Originally Posted by Manx

I wouldn't say so. We're discussing American culture, not World culture. A major portion of the varied cultures found in urban centers is the higher degree of immigrants, less inebriated and generationally programmed by the American media. It is this exposure (among others), lacking in rural communities, which increases acceptance. That it is lacking in rural communities is likely to be a large portion of the disparity of understanding between urban and rural society. Urban environments are more accepting. Rural environments are not.

You can test this by donning a clown wig, singing showtunes and walking through SoHo in NY. Maybe you'll get a few looks. Try it in a small town and most people will wonder what's wrong with you.