June 27, 2008

APSA listens to reason

The American Political Science Association has decided to hold the 2012 meeting in New Orleans despite complaints from gay and lesbian members:
Lesbian and gay activists in the association say that a "defense of marriage" amendment approved by Louisiana voters in 2004 contains such severe language that they and their partners would face risks in visiting the state.
Y'all, there is a big difference between New Orleans and the rest of Louisiana.  Remember how certain members of the religious right actually blamed Hurricane Katrina on all the homosexuality in New Orleans (and the parties, strip shows, drunken sex, and general hedonism)?  There is plenty of gayness in New Orleans, and as a lesbian I would be happy if my discipline held a conference there.  It's the tweed-clad aging heteros who will feel a bit out of place.

Besides, the APSA held last year's conference in Chicago, and nobody accused them of endorsing the corrupt politicians and the racist police.