Russell Henderson, one of the murderers of hate crime victim Matthew Shepard, will stay in prison for at least five more years now that the Wyoming Board of Parole recently denied his petition to shorten his two consecutive lifetime prison sentences. Henderson and his accomplice, Aaron McKinney, were convicted for the October 1998 kidnapping and murder of Shepard in Laramie, Wyoming.The Board held a hearing on Russells petition and declined to forward the petition to the Governor, Margaret White, the parole boards executive director, told Advocate.com. Related President Joe Biden issues statement in remembrance of Matthew Shepard Matthews tragic and senseless murder shook the conscience of the American people. Inmates in Wyoming who have served 10 years of their lifetime sentences may submit a commutation petition (a request to have their sentence shortened) every five years. Its unclear if Henderson has previously filed petitions. Stay connected to your community Connect with the issues and events that impact your community at home and beyond by subscribing to our newsletter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Henderson pleaded guilty to the first-degree murder and kidnapping of Shepard to avoid a death sentence. Henderson was sentenced in April 1999. His accomplice, McKinney, was convicted of kidnapping, aggravated robbery, and second-degree murder later that year. To avoid the death penalty, McKinney accepted a sentence of life in prison without chance of parole or appeal.Henderson and McKinneys October 7, 1998 murder of Shepard shocked the nation. The murderers repeatedly beat the 21-year-old with the butt of a handgun, fracturing his skull. They then tied him to a fence, leaving him to die and suffer from hypothermia in the 28-degree overnight weather.A cyclist found Shepard early the next morning, initially mistaking his lifeless body for a scarecrow. Shepards face was reportedly covered in blood except for the places where tears had streamed down his cheeks. The attack left Shepard in a coma. He remained hospitalized on life support for six days before dying.While court testimony revealed that meth dealing may have brought the victim and his murderers together, a detective testified that McKinney said he had felt threatened by Shepards homosexuality. The murderers asked their girlfriends to help provide alibis and hide evidence during the police investigation into the murder. In 1998, Shepards parents founded the Matthew Shepard Foundation, an LGBTQ+ nonprofit that runs educational, outreach and advocacy programs against queerphobia.In 2009, Matthew Shepards mother Judy Shepard published the book, The Meaning of Matthew: My Sons Murder in Laramie, and a World Transformed. In May 2024, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her continued advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.In October 2009, the U.S. Congress passed the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, a law that included gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, and disability into pre-existing federal hate crime laws. The law also provided additional federal funding for hate crime investigations and tracking.The aftermath of Shepards murder was documented in The Laramie Project, a 2000 play compiled from actual interviews with local investigators and residents. The play was adapted into a 2002 film of the same name. Numerous songs have been dedicated to Shepard, including the lesbian singer-songwriter Melissa Etheridges 1999 song Scarecrow.

The distraught father of a gay teen in the U.K. says his daughter was forced to expose herself to Egyptian authorities after they expressed doubts that she was a girl.Tom Disley told The Mirror that he and his 15-year-old daughter Caitlyn, along with Caitlyns girlfriend Liv and her parents and Disleys sons, were on their way to a ten-day stay at a Red Sea resort when airport officials singled Caitlyn out and kept checking her passport then looking at her. Related Mens faces make people more uncomfortable than androgynous faces, study finds A new study found people have a positive bias toward androgynous faces but there is still a lot to learn. After letting them pass through customs, the group waited for their luggage and the same men approached again, claiming they needed to check something. Global perspectives delivered right to your inbox Our newsletter bridges borders to bring you LGBTQ+ news from around the world. