Originally Posted by apudme

I am very cautious about this "boycott" approach.

It is only when we have a certain level of economic influence and prove we contribute, both financially and in at a community level, that human rights and respect (which really is what we are after here) are afforded.

I have been to Dubai many times, attended supper parties and am aware of a thriving gay community - most residents could not care less and whilst the police may have to be seen to be cracking down, my experience of Dubai is that it is a very tolerant place, as long as cultural boundaries are respected.

I think inparticular it is really important for the more well travelled amongst us, particularly those in the USA, to travel to places like the Middle East and get a greater understanding, first hand, of the people and politics of the region.

Only then can we understand more completely our place in the world, and perhaps first hand influence opinion in such countries and inform debate back home.



Without wishing to personalise this debate, I am not so sure gays are particularly welcome by the prevailing community in Salt Lake - however I would still visit there.