Weems, M: The Fierce Tribe

Masculine expression is often associated with violence. But masculinity takes on a different form when performed in Circuit parties, large-scale dance events for Gay men and their allies. Within the world of the Circuit, intoxication, erotic desire, and sensual movement combine, creating an environment that is as intimidating as it is enticing, as competitive as it is hilarious. The muscular body is both privileged and trivialized as an accessory in the Circuit, but rarely is muscle used for violence. Mickey Weems explores the dynamics of the Circuit community, its history since Stonewall, the role it has played in raising money for AIDS charities, and problems it faces due to excessive numbers of body fascists (arrogant men who value physical beauty over manners)and crack whores (participants who use club drugs with abandon). In spite of these issues, many Circuit attendees experience spiritual transcendence and a sense of communal bonding not found in any other setting. Within the Circuit community is non-violent masculine expression that can counteract the impetus for men to engage in performances of large-scale destruction associated with war and terrorism.