Several challenges stand before us. Shown with each challenge is the IGLGU response to that challenge.
Challenge: Gymnastics carefully guards its image as a "squeaky clean" sport. Gay & Lesbian gymnasts are expected to remain "in the closet". Mainstream gymnastics organizations are reluctant to be publicly involved in gay sporting events.
An additional response to this challenge is our creation of a "mission statement"
Mission statement :
IGLGU strives to provide a safe environment for gay lesbian & bisexual gymnasts throughout the world.
Challenge: The gymnastics world is not very supportive of adult gynmnasts who wish to continue training & competition after university and world class competition years. Older gymnasts are banished to the spectators galleries, expected to write cheques to support the very teams who exclude them in favor of younger gymnasts. Besides the dearth of adult gymnastics programs, insurance is difficult to obtain for adult gymnasts and this lack of insurance is used to keep adults out of gymnastics training facilities.
Insurance availability is being pursued for IGLGU members.
This insurance is helpful in getting training centres to admit adult gymnasts.
Challenge: The Gay Games does not currently count gymnastics among its core sports.
Work continues toward this goal. There are many obstacles to overcome before gymnastics can be added to the FGG "core sports list".
It has also been realized that every 4 years is too seldom and that an annual event is needed to keep gymnastics skills honed. Work has begun toward organization of annual competition for IGLGU. An independent IGLGU meet will also help "prove the concept" for Gay Games future consideration of inclusion.
Challenge: Many gay lesbian & bisexual gymnasts are scattered throughout the gymnastics community. Finding everyone and getting everyone organized is an ongoing challenge.
IGLGU needs to hear from gay lesbian & bisexual gymnasts interested in gymnastics competition and ultimate inclusion in Gay Games in the future.
Please contact IGLGU. Stand up and be counted!
Join IGLGU ! There is no cost to join at this time.
We are temporarily funded by private donations.
Dont forget, IGLGU welcomes women as well.
If you have comments or suggestions, email me at texx@delong.org