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Little did they know, it was Caitlyns anatomy.At first I think the men themselves wanted to look at her intimately, Disley says, but Livs mum put her foot down and they found a female nurse. Ive no idea if she had anything to do with the airport.She asked Caitlyn to lift her sports bra and then the message was conveyed that they needed to look down there. Livs mum said, not a chance, and they compromised by Caitlyn pulling her shorts tight to show she didnt have any male genitalia. Then they were allowed to go. Schoolgirl undergoes strip search because airport security thought she was a boy https://t.co/9KZYp0WhVz pic.twitter.com/IeZm90BSlF NationalWorld (@NationalWorld) September 19, 2024Disley called the sex verification traumatic for his daughter, who said it was traumatizing and embarrassing. Ive never been put through anything like that before.The only difference from her passport photo, Caitlyn said, was her shorter hairstyle.Dad Disley added, Its been a horrible experience for Caitlyn and I think it has hit her more now that she is back home. She was able to put it to the back of her mind while they were away but there was the worry of it happening all again at Hurghada Airport on the way home. Caitlyn is a tomboy but her passport says she is a girl, and the picture is clearly of the holder, shorter hair or not.Same-sex sexual activity is outlawed in Egypt, along with indecency, scandalous acts, and debauchery, according to the advocacy org Human Dignity Trust.There have been consistent reports of discrimination and violence being committed against LGBTQ+ people in Egypt the group says, including abuse, harassment, forced anal examinations, and the forced payment of bribes. Disley says the family went public because they want to warn other tourists of the risk of travel to the country. Theyve enlisted the help of their local member of Parliament to spread the word.Caitlin doesnt want this happening to anyone else, Disley says. It could be a 10 or 11-year-old next. We are not looking to prosecute anyone. Its just were against anyone else, especially children, having to face humiliation like that.

Exposure to anti-LGBTQ+ media increases suicidal ideation among young LGBTQ+ adults, according to a new study from Vanderbilt University in Nashville published in JAMA Pediatrics.The study suggests that recent public debates over LGBTQ+ rightsand transgender rights in particularmay be harming young peoples mental well-being. Such debates have only increased as Republicans have introduced over 530 anti-LGBTQ+ bills nationwide this year. Related Pro-LGBTQ+ laws boost queer peoples mental health I walk around my city, and I see businesses that have gay pride flags and pride flags in their windows, one gay man said. Researchers examined 31 young LGBTQ+ adults from Tennessee between the ages of 18 and 24 who have histories of suicidal ideation and at least mild depression over the past year. The adults were contacted three times a day for 28 consecutive days and asked about their exposure to news and media whether they had been exposed to no media, generally negative/neutral media, or anti-LGBTQ+ media. Participants were then asked to rank their feelings of active and passive suicidal ideation and self-harm on a scale of 0 to 10. Stay connected to your community Connect with the issues and events that impact your community at home and beyond by subscribing to our newsletter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today The study found that suicidal ideation intensity modestly increased in the hours immediately following exposure to negative LGBTQ+ news. It didnt find any increased suicidal ideation or thoughts of self-harm when participants were exposed to general negative/neutral news and media.While such a small study may not necessarily reflect trends in the world at large, researchers wrote, These findings have timely implications for research and intervention, particularly within sociopolitical and geographic contexts where news or media coverage about LGBTQ+ topics is intensified.Of the studys 31 total participants, 22 were assigned female at birth, and 16 self-identified as transgender or gender diverse. Its also worth noting that the studys definition of news and media included social media, where anti-LGBTQ+ messages have flourished despite policies banning hate speech.The study echoes a 2023 study by the Trevor Project which found that anti-LGBTQ+ legislation has negatively affected 66% of young LGBTQ+ peoples mental health. On top of a growing mental health crisis among the nations youth, were also negotiating an increasingly hostile political climate that has tragically placed LGBTQ young people at the center of a political wedge issue, which is having a detrimental toll on their mental health, said Dr. Ronita Nath, vice president of research at the Trevor Project.The Trevor Project survey found that LGBTQ+ young people who had access to affirming homes, schools, community events, and online spaces reported lower rates of suicidality and mental distress compared to those who didnt.The Trevor Projects survey also found that rates of suicidality and mental distress among transgender and nonbinary young people declined among those who had their pronouns respected and those who had access to gender-neutral bathrooms and binders, shapewear, and gender-affirming clothing that help those with gender dysphoria to align the appearance of their body with their gender identity.Editors note: This article mentions suicide. If you need to talk to someone now, call the Trans Lifeline at1-877-565-8860. Its staffed by trans people, for trans people. The Trevor Project provides a safe, judgement-free place to talk for LGBTQ youth at1-866-488-7386. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at1-800-273-8255.

