A new gay dating app is addressing the ubiquitous discrimination that’s found on sites such as Tinder and Grindr—where users often express their ‘preference’ or dislike for certain races.
Noir is creating a space for people of colour where diversity is celebrated and bigoted language is not welcome.
According to the new app’s site, Noir hopes to re-create the atmosphere of African-American night clubs in 1920s Harlem.
“Harlem’s clubs in the 1920s were safe places for all kinds of people that catered to the Black community,” the post reads.
“Everyone was welcome. Harlem clubs were the first places where Gay people were accepted and welcome. These were clubs where people of colour got to enter through the front door.
“These were places where the service was catered to Black people. They were also the only places where you can find Black, White and Other all in one place simply enjoying life.”
An example of the Noir layout on the App store. (Noir) Source: Noir
The post goes on to say that Noir has been created to help break down some of the division that currently exists in the gay community.
“Noir caters to people of colour but all are welcome. Bigotry will NOT be tolerated in Noir.
“Noir is a place for people of colour ranging from Black to Latino to Asian to Indian and lovers of diversity. Coming to Noir requires an open mind and an open heart.”
The developers add that members are encouraged to report bigoted behaviour and language.
“No \< insert race here \>, just a preference.’ will also not be tolerated. Noir is not the place for that type of language.”
In a Facebook post, creators added that Noir is about more than “just hooking up”.
“It is about building a community where we are not begging or hoping to be accepted. It is OUR place where all are welcome.”
Noir is currently available on iPhone and is being developed for Android.
