Does being gay require a proclivity for pear martinis or pinot noirs? New York magazine recently covered a study and pilot program by Columbia University on the link between gays and adult beverages. Project Smart, which was started in spring of 2007, studies the habits and responses of gay men and alcoholic addiction, while helping patients learn how to drink conservatively and responsibly, as opposed to strict abstinence.
It was the story's commentary that got my attention. Clinical psychologist Jon Morgenstern is quoted saying, "It's too socially debilitating to cut a gay man off from the bar and club scene...Gay men have the minds of college students and teenagers when it comes to alcohol. It's crucial to their socializiation."
Benoit Denizet-Lewis, gay author and recovering addicting said: "Gay men struggle with addiction more than their straight counterparts. It's not suprising geven that it's traumatizing to grow up gay in this country...
Gay New Yorker and art director, Will, 31, also stated, "It's tough because, sure, as a New Yorker, drinking plays a role in going out. But it's nothing compared to the role drinking plays in your life as a gay man."
Whoa! Is that really what my life as a gay man revolves around -- what comes out of the tap next? And do I prefer that vodka martini because I lost count of the number of times I've been laughed at or called names? Definitely take a look at of our friend, Jeremy's, response to the article over atGood As You and read on.
This article came at an interesting time for me -- I have just decided to take a month off from going out to the bars or drinking. I wanted some detox from the drinks and the places that are the hub of activity for Pride, summer mayhem and Market Days this weekend in Chicago. Some of you may see this as corraboration of the comments above, yet I ask you to walk over one street. Along Clark Street in Wrigleyville (one street west of the main drag of Boystown), hundreds of my straight friends go out, catch a Cubs game or have dinner -- all accompanied by some form of alcohol.
I think this study and program, while filled with positive benefits, is overlooking some details. Many people are traumatized throughout life, some turning easily to addictions while others do not. To single out the gay community, with its diversity of races, cultures and experiences that could also influence addictive behaviors, is simply wrong.
Also, to say it's crucial to our socialization does not take into account America's current (though improving) attitude towards gays and our community's displays of affection. As evident by the continuing kiss ins and coverage of the event in Salt Lake (check back tomorrow for an update on that from me), gays holding hands, kissing or even camping it up publicly can lead to handcuffing, violence or worse. Gays congregate in bars or homes or other places that allow us to show normal affection for one other without the fear or scrutiny of our hetero-dominant society.
We'll see over the next month if my social calendar completely deflates without Sidetracks or a Sam Adams. Something tells me it won't. I may have more one-on-one time with LGBT friends or attend more house parties or community events to see them. Also, I can assure you my invitations from my straight friends won't increase or decline either. Rather, they'll stay the same -- asking me to join them for a concert in the park or dinner at that new bar/restaurant...and bring some bubbly to share.
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