At least 38 states have varying voter ID laws requiringvotersto show some form ofidentification at the polls. This can present unique challenges to trans and nonbinary people if their name, gender marker, or gender presentation doesnt match whats written on their government-issued ID or their voter registration records. Trans and nonbinary voters can also face harassment from poll workers and other voters when trying to cast their ballots.Having an ID that doesnt match your gender identity or presentation should not affect your right to cast a ballot, in any state, according to Trans the Vote. In fact, it is illegal for poll workers to deny you the right to vote based on your gender identity. Related 74% of LGBTQ+ voters back Kamala Harris while only a tiny minority support Donald Trump LGBTQ+ voters are highly motivated and theyre supporting Harris. This guide will help you understand your rights, navigate potential obstacles, and ensure your voice is heard. Your LGBTQ+ guide to Election 2024 Stay ahead of the 2024 Election with our newsletter that covers candidates, issues, and perspectives that matter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Yes, trans people can voteIn the United States, your right to vote is not contingent on your gender identity or presentation. In the U.S., the right to vote is generally determined by citizenship, age, and residency requirements; though some states require photo ID to vote or forbid convicted felons from voting. Outside of those conditions, trans people are generally eligible to vote as long as they meet these criteria:U.S. Citizenship: Only U.S. citizens can vote in federal elections.Age: You must be at least 18 years old by the time of the election.Residency: You must be a resident of the state where you are registering to vote.Being trans does not impact any of these criteria. Therefore, if you meet the above requirements, you are eligible to vote, regardless of your gender identity. Transphobia Voter ID laws and transphobia: The challenges trans people face when votingBallotpedia A map of voter ID laws in each state. Non-photo ID can refer to voter ID cards and utility bills. Make sure to check your states laws to be sure.Voting can present unique challenges for trans and nonbinary individuals, particularly when it comes to voter ID laws. About half of all eligible trans voters who live in states with strict voter ID laws also lack IDs that accurately reflect their name or gender, according to a 2022 report by the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law. Some of these states have laws that make it difficult, costly, time-consuming, or impossible for such voters to change the name and gender markers on their government-issued ID. Additionally, poll workers and fellow voters can harass or intimidate trans and nonbinary voters, especially if theyre unfamiliar with these groups or if they dont understand the protocols and laws allowing trans and nonbinary people to vote, regardless of their ID. Related Trans Americans are a lot more excited for the election now that Kamala Harris is the nominee The survey shows that 48% of trans Americans are hopeful for the upcoming election How trans people can prepare to voteDespite these challenges, there are steps trans people can take to ensure their vote counts:Update your identification: If possible, update your ID to reflect your current name and gender marker. While the process can be lengthy and costly, having an accurate ID can help prevent issues at the polls. Resources from organizations like the National Center for Transgender Equality can guide you through the process.Check your voter registration status: If you are not registered, register now. Ensure your voter registration is up to date by checking your status at websites like vote.org or the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS). Make sure your name and address match those on your ID. Know your states ID requirements: Researching the ID requirements for your state can help you avoid surprises at the polling station. VoteRiders and Ballotpedia provide detailed information on requirements and accepted forms of ID in each state. You can also order a Voter ID information card that lists your states laws along with your rights or contact VoteRiders free legal hotlinebefore Election Day to ask questions.Bring additional documentation: If your state requires ID, bring that along with your voter registration card, a utility bill showing the address where youre registered, and any other ID (like a passport) if you have them.Consider voting by mail: If your state allows it, voting by mail can be a safer and more convenient option to avoid the potential stress of in-person voting. Many states expanded mail-in voting options during the COVID-19 shutdowns. Vote.org and NASS.org can help you sign up to vote by mail or absentee ballot.Know your rights: It is illegal for poll