Visitors to Lebanon talk about a gay culture but what most of them see is just gay consumerism

By Diamond Walid:
guardian.co.uk, Monday 31 August 2009 14.00 BST

Beirut has been labelled the Paris, sometimes the Switzerland, of the Middle East. According to one recent New York Times article, it is now the region's Provincetown (the Cape Cod resort favoured by gay visitors). This ever-changing city seems to have become a mirror where people project their own fantasies.

In an article in the New York Times on August 2, 2009, entitled "Beirut, Provincetown of the Middle East," Patrick Healy details his personal encounters and experiences during a trip to Beirut. In this travel-style article, Healy not only narrates his endeavors in what he baptized the "party-capital of the Middle East," but also makes conclusions that incensed gays and gay rights activists in Beirut.

Westhampton, MA - August 5, 2009
Richard Ammon - GlobalGayz.com

I just finished reading (again) the lead article in the Sunday New York Times (August 2, 2009) travel section about Gay Beirut (Lebanon) entitled “Provincetown of the Middle East”.

My reaction is mixed. It’s affirming to see the nation’s leading ‘paper of record’ giving so much ink to the ‘homosexual lifestyle’. It wasn’t always so, even as recently as a decade ago. Today, the Times even prints announcements for same-gender marriages and commitment ceremonies.

http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-13466.html

حوارات المدينة في «الأميركية»: إعطاء الصوت لمحترفين لم يربطوا عملهم بحاجة السوق

Cruising, or picking up partners for sex, is an activity many gay men engage in.

However, cruising always carries certain risks.

If you are prepared and aware of the risks, you can make cruising a much safer experience. At Helem, we have been receiving many complaints from men who have been robbed by those they pick up in cruising areas. Unfortunately, since homosexuality is illegal in Lebanon, these men cannot rely on the law to protect them.

Tips and Advice While Cruising

What is IDAHO?

National Association of Social Workers

"Reparative" and "Conversion" Therapies for Lesbians and Gay Men position Statement by: National Committee on Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Issues, NASW January 21, 2000

Due to the previous political situation the international day against homophobia was postponed to the 31st of May, at Art lounge Quarintine, from 3 PM to 9 PM. the program includes Art Exhibition, documentaries, Real life cases, Dance performance and discussion Pannels

Please note that Helem has a new helpline number
24/24, 7 days a week

The new number:
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You can still call 01 745 092 during office hours