drag or that I was a "butch" lesbian.

Things might have changed since the last time I was at WDW for gay days, but "back in the days" the bears (with 2 legs) showed up at the Country Bear Jamboree (with 4 legs) at 1pm. Last time I was there they were not all able to make it into the next show so there was a large population of bears (with 2 legs) at the next show too. So if you brave the crowds at the MK that particular Saturday the Bears (with 4 legs) will probably be about the same as any other Saturday in June anytime other than 1-2 in the afternoon.

 

[Kate and Pete]

DH and I always hold hands in public, especially at Disney...though we aren't gay.

Are you asking strictly about gay couples, or heterosexual couples, too?

Is anyone else amused by how many people are calling same sex couples "the gays"? Maybe I'm weird, but it just strikes me as funny. 'Course, I guess there are a lot of worst things they could be called.

I guess I just see them as "people" kwim?

OMG - I did that, but there's a reason - I have quite a few gay couples who are friends of ours - when we all get together, Pete and I are (affectionately) "the straights" and all the others are "the gays." It's our way of showing love - but it does sound funny!

 

[N10CJT]

During our 10 days in Disney World in November, my girlfriend and I witnessed:
Several people (mostly young women) in very revealing clothing
Several people (again mostly young women) wearing shirts with lewd phrases on them
A drunk accosting us for our Extra Magic Hours bracelets
Dozens of rude people shoving their way onto buses and monorails
A wave of people taking advantage of those stepping aside to allow a wheelchair into the Kilimanjaro Safari in order to advance their own position in line
Lots and lots of swearing with children within earshot, including some sexual remarks
Etc.
I would hope that any parent would be prepared to contextualize these things for their children. So too should they be prepared to let their children know that the lewd behavior of some gay people is not reflective of the majority of homosexuals (we saw gay people during our trip and none were behaving inappropriately, which is pretty much the standard for what we see in our neighborhood here in Albany) as a preface to a discussion about the subject in general. Parenting is a difficult job and I honestly don't envy those engaged in it, but please don't be frightened to put yourself in a position where it might be harder than usual. Chances are that something difficult to speak to your children about will happen during any trip to Disney, and you'll kick yourself forever if you let it detract from your experience, and certainly if you let your fear of exposing your children to the world keep you from going to begin with.
In short, have fun! I'm jealous you'll be visiting well before my next trip!

 

[ricktib]

Lighten up - the OP clearly meant no harm. We all know the kind of sexually overt behavior that the OP wishes not to expose his/her kids to. If I had no frame of reference I'd have asked a similar question. But since I do, I'll just say, steer clear of Pleasure Island (as you normally would in the evening with kids anyway).