Coming “Straight” Out of the Closet

Credit: Provided by Gregg Kravitz

One of the most enduring and memorable political quotes of our generation is Bill Clinton’s “I didn’t inhale.” At the time Mr. Clinton said this, the world of politics was experiencing change. The 90s marked the first realizations that the future politicians and leaders of the country would be the free thinkers and lovers that had grown up in the 60s. As we head into the new millenium, this change is continuing and we are now seeing candidates from various and sundry backgrounds. Gone are the stereotypes of wholesome values and Ozzie and Harriet families. Now we see politicians with more colorful backgrounds and from more varied lifestyles. Including “alternative” lifestyles. As times change, so do people and situations—the children born of parents that went to Woodstock are now old enough to be President. As the Baby Boomer’s turned fifty, their children have become poised to run the free world. It is no surprise really, that this would include a shift in perspective when it comes to same sex relationships and politics.
Pennsylvania candidate for State Representive: Gregg Kravitz(D) is openly bisexual. Or is he? His opponent, Babette Josephs, has recently gone on record saying

I outed him as a straight person, and now he goes around telling people, quote, “I swing both ways.” That’s quite a respectful way to talk about sexuality. This guy’s a gem.

Essentially, she’s accusing him of faking his bisexuality in order to get BLGT votes. Kravitz, in response, has kept fairly quiet about his sexuality. He has been quoted as saying that he is attracted to both men and women, however, the more important quote is perhaps his response to his opponent’s accusations:

My sexuality is not a qualification for office. I bring it up only in the context that it’s important for the LGBT community to have a seat at the legislative table.

This is quite an interesting concept to consider—and possibly the first time a political race has included a charge of “faking it” as Queer. What would a candidate have to gain by pretending to be bisexual in order to get more votes. The statement being made is that the BLGT community has such an important voice that people are no longer ashamed to be a part of the community, and would even join the community in order to gain status. No matter what Kravitz’s actual orientation might be, a very strong statement regarding acceptance of bisexuality and BLGT at large is being made—and made loudly.

–

For more information, please visit these website (s)

Babette Josephs Website - www.babette.org
Gregg Kravitz Website – www.greggkravitz.com