The internet has transformed gay culture in terms of building and sustaining a community
of like minded people. Although acceptance of homosexuals has come a long way in recent
decades, homosexuals are still victims of public ridicule, personal assaults, and
discrimination, perhaps more so than any other minority group. Social boundaries still
make romantic or, at times, even friendly approaches uncomfortable due to the level of
uncertainty of intentions from either side. The anonymity of the internet thus provides
a safe means of communication where users are able to clearly declare their personal
objectives and reveal themselves without the same ramifications that can occur
face-to-face.
Chung-Chuan Yang of the Yuan Se Institute of Technology, Taiwan said this on the subject:
"With the emergence of the Internet, gay communities have
found an outlet in which to voice their opinions and in
which they can form a strong sense of community among
themselves. In reality, the Internet has partially achieved
what mass media have failed to do--allowing the voices of
homosexuals to be heard on an equal and objective basis.
With the Internet, homosexuals have assumed the control of
presenting their opinions in the marketplace of ideas
without the mediation of reporters and existing media
organizations."
Homosexuals are able to assemble electronically and within this online community, gays,
lesbians, and transgendered persons are able to develop personal and professional
relationships without fear. Connections via romantic relationships, friendships, and
organizing supporters for legislation are created despite physical distances or
outdated social norms.
Here are some sites that exemplify homosexual community building:
Dating/Friendships:
www.gay.com
www.gaycrawler.com
www.match.com
Legislative:
www.nyacyouth.org
