Gay Games to begin despite safety concerns but numbers low
For the first time in its 40-year history, the Gay Games will take place across two cities — Hong Kong and Guadalajara in Mexico — from Nov.
3 but the event might yet be remembered for a different reason: how few people take part. Safety concerns and complicated logistics have dogged the run-up to the quadrennial Games, a nine-day diversity festival with multisports competitions and arts and culture events.
Originally the Games, first held in 1982, were due to be held in Hong Kong in November last year but the city’s strict COVID protocols led to a 12-month postponement and the decision for runner-up bidder Guadalajara in western Mexico to co-host.
Organisers have said Asia’s inaugural hosting of the Games could serve as “a beacon of hope” for the wider community across a region where intolerance is common.
