Definitions by Manack

Canaries 

The homosexual pioneers who move into an undesirable area, carve out a home for themselves, and transform it into an up-and-coming neighborhood, or "gayborhood."

Like canaries in a mine, if they survive, others can stay and thrive, as well.

The rapid influx of canaries served as the saving grace for a neighborhood that was otherwise doomed to a future void of bright colors and Chardonnay.

Canaries by Manack February 12, 2012