I get the concept, but for many people, it’s just not a choice they can risk. I live in a very gay-friendly neighborhood, where I can make out on the street, hold hands while walking to the market, and the local coffee shop knows my gf’s order before I do. That’s all well and good – but I’m in the minority. Calling in “gay” in my kind of neighborhood wouldn’t be a problem, but then again, I feel I am appreciated anyway.
While it’s a good idea in theory to call in “gay” to work, it might not be right for everyone….and here’s why…
According to msnbc.com, today is going to be a “day without a gay” to show the power of gay and lesbian citizens in the workforce. Of course, this also means “outing” yourself at work if the concept is to help with visibility. Not everyone can do that and still have a job…since, you know, in many places it is still perfectly legal to fire you for liking chicks.
So, call in “gay,” and have a workplace tolerant enough to understand how valuable you are…or “out” yourself, and possibly lose your job or any hope of promotion. How many of you called out today?


{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Not I — I had no vacation time left. LOL
The problem is that it’s not like we all work in one big company. If we did people would notice — but this way they have no idea (and probably don’t care) that and why we aren’t there….
…my 2 cents…
I called off work, but not for Call In Gay Day, I have a helluva cold.
I know of one person who actually did call in gay … I wonder how many actually did.
I forgot. Oops. But my work crush called in today. Hmm note to self: make move at Xmas party.
It’s not just about whether you’ll get fired or it’ll make things awkward at work, some people just can’t afford to take an unplanned day off like that because it’ll make their finances tight, or even make it impossible to make ends meet. It’s unfortunately an event in which not everyone can participate due to personal finances and class issues.