bridging the divide

Let's talk groups for a minute.

We've got breeders, straights, gays, queers, people of colour, transfolk, disabled, various levels of income and class stratification... religion, age, ethnicity and whatnot. Cool.

Now say, if one was a member of any one of these groups (and maybe two or three or more) how do we bridge the gaps that exist between? If for instance, one is a person of colour and a member of the queer community - how do gaps between those two groups get bridged? Because clearly, there aren't many formal spaces where the dominant Queer Community in Vancouver for instance, encourage spaces for and work to dismantle the barriers that exist for people of colour and queers with white privilege to get along. And by get along, I mean mingle. Like chat. Hang out. Cruise. Dance. Celebrate. Feel safe and comfortable. Desired. Make friends... you get the picture. I'm just wondering how accepting and integrated our community is of all its different elements, and what can be done to improve this?

I know there are fabulous people out there doing fabulous work and organizing, and all manner of social justicey type stuff. And, no, we don't all have to get along. I'm just curious though, how we (and by we, I mean any individual capable of understanding the gaps that exist within subcultures) make an effort as individuals, and within our own little comfort zones and groups for folks who are different than ourselves? How do we make it easier to get along? Do we build spaces for ourselves to meet across difference? Places where segregated groups can come together and understand each other - amongst our own circles? Because forget about the broader community for a minute.... how do we invite or let people in to our own homes, friendship circles and families first?

Just curious.