1/18/2004: The mayor of Jerusalem has reportedly been trying to undermine World Pride, but he has no authority to stop it. Read more
World Pride will take place August 18-28th, 2005 in Jerusalem. Gay Pride celebrations are a relatively new phenomenon in that city. As the World Pride website states, "Love without Borders - Jerusalem Pride has already succeeded not only in attracting thousands of participants, but also in getting the world’s attention. It is 'a protest against hatred' providing 'a spark of love and hope'.... Love without Borders: Jerusalem WorldPride 2005 will bring a new focus to an ancient city through a massive demonstration of LGBT dignity, pride, and boundary-crossing celebration. In these times of intolerance and suspicion, from the home of three of the world’s great religions, we will proclaim that love knows no borders." Jerusalem's impending hosting of World Pride would appear to indicate that Israel is some sort of "Gay Mecca," however, it is not a terribly safe or happy place for Palestinians. Border Wall between "Israeli" and "Palestinian" territory | Read more on Indybay's Palestine News Page

Blue Star PR is a new public relations firm that works to better the image of Israel in the media, perhaps at the expense of stthe Palestinians. The company's website says, "we produce visual media that strengthens existing efforts to gain popular support and interest for Israel and Judaism...Our goal is to shape public opinion through knowledge and understanding." Earlier this year, Blue Star PR had obnoxious advertising in BART stations in cities such as San Francisco- perhaps this was this result of a Sponsor a City donor. Blue Star PR also has an Adopt-A-Campus program to combat "anti-Israel activities" on campuses in the United States. Activities such as protests that advocate struggles of Palestinians for sovereignty? Commentary in response to this feature

InterPride, the International Association of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Coordinators | Black Laundry | In These Times Story About Black Laundry | Black Laundry Reports on Indybay: 1 | 2