Tacoma: America's Gayest City
Here’s something that you may or may not have seen making the rounds on the social media networks today: Tacoma was named as one of America’s gayest cities city for 2013 by The Advocate magazine.
Criteria used by The Advocate went beyond typical markers of the “gay scene” to consider politics, sports, and other criteria. Marriage equality and openly LGBT elected officials were points in Tacoma’s favor, as were our roller derby teams, and transgender protection. Tacoma managed to make the list despite the absence of a Pottery Barn, Whole Foods, or gay rugby team (all worth points). The article has a brief run-down of how Tacoma measures up, including mentions for The Mix, Out in the Park, and the Pacific Grill.
Gordon Nacarrato, executive chef and vice president of the Naccarato Restaurant Group, which runs the Pacific Grill is featured in an interview with the title What Makes Tacoma Rock. Nacarrato touts Tacoma’s museums, performing arts organizations, and Lady Gaga concerts.
Last week we saw a glowing review of Tacoma as a queer paradise, now this… Are you feeling the love? Does it seem well-founded to you?
Filed under: Awards & Recognition
6 comments
C Chris January 9, 2013
In 2002 the City fought to establish an antidiscrimination ordinance on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Later the State followed suit. In this way, we can be seen as pioneers for equality. We’ve elected a lot of gay and gay-friendly politicians over the last few years – practically the whole City Council.
I would say that in many cases that gays tend to pair off here in Tacoma (and get married), moreso than they do in the rest of the Puget Sound, but I don’t have anything beyond anecdotes to back that up.
The only thing that I’d draw attention to is that many of the other cities in this list have invested in expansion of efficient rail transit systems. Some may argue this point, but if you think about gay meccas like San Francisco or Portland, generally they have robust transit systems that enable a certain kind of urban life and vitality that I hope Tacoma is working towards.
E Erin January 9, 2013
Hey, Tacoma Sirens Rugby team is a relatively gay team ;)
R Ryan January 9, 2013
Yes! Having been a Tacoma resident in the past, having served on the city’s Human Rights Commission, and now a full-time resident of Palm Springs, we still always feel comfortable and welcome in Tacoma. In fact, we’re in the process of putting a foot back in downtown Tacoma with a purchase of a condo there. Tacoma’s openness is more unique than you find in other places. It doesn’t require a Pottery Barn or even a gay rugby team (oh, one can dream though). It’s not a homogenized version of what being gay in America means. What it boils down to in Tacoma, in my opinion, is a respect for all persons through municipal codes, city practice, support for events, and successful businesses owned/operated by people from a variety of backgrounds. That’s a fertile ground for tolerance and acceptance to take root. That’s a nice vision for America … and it seems to be working – for the most part – in Tacoma.
M McNall Mason January 9, 2013
I’m 44 years old and a lesbian. The Mix Bar in Tacoma is the ONLY gay bar I’ve been in that has windows looking out over the sidewalk. Not that there aren’t other gay bars like that but in all my life, it’s the first one I’ve seen!
That pretty much sums it up.
M Mofo from the Hood January 9, 2013
6 OUT OF 9 PEOPLE AGREE:
Being A Gay City Isn’t A Choice.
E Ed January 10, 2013
I am gay, have lived in Tacoma with my partner for over 23 years. I don’t get it. I don’t see it. Not a very well founded comment. The advocate should send their people here and take a good look.