Turkey blocked an LGBTQ cruise from docking. The reason was not security, crime, or public disorder. It was the passengers.
The Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady, chartered by Atlantis Events for an all-gay cruise, was scheduled to stop in Kuşadası and Istanbul before Turkish authorities intervened. Officials said the group’s presence was incompatible with the country’s “moral values,” forcing the cruise to reroute. Broadway star Patti LuPone, who was booked to perform onboard, said she was “shocked” and “furious.”
But Turkey’s hostility toward LGBTQ public life is not new. Istanbul Pride has been banned every year since 2015, and activists attempting Pride events have repeatedly faced police crackdowns.
The same pattern appeared at the World Cup, when Iran and Egypt objected to a Seattle Pride Match that had been designated before either team was assigned to play. Egypt’s football federation rejected activities “supporting homosexuality,” while Iran’s federation also complained. FIFA ultimately said rainbow flags would be allowed.
So where were the mass protests from Queers for Palestine?
The silence is revealing. When Israel is involved, activist groups have no problem turning global events into political theater. But when Turkey blocks gay tourists, or Iran and Egypt object to Pride symbols, the outrage suddenly disappears.
That is not solidarity. It is a double standard.
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© Divuach Ne’eman R”A, 2025
