CARNAL NATION

Tis the season for Pride, and this year that includes Baghdad, even if it will only be a small affair at the U.S. Embassy. The first-ever U.S. Embassy Gay Pride Theme Party will be held on Friday, May 29, at Baghdaddy's, the embassy employees' pub. Invitations went out on May 10, requesting that invitees "Come celebrate the start of summer with color . . . and in costume!" The invitation also adds, "Dress in drag or as a gay icon. All are welcome." Prizes will be awarded at the event for Best Dressed Gay Icon and Best Lip Synch performance. Regarding the event, an embassy spokesman said, "This is an event organized and sponsored by a group of employees. Given the lack of places to meet in Baghdad, the embassy allows groups to use its social facilities for events on a first-come, first-served basis." This news comes at a time when Iraqi gays and lesbians are living in fear for their lives, with more than 25 gay men murdered in Baghdad since the end of March because of their sexuality. At the same time, the U.S. military is dragging its feet on repealing the ridiculous "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, which prevents gays and lesbians from openly serving in the armed forces. However, on a brighter note, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton has vowed to extend equal benefits to partners of gay U.S. diplomats stationed overseas. We hope that next Friday's party is a harbinger of bigger, better, more inclusive celebrations to come in Iraq.