Opening Ceremonies: M.C. Robin Tyler

M.C. Robin Tyler gives her keynote speech at the Opening Ceremonies at B.C. Place Stadium.

Tyler: “This is a wonderful event – this dream of Dr. Tom Waddell’s – which has grown from 1300 women and men… (applause)… which has grown from 1300 women and men in 1982, to 3500 women and men in 1986, to over 7000 lesbians and gays here in Vancouver in 1990.”

(applause and cheers)

“And each and every one of you participating in this event both athletically and culturally are already winners, for you have chosen to be open as lesbians and gays to say, ‘We are everywhere, and we are very proud.’

(applause as camera pans across stage with dignitaries)

“The Gay Games are built on the principle of inclusion, and any person of any age, race, ability, or sex, is encouraged to strive for their personal best. These Games are international as is our movement.  We would especially like to embrace our gay brothers and sisters in eastern Europe who are finally able to step out of their closets of oppression and join us! (applause and cheers) For we are no longer quietly asking for acceptance; we are demanding our civil rights. For we are no longer victims; we are survivors. For we are no longer talking about our lifestyles; we are finally talking about our lives. Ten to twelve percent… ten to twelve percent of the children in this world, growing up all over the world, are going to be gay and lesbian, and they are not going to be grow up to be called faggot or dyke or sissy or queer like we were. We are going to save our children! (applause and cheers) This is the legacy you bring to Vancouver today: to say that we are out, we are proud, and we shall never, ever, again be invisible. Thank you, Dr. Tom Waddell, thank you!”

(applause and cheers as the crowd rises to a standing ovation)