Or, in this case, Telus:
It used to be that only the bars and clubs floated dancing boys, disco and drag. When did it happen that corporate Canada decided to fly the rainbow flag with the Full Go-go on streets off-Davie?.
Sure, I get the marketing strategy: gays in particular have the discretionary dough and the desire to consume lots of flights, phones and financial products.
But all those with trade-marked brands really needed to do was show up with a banner and a few of the T-shirted staff from the downtown branches. Instead they decided to take the risk of offending those who blanch at the sight of their logo next to all that skin.
So maybe something more is going on. Perhaps they realized that somehow the LGBT community has found a way to appeal to a broader public in a society where everyone is now a minority – and by shamelessly affirming their support for a sexual minority, the more confident corporations have sent a message to every other identity group. It’s possible to come together, regardless of orientation, colour or belief, and express some pride in who you are.
And to have a fun time doing it.
Straights have found a way to have a gay ol’ time, I suspect, through the traditions of Mardi Gras – a chance to dress outlandlishly, cross a few gender barriers and throw a few beads. And laugh with, not at, those who expose their identities along with their butt cheeks and breasts.
As Neil Patrick Harris sang it:
There’s so much to discover
With your different-gendered lover …
So come in and be inspired
There’s no sodomy required
It’s not just for gays anymore.
