The Gay Games are a week-long series of events intended to promote equality and show that LGBT athletes are equal to their heterosexual peers. Held every four years in different cities, the games are billed as “one of the most inclusive sports and cultural events in the world". Organisers welcome participants regardless of orientation, gender, race, nationality, religious or political affiliation, athletic ability or disability.
The first games took place in 1982 in San Francisco, California, and included 1,350 athletes competing in 17 sports. Now the event has grown to 8,000 participants from more than 50 countries, competing in 35 sports.
This year's event, Gay Games 9, has been taking place in Cleveland, Ohio, with some events in nearby Akron. Despite initial concerns that the host cities are smaller and more conservative than some previous locations (New York City, Chicago, Sydney), the cities' mayors have been strong supporters of the event. The games are expected to bring $40m in additional revenue to the local economy.