- Joined
- Feb 17, 2010
Gee, don't you think that heterosexual has become rare species and needs protection in men's skating?!
...I have no idea of one way or another. Reading these multi-page lively conspiracy theories and racism and homophobia charges on USFSA is so intertaining! I thought this board doesn't allow baseless speculations. Maybe I didn't truly understand the rules?
I don't consider this discussion "baseless speculation." Based on the historical treatment of male GLBT skaters by the USFSA in the past (essentially pressuring athletes to remain in the closet) and their failure to fully embrace openly gay athletes now, it is a legitimate discussion (to me anyway). Whether or not any particular athlete is gay isn't the main issue though. To me, it is whether USFSA gives preferential treatment to skaters with a more masculine style. I understand the USFSA, like any organization, cares about its brand and marketability (i.e. the USFSA wants to promote skaters that they believe will increase attendance and viewership). Unfortunately the focus on creating a product that folks in middle America enjoy has created an atmosphere where skaters feel comfortable to be open about their sexuality. It's frustrating because the USFSA should be at the forefront of gay athlete acceptance, given that many male skaters are gay, but they still treat it like taboo. Given the policy this may be a moot point, but please don't act like the possibility of racism or homophobia existing in the USFSA is some ridiculous conspiracy theory.