It’s horrible news reaching us from Orlando, Florida, just before going to print: At least 49 people were murdered and dozens injured in an attack on the gay Club Pulse. The reasons are still unclear, but there are some indications that the perpetrator acted out of hatred of gays. The goal of this and similar crimes is: We should not feel safe anywhere, hide or disappear completely. Once again, the visibility of gay, lesbian and trans* life in public is a political act, independent from demands of equality or gay marriage that are based on that openness. With every CSD, every Pride, and ultimately even with parties we show that we are not and no longer willing to hide. Dancing is political!

The importance of public visibility was recognised particularly early in Philadelphia. The beginnings of an organised gay and lesbian civil rights movement here date back to the 1960s. Old photos show ladies in fine costumes and men in suits demonstrating for equality. (Report on page 18)

A different story of emancipation can be experienced in South African Cape Town: the peaceful transition from apartheid to democracy. Many social problems are not solved in South Africa, but the city is worth a visit, not least because of its great restaurant scene. (Report on page 60)

Not every party focuses on politics, perhaps least of all on the huge circuit parties that last at least a whole weekend and attractloyal fans. Daniel Segal explains the fascination of these mega parties and presents four of them in more detail. (Report on page 50)

Maspalomas, whose disreputable Yumbo shopping centre is firmly in gay hands in the evening, also parties hard. Those who get involved in the gay mass tourism commuting between beach and disco have a lot of fun here. Fortunately, experience has shown that this works for most guests, at the latest after a few days on the island. (Report on page 26)

CSDs, Prides and parties are not only available in Philadelphia, Cape Town or on Gran Canaria. Pride will also take place in Lübeck in August. And the entire southern Baltic Sea region is an easily accessible and impressive destination. (Report on page 34)

Whether in foreign lands or at arm’s length: let’s make this summer our Pride and party season, proud, loud and in public!

Tobias Sauer, Editor-in-Chief Spartacus Traveler

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