Gay Business Associations

I've just deleted my name, yet again, from the mailing list of a lesbian business association which has started me pondering on the existence of these organisations. There are many around and they all identify themselves with various acronyms, but firstly identify themselves by their sexual orientation. Some examples are: ALBA, Auckland Lesbian Business Association, GAP, Gay Association of Professionals, GABA, Gay Auckland Business Association, and so on.

Now don't get me wrong, I'm not mocking these associations for their actual existence as they do contribute to and run needful charitable trusts and support networks, but I do find it bizarre that they are named for their sexual orientation. This doesn't happen in the heterosexual world. Can you imagine the uproar if it did. Lets see, how about the Northern Heterosexual Workers Distribution Union, or the Heterosexual Country Womens Institute, Rotary (Heterosexual Division) you see where I'm going. If these organisations were to be named as such the Gay community would be up in arms screaming discrimination, alienation, but then still think it ok to have their own separatist groups. Reeks of double standards to me.

I also find the identification by an acronym interesting as well and have been thinking over a few....

Lesbian And Bisexual Industry Association
Southern Heterosexual Institute of Technology
Central Lesbians In Technology
Lesbians In Medical Professions
Southern Lesbian Urban Trust

And the list goes on.

Personally I can't see the point of identifying yourself in the business world by your sexual orientation. I work hard, I'm good at what I do, and the fact that I shag women is of no relevance to my career at all. I do however admit to a wee chuckle that I have women queueing for me to do their weddings, but that just reinforces my point that sexual preference is irrelevant in the professional world. If ever I need a lawyer, mechanic, doctor I am going to choose them for their ability to do the job, not by their sexual preference or the fact that they belong to a Gay business organisation.