What it Feels Like to be Gay Bashed

The scariest thing about gay bashing is that it can happen suddenly, anytime, and anywhere. Even in Canada.

Even in a gay-friendly place like Montreal.

And with that came the first punch – straight to the nose. I barely had time to realize what was happening when a second strike hit the side of my temple. Several more punches followed, all while I kept shouting a steady pulse of “fuck off”s and “get the fuck away from me's. "

Something about this story bothers me. Not just the speed with which insane hatred explodes into violence. Because I've seen it with my own eyes.

Or the cowards that fight in packs. Because I had to fight others like them for YEARS. In fact, when Sébastien first bumped into me, in a bar not far from where this guy was attacked, I was beating a bully bloody with a pool cue. So I know all about senseless violence.

And the part about the good samaritan didn't bother me either.

I was thankful this person came by, and I turned to her, if only to find comfort in a pair of sympathetic eyes. She looked at me, and in a pathetic act of consolation, motioned in the direction of the assailants and said, “Don’t worry, those guys are just faggots.”

Because sadly it's so TYPICAL. And just another sign of the problem.

So I guess it must be this that bothers me:

It took me a long time to compose myself. I was furious. I refused police intervention, medical attention, and even consolation from friends. I thought I was fine. I thought I could just shake it off. In hindsight, I wish I had realized that, yes, that’s blood coming out of your nose. Yes, that’s a piece of your tooth you just spat out. No, you are not okay.

Because where did David ever get the idea he should just shake it off? Why didn't he get the police involved? Doesn't he realize that a crime that isn't reported is like a crime that never happened?












So the guilty won't be punished, and the violence will go on and on.

But who can blame him? Being attacked suddenly....just for who you are.... is shocking and traumatizing.

You know it's easy to say that gay kids should take martial arts and learn to fight like I did. But why should gentle people have to become as violent their enemies?

Because David did get one thing REALLY right:

Fuck those guys. Fuck their views on life. Fuck the way they express themselves. I do not have a problem. I am not at fault. I will continue to eat my pizza and wear the tightest pants I fucking want.

Because nobody should have to apologize for being gay. Or for wearing tight pants. Or be attacked just for who they are.

Basher bullies are cowardly scum.

And the streets belong to EVERYONE...