Queer eye in the service of the straight guy.

I have only watched Queer Eye for the Straight Guy once, finding "makeover" shows of all stripes boring. This post, therefore, is NOT an analysis of the series. Don't have the time or interest to do that. However, a somewhat vitriolic thread ( is it possible to be "somewhat" vitriolic?) over on Americablog got me remembering and thinking about the one Queer Eye I watched.

In the episode the Queer Eye guys had the task of remaking - or rather MAKING - a home for a returning Iraqi war Vet and his bride to be. A military man was getting married. The last sentence is really all this post needs. It says everything that bothered me about the episode. However, let me be clear: the Vet was entirely deserving. An decent, honorable man who was now confined to a wheelchair because of a combat injury. His fiancee was also a sublimely kind woman of great integrity. And their family and friends were loving and lovely. No one deserves our time and consideration more than families in this situation. The episode was truly moving.

In the long journey from acknowledgement, to acceptance, to equal rights I wonder where these Queer Eye guys fit in. None of them could serve their country in the military without lying and none of them can legally marry someone they love, except in one state. Does this mean the episode was wrong or reactionary? Not one bit. It was heartwarming. However, the irony was overwhelming and unspoken.

Hattie McDaniel once said I can either make 50 dollars a week being a maid, or 500 a week playing one. She was a pioneer in her profession. The queer eye men may be pioneers as well. Time will tell - but until they are helping a gay marine (I know at least one) set up digs with his male spouse after their legal Texas marriage one cannot assume real progress has been made. Then again, they would also have to change the title to Queer Eye for the Good Guy with no Design Sense. Bravo - and America - aren't there yet.