workers to deny you the right to vote based on your gender identity. As long as your relevant voter data (usually your name and address) matches one of the acceptable forms of ID, you have the right to vote. Poll workers have no right to ask about your medical history. Familiarize yourself with your states voting laws and be prepared to assert your rights if necessary. Carry a copy of relevant state guidelines, federal protections, and this informational one-sheet on trans issues for poll workers and election workers just in case. If you encounter problems: If a poll worker engages in biased behavior or language,dont panic. You can always request that poll workers speak with a local election supervisor, election judge, or with an election attorney or election protection volunteer at your polling place to resolve any remaining issues. You can also visit 866ourvote.org or call or text the National Election Protection hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683) for assistance. Additionally, you can also request a provisional ballot, but be sure to ask for follow-up instructions to ensure your vote is counted. Seek support: You dont have to navigate your voting journey alone. Reach out to local LGBTQ+ organizations for support and information. Organizations like the HeadCount, the Election Protection coalition, and many of the others already mentioned offer assistance and resources that can help you if you face any challenges at the polls. Related These queer voters arent all in for Harris. Heres why. LGBTQ+ voters who arent ready to dance the Harris Walzmay be hard to come by, but their perspectives prove the queer community isnt a monolith. Your voice mattersmake sure its heardBy understanding the challenges and arming yourself with the right information, you can confidently cast your vote and ensure your voice is heard, even if you encounter a mix-up with gender markers or an uninformed poll worker.The trans communitys participation in the democratic process is vital, so make a plan, know your rights, and vote with confidence.Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter for the latest LGBTQ news and to stay informed about current events and issues that affect the election and our community.

Four years ago, out Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg was enlisted by the Biden-Harris campaign to play the role of former Indiana Gov. Mike Pence (R) in mock debates with then-VP candidate Kamala Harris. Buttigieg, one of Indianas most prominent Democrats, perhaps had insight into Pence that other people associated with the campaign did not.Apparently, he really helped Harris prepare for her debate, and now hes taking on a new role, that of Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH), helping Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) get ready for his vice presidential debate, scheduled for October 1. Related Pete Buttigieg explains exactly why Donald Trump keeps taking about eating cats Its all part of a darker strategy, the out transportation secretary says and its no laughing matter. The Washington Post noted that Walz and Buttigieg were at a hotel in Minneapolis for a training session yesterday, taking notes on legal pads as they discussed the issues. Your LGBTQ+ guide to Election 2024 Stay ahead of the 2024 Election with our newsletter that covers candidates, issues, and perspectives that matter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today There are two key pivotal moments in a running mates time on the campaign: one is the convention speech and one is their debate performance, said former Tim Kaine campaign chief of staff Matt Paul. Kaine was the Democratic vice presidential nominee in 2016. While vice presidential debates generally arent thought to swing election results, Paul said that this years might be different since Harris and Donald Trump may only have one debate themselves. It seems this year, without a full presidential debate schedule and where this is falling in the race, it has somewhat raised the stakes of this debate, he said. Four years ago, Harris tried to dampen expectations ahead of her debate with Pence, and Walz is doing the same this week. Look, hes Yale Law guy, Walz said, referring to Vance. Im a public school teacher. So we know where hes at on that.You will hear me talk, like I have, about things that impact Americans making sure they have the opportunity to thrive, making sure that were being factual in how we talk about that. And so Im looking forward to it. I will work hard. Thats what I do. I fully expect that Senator Vance, as a United States senator, a Yale Law guy, he will come well-prepared.This debate will serve as another clear opportunity for Governor Walz to present Vice President Harris winning vision of a New Way Forward to the American people who are ready to turn the page on Donald Trump, said a Harris-Walz campaign spokesperson.

