This very thread(among plenty of others) is more than enough evidence to say that it isn't.
I bounce between here and the other place. I'm not a prolific poster there, and I've never been one here either. I usually just prefer to lurk and observe, unless I really feel like I have something to say.
From a long term lurker's perspective:
GAF seems to be in the beginning stages of going from far left to far right. Not saying that that's where it's gonna end up, just saying that it looks like it's in the beginning process of it.
Racist/sexist posts are going unchecked, either completely or by being allowed to stay around far longer than they should.
There is a decidedly purposeful tonal shift, and it's extremely noticeable to the point where it's difficult, if not impossible to ignore.
Moderator presence(what little there is anyway) seems to be stretched too thin, and takes too long to react. Not only that, but because mods are anonymous, finding and reaching out to them takes more effort that it should. This is in addition to the fact that reporting posts, has been made to be a hassle.
All of these observations, combined with...juniors and new accounts being rushed to approval...with not enough admin presence to weed out fast enough the ones who have extremist views...GAF is still one sided. But now it's moving to the opposite side.
It wouldn't surprise me, if in a year or two, 'ironic' racism and sexism would be completely acceptable by the active members here under the guise of 'It's just a joke.' But this is only under the assumption that things continue on as they are and that GAF leadership doesn't pull itself together within that time frame.
So...having said all that, I take my leave.