GAY SHAME is a Virus in the System. We are committed to a queer extravaganza that brings direct action to astounding levels of theatricality. We will not be satisfied with a commercialized gay identity that denies the intrinsic links between queer struggle and challenging power. We seek nothing less than a new queer activism that foregrounds race, class, gender and sexuality, to counter the self-serving “values” of gay consumerism and the increasingly hypocritical left. We are dedicated to fighting the rabid assimilationist monster with a devastating mobilization of queer brilliance. GAY SHAME is a celebration of resistance: all are welcome.
In order for GAY SHAME meetings to run as smoothly as possible, at the beginning of each meeting, someone volunteers to facilitate. The facilitator keeps track of who wants to speak, calls on speakers, makes sure speakers stay on topic and keeps the agenda moving.
Consensus means everyone comes to agreement before any decision can be made. Believe it or not, this is generally easy. After a proposal and discussion the facilitator calls for consensus when a decision seems imminent.
Occasionally, the disagreement is so fierce that we use a more formal consensus process which includes calling for who is in favor, who objects and who abstains. If there are objections or abstentions, alternate proposals are made until consensus can be reached.
If someone believes that a decision nearing consensus is contradictory to our statement of purpose (see above), that person can block consensus. This has only happened one time in our history. Of course, consensus decisions may always be revisited in the general meeting. Usually, though, it’s all flower power and SSRIs here at GAY SHAME.
