This is just a rant of disbelief and I’ll try and keep things a little vague as to not be targeted or have the gym found out.

I haven’t been to my fave climbing gym in over 4 years. Before that, I had been going for roughly 8 years. I live in a pretty liberal city, but this gym was never one to show any sort of political views. I finally went yesterday and…. They’ve gone head first into the inclusivity TRAin.

• I had to re-take my belay test because they don’t use my belay device anymore. I used an ATC like anyone else. When I asked why they switched to only grigris on the ropes and not ATCs, they said it was to make “climbing more accessible to those who cannot afford ATCs.” 😒 they’re like $30… How about making the membership cheaper? (It’s the most expensive climbing gym in my state.) I digress.

• There are all types of queer flags everywhere. I mean EVERYWHERE. In the entrance, in the Bouldering area, the work space. And not just the LGBTQ one, but all the other colorful ones. The work space has a full on bulletin board JUST for Queer events. What about women events you ask? Oh, we have one day on the normal event calendar and it’s for “witches” not women. 🤦🏻‍♀️

• There are scannable QR codes everywhere for Queer info. One for pronouns?! Why would I need pronouns while climbing??

• There was even a sign that said “climbing is a dangerous sport” !!!! Like DUH?! Who here needs to be coddled this much? One wall just had a bunch of signs that said “you belong” “climb as you are.” “We’re glad you’re here.” “Keep being you.” Which, okay, great, because when I started climbing there it was a very pretentious spot where you had to prove yourself on the wall to be taken seriously. So at least they’ve shifted away from that whole vibe?

Side note, I was wearing a Hogwarts shirt and was climbing with a lesbian who has made it really clear she does not like men at all. I felt like a rebel.

I’m wondering when the shift happened. There was one guy I used to climb with who transitioned around the same time I moved cities. On his social I noticed he used the gym mats to perform and record himself “dancing like a woman” and I can’t help but to wonder if he had anything to do with the shift, since he essentially spent all his time at the gym.

Anyway. I’m going to continue going with my friend and maybe inquire about “witches night.” because rest assured I’d show up to that in more HP garb.⚡️