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Our "Famous Gays" seems to be in limbo once again. I would like to take the opportunity to introduce you to someone who should be famous, but probably never will be.
Haggai El'ad (36) is the director-general of the Jerusalem Open House. This is is a communal GLBT organisation for social change which was founded in 1997. Since then it has supported and "held the hand" of thousands of people, youths and adults, and it is today the largest organisation in Israel that is concerned with the gay community. Since 2002 the Open House has led the Pride March in the city and in August 2006 it will host in Jerusalem the events of World Pride.
Haggai gave up scientific studies in Harvard University and a promising career in astrophysics and chose instead to fight the involved and challenging political struggle of the GLBT community in Israel. A few years ago he had a debilitating bout of GBS syndrome which left him absolutely helpless for several months, but he sprung back with renewed vigour.
His most inspiring work must needs be unsung. He has created secret meeting places where ultra-orthodox gays can meet (imagine a closed religious community even more fanatical than Southern Baptists). He has arranged safe haven in Israel for persecuted Palestinian gays and in many cases has succeeded in relocating them in Europe and America (what can happen to a gay Palestinian if 'found out' is almost unbelievable). He has arranged secret meeting places in East Jerusalem where gay Arabs can get together and receive mutual support - though many of them still find their way to the Open House in West Jerusalem.
In short, Haggai El'ad is an unsung gay hero.
The paradox has often been noted that the United States, founded in secularism, is now the most religiose country in Christendom, while England, with an established church headed by its constitutional monarch, is among the least. (Richard Dawkins, 2006)
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As usual, I forgot something:
http://www.worldpride.net/index.php?id=278
for those who want to know more about JOH
The paradox has often been noted that the United States, founded in secularism, is now the most religiose country in Christendom, while England, with an established church headed by its constitutional monarch, is among the least. (Richard Dawkins, 2006)
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cossie
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On fire! |
Location: Exiled in North East Engl...
Registered: July 2003
Messages: 1699
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... for giving us the chance to learn.
For a' that an' a' that,
It's comin' yet for a' that,
That man tae man, the worrld o'er
Shall brithers be, for a' that.
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