The Gay Okinawa support group strives to identify and address issues critical to Okinawas diverse population of gays and lesbians. Its ultimate aim is to nurture a sense of community among the islands homosexual inhabitants, drawing together Japanese and foreigner in an attempt to alleviate the pervasive sense of isolation and loneliness often felt by homosexuals living on Okinawa. The support group provides a central location for the posting of articles of interest and benefit to the community. It strives to stimulate the exchange of ideas and beliefs among the community members and other interested parties through the sharing of comments and letters, facilitating free and open dialog in a tolerant and non-threatening atmosphere. The Forum gives frequent attention to issues involving Okinawas lesbian community in the hope that they might find their voice and thus have a chance to shape their own identity and direct their own future. Other groups deserving and receiving special attention in The Forum are the islands gay and lesbian youth, as well as those who might identify themselves as mature. Also of great concern to The Forum are those gays and lesbians on the islands affiliated with the U.S. Military. While their stay might be brief, they potentially must face the greatest degree of isolation while living on Okinawa.
To be sure, the challenges facing Okinawas gays and lesbians are numerous, some quite unique. Solutions will not come easily; but with people sharing their ideas and working together, even great obstacles can be overcome. It is time for Okinawas homosexual community to join together in moving beyond the obscurity and isolation that traditions and social stereotypes dictate and to finally show its face in the brilliant light of the Okinawan sun.
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