Fabulis: A Rather Retrograde Thing Happens To Gaydom

So there’s been this new gay site, which just launched its official beta today, that got a very minor pantsload of startup funding (both private money and from the Washington Post Company) and they are starting up whatever it is that they will do. This could be fascinating! Their idea? “fabulis connects gay men with amazing experiences down the block and around the world.” (But wait, there’s already Manhunt, you’re exclaiming. Hush, class clown.) First I am positively disposed to any gays trying stuff on the Internet! So I have been suspending judgment for a while now. Second, I have acquaintances involved in it, and also I like to be supportive of other startups. Still, I cannot ignore some serious warning signs.

1. From their blog: “team fabulis are big believers in GLAAD’s mission and we encourage all our fans to learn more about the organization.” This is a huge whatever.

2. This video. (Which is actually funny too, as well?)

3. And now, this is what is pushing me away: they’re listing and rating gay dudes. Because, you know, gay dudes aren’t insanely competitive with and hostile to each other already? To their credit, staff members take up slots #1 and #3 on their list of greatest gays ever.

I guess my jury isn’t really still out? For now, I’m thinking: peace out, gays! Best of luck. I’m off to go find a lesbian separatist ashtanga commune that isn’t interested in reproducing tired social structures and supporting sad, bloated, useless gay fundraising organizations.