"Hetero boat" to
be part of Amsterdam pride parade

When public outcry failed to materialize over a lesbian-related hate crime in Amsterdam, a group of about 30 straight people decided on a novel way to show solidarity with the city's LGBT residents: They will float a "hetero boat" down the city's canals as part of the gay pride celebration August 3-5. Coos Peterse, coordinator of the floating tribute, told Reuters July 27 that the boat is their way of showing allegiance with gay citizens and celebrating freedom in Holland.

"What always bothered me is that the public reaction wasn't that strong. I would expect a much stronger outcry," Peterse, 25, said in reference to the bias crime. "Since I wasn't hearing it, I thought maybe it was a good idea to make a statement, to celebrate with them that you're free in Holland to live to your own preference." (The Advocate)