Brian Sims says gay men speak in sexual innuendos
The gay Democratic member doesn't judge anyone who uses Grindr
By Steve Brown
Brian Sims believes gay men “communicate in sexual innuendo”.
The 39-year-old openly gay Democratic member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives is set to go up for re-election but in a recent interview, Sims said he has received “sexual innuendos” from gay men during inappropriate times.
When asked whether gay men “overstep their boundaries”, he told Queerty: “I don’t think it’s fair to say all gay men do.
“In my experience it’s far from all gay men. Yes, it happens to me. Gay men, many times, communicate in sexual innuendo.
“Rightfully or wrongfully, they bring those conversations into scenarios where it isn’t appropriate. My career has been about battling the sexualisation of women.
“Some of the understanding is born of my own scenario, though they are incredibly different. The power dynamics are not the same.”
The politician also went on to say how he doesn’t judge anyone who uses dating apps including Grindr and Tinder.
He said: “I know that I have gay colleagues who use apps to date and to pursue relationships.
“I say that without one ounce of judgment. How people choose to act sexually is entirely up to them.
“That’s not to say a critic wouldn’t try to say something about it.”
Sims – who has been described as a bear – also admitted he finds all labels “relatively harmless” and has spent a lot of time with other bears.
“I find all labels relatively harmless,” he added.
“Identities that people find within the community are camaraderie, about relating, about coming together, about fraternity.
“I’m well into my 30s, and at first, I didn’t know what to make of it, then I spent time around bears and felt grateful to be included in their community.
“They are interesting, kind, creative and a lot of fun.”