Ross Lynch hates shirts, not that we're complaining! (@) Actor and rock star Ross Lynch knows exactly how to keep his fans thirsting for more.When The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina star isn't onscreen hes headed to the stage as half of the pop rock duo The Driver Era (with his brother Rocky Lynch), where not that were complaining he usually performs sans shirt.Fresh off his tour with The Driver Era, Lynch headed to the beautiful beaches of Greece, where he showed off some very, ahem, revealing new swimwear. Naturally, Gay Twitter is having a moment.We thought it was the perfect time to celebrate all the times he reminded us why he's a heartthrob and our forever crush.Scroll through to see sexy pictures of Ross Lynch and make sure to follow him on Instagram @ross_lynch See on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on Instagram (@) See on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on Instagram

Ryan Murphy's 'Monster' is back with a brand new season!After the popularity of Ryan Murphy's miniseries about Jeffrey Dahmer, he created a second season of Monster, this time about the Menendez brothers' murders. The first trailer for the upcoming Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story dropped today and gave us a sneak peek at the new miniseries about the double murder of a wealthy Beverly Hills couple and the subsequent trial, which ultimately convicted their two sons.The Menendez brother's trial captured the nation's attention back in 1989, and now it's being recreated with a stacked cast, including heavyweights Javier Bardem and Chlo Sevigny. The trailer opens with the Menendez family posing for a picture-perfect portrait while ominous voiceovers reveal darkness hidden in the family.Scroll through to check out the actors and the real-life people they're playing on Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, arriving on Netflix on Sept. 19.Cooper Koch as Erik MenendezThey/Them actor Cooper Koch plays Erik Menendez, one-half of the Menendez brothers, who triggered a media firestorm when their parents were found murdered in their Beverly Hills mansion, and Erik and Lyle Menendez became the prime suspects. Both brothers were eventually convicted of killing their parents. Nicholas Alexander Chavez as Lyle MenendezSoap opera star Nicholas Chavez plays Lyle Menendez, the older of the two brothers. The Menedez brothers were both convicted of murdering their parents and were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.Chlo Sevigny asKitty MenendezFeud: Capote vs. The Swans actress Chlo Sevigny will play the Menendez brother's mother, Mary Louise "Kitty" Menendez. The prosecution claimed the brothers killed their parents for the inheritance, but Lyle and Erik said it was to stop the abuse they suffered at the hands of their parents.Javier Bardem asJosMenendezErik and Lyle Menendez have claimed that their father was physically, emotionally, and sexually abusive. Actor Javier Bardem will play the Menendez brother's father Jos Menendez.Nathan Lane as Dominick DunneFamed gay funnyman Nathan Lane is set to play Dominick Dunne, who was an investigative journalist who covered the Menendez trial for Vanity Fair. Dunne also produced the pioneering gay film The Boys in the Band.Ari Graynor as Leslie AbramsonThe Disaster Artist actress Ari Gaynor will star as Lyle Menendez's lead counsel, Leslie Abramson. In the '80s and '90s, Abramson was a prominent Los Angeles defense attorney who went on to write a book and was hired by Phil Spector after he fired Robert Shapiro.Leslie Grossman as Judalon SmythFrequent Ryan Murphy collaborator Leslie Grossman plays Judalon Smyth, the mistress and former patient of Erik Menendez's therapist Dr. Jerome Oziel. Smyth became a key prosecution witness because she said she overheard Erik and Lyle admit they had shot their mother's eye out, and she had an audio recording of a conversation the brothers had with their psychiatrist.Dallas Roberts as Dr. Jerome OzielInsatiable star Dallas Roberts will play Erik Menendez's therapist, Dr. Jerome Oziel, who he starts seeing after his parents were killed. Erik's confession to Oziel became a huge part of the prosecution's case against the Menendez brothers.Watch the teaser trailer below.

A 17-year-old was learning how to make bombs while planning his attack on a Pride event when he was arrested last August, according to the Philadelphia District Attorneys Office. The teen, Muhyee Ud-Din Abdul-Rahman has now been charged with possessing weapons of mass destruction, arson, causing or risking catastrophe, criminal conspiracy, attempt to commit criminal mischief, possession of an instrument of crime and recklessly endangering another person. Related Unhinged failed GOP candidate regrets Cybertruck purchase after X demonetized her The weak and gay homophobe was recently demonetized by the social media platform, despite repeatedly praising Musks Cybertruck. The FBI began surveilling Abdul-Rahman as a part of an anti-terror probe in March 2023, when they became aware of alleged communications between Abdul-Rahman and Katibat al-Tawhid wal-Jihad (KTJ), a designated terrorist organization based in Syria which has links to the Islamist militant organizationAl-Qaeda. Stay connected to your community Connect with the issues and events that impact your community at home and beyond by subscribing to our newsletter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today KTJ was responsible for the 2017 metro attack in St. Petersburg, Russia that killed 16 and injured 64, as well as the suicide car bombing at the Chinese Embassy in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan the previous year that killed the perpetrator and injured three others.Authorities accused Abdul-Rahman of planning to travel to Syria to join the terrorist group. They further allege that the teenager shared terrorist propaganda with members of the group, his WhatsApp profile picture featured images of terror group banners, and he had obtained materials to make bombs, including chemicals, tactical equipment, wiring and devices that could be used as remote detonatorsthe ingredients for the explosives were reportedly found in his trashInvestigators revealed that the teenager used his mobile phone to research potential targets, including the local Pride parade, nuclear power plants, and the popular Army-Navy football game. Prosecutors allege that he also conducted intense searches specifically focused on the Philadelphia LGBTQ+ community.Abdul-Rahmans bail was set at $5 million, and is being tried as an adult. If convicted, he could face up to 48 years in prison..

Sens. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Josh Hawley (R-MO), along with Congressional Republicans, are among a group of candidates and deep-pocketed political committees unleashing a massive ad buy on Democratic opponents who they say favor sex changes for kids without parental consent and support boys in girls bathrooms, among other false charges.The renewed focus on anti-trans messaging comes as desperate Republicans try to turn the spotlight away from the imploding Trump campaign and onto an issue they believe will motivate voters to the polls. Related Ted Cruz rages at judicial nominee in hearing for recognizing an inmate as trans Cruz repeatedly cut Judge Sarah Netburn off to accuse her of being a political activist as she tried to explain how she applied the law. On Tuesday, the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) unveiled its first ad for the general election season, accusing Rep.Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX) of pushing sex changes for kids without parental consent. Your LGBTQ+ guide to Election 2024 Stay ahead of the 2024 Election with our newsletter that covers candidates, issues, and perspectives that matter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today On the same day, Cruz accused his opponent for the U.S. Senate, Rep. Colin Allred (D-TX), of voting to allow boys in girls restrooms in the imperiled senators largest ad buy so far this year. Cruz and Allred are in a statistical dead heat in their Texas race.The slick bilingual spot from the NRCC targeting Gonzalez in his South Texas district against Republican challenger Mayra Flores employs an actor baling hay in a barn to cast the incumbent Democrat as loco for pushing sex changes for kids, when I could use that money in our community. The ad levels two false charges at once: that Gonzalez supports sex changes for kids and tax dollars are paying for them.Republicans view the South Texas seat as competitive. Cruz goes after Allred for voting for the Equality Act in Congress and against the transphobic Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act in 2023. Both measures passed in the House but stalled in the Senate.Our girls are being left in the dust, robbed of their right to compete freely, the ad intones.Allred voted in Congress to oppose Texas State law that protects womens sports. Colin Allred voted to allow boys in girls bathrooms, boys in girls locker rooms, boys and girls sports. Thats not competition. Thats not fair. Allreds campaign called out the lies as a disgusting, false attack, and another example of how Ted Cruz only wants to divide Texans, in a statement to the Texas Tribune.Cruz will say anything to distract from his dangerous abortion ban that is putting womens lives at risk, trying to raise the retirement age for Social Security and Medicare and fleeing to Cancun during a deadly winter storm, Josh Stewart, an Allred spokesperson, said in a statement.Republicans are training their attention and dollars on the anti-trans messaging and ignoring voters top priorities, including the economy and health care despite the strategys overt failure in 2022, when the GOP failed to produce a red wave in the midterms with a massive ad campaign focused on the same trans tropes.The anti-Gonzalez ad falsely portrays the moderate Latino Democrat, whos voted with Republicans in the past, as radical as well as crazy. In response, he reiterated hes never supported tax dollars paying for gender transition surgeries and never will and said Flores should mention how shes opposed lowering drug costs and healthcare prices how she supports defunding Social Security and Medicare. Lets let the record speak for itself.Cruz cohort Josh Hawley of Missouