One of my coworkers is gay. I don’t agree with his lifestyle but hey it’s his life. It’s uncomfortable when he talks about his “life partner.” I listen to him out of respect but sometimes I want to tell him to keep his personal life to himself. I don’t think he really knows how I feel.
Last week he gave all of us at the office an invitation to a party. He gave me the envelope and said “I really would like you to come”. I told him sure I’ll go.
When I got back to my office and opened up the envelope, the only thing I could say was “no way in hell am I going.” He and his “life partner” are having a “gay shower.” The next day I told him I would not attend. Just the thought of hanging with a roomful of gay guys, that’s not what I call a party.
Mike is now pissed that I won’t go. He says that gay couples should be able to have “gay couple parties” just like a traditional bride and groom party. He’s now retaliating against me…bad mouthing me to other associates and even went to our boss about it. My boss is also gay so you know what side he agreed with.
Now Mike has decided to have the party at the office during our lunch hour. My boss approved it and even put up the “gay shower invitation” on our communication board, basically urging all associates to attend. He even suggested that we all bring a some food, letting us know what he plans on bringing.
Now I feel like I HAVE to go. Half of the associates feel the same way. We all fear what our boss might say or do if we don’t attend and bring food and a gift.
Some of the other guys are saying they plan on calling in sick the day of the party. I’d rather go to work and not attend the party.
What would you do?
