All it took was one quick picture of a sign posted in the Elbo Room bar in Peoria to circulate like wildfire through the gay community resulting in TV news coverage and rallies in front of the Elbo Room.

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There is a variety of stories circulating as to the origin of the offensive message and whether or not it was meant to send the message that gays are not welcome in the Elbo Room.  I have never been in the Elbo Room, so I am not personally able to address that issue one way or the other.  It is obvious to me that many gays and lesbians have frequented the Elbo Room at one time or another, not unlike many non-gay owned bars.

From within the gay community, there have been many speaking out in support of and against the Elbo Room.  One perspective is that it was simply meant as a joke and that the gay and gay friendly communties really are welcome in the bar.

Few would argue that if it was a joke, it was certainly in bad taste.  Joke or not, the incident reminds us that public expression has an impact.  We cannot hide behind characterizing our statments as a "joke" to avoid accountablity after the fact. 

Mr. Greg Quast, owner of the Elbo Room, has remained silent except for a written statement that was sent to WMBD FOX News earlier this week.  Mr. Quast's reluctance to make any public statement in person further fueled emotions from many who believe he should make a more personal statement, or apology, to the gay community.  Out & About has offered to publish a video statement and/or interview with Mr. Quast, in its entirety and without inflammatory commentary added; however, Mr. Quest has been unavailable for comment.

Where do we go from here? Let's consider the economics surrounding the incident. There are several gay and gay friendly bars in the Peoria area. Whenever we go into a business, we are supporting those who own that business.  Whether it's a bar, grocery store or department store, we should consider that point and support those businesses that support us.  If we do not feel welcome in a business, then it only makes sense to go to one where we DO feel welcome.  Considering the current economy where all businesses are struggling to survive, I can't imagine any business not welcoming anyone who wants to spend money with them, regardless of their sexual orientation, color, nationality or other demographic group.

Regardless of what "group" we each identify with, it only makes sense that we tend to "hang out" with others who share our interests.  I hope this incident helps to further a public dialogue where we can all learn to be more open and accepting of others who are "different" than us ... after all, isn't it these differences that make the world we live in a more interesting place?

As we put this incident behind us and move forward, let's all work together towards the common goal of accepting the diversity that has always existed, and always will exist.  You never really know who that person is that's sitting on the barstool next to you ... if you give them the chance, they might actually be more like you than you think!!!  It's a big world, and there's room for us all. 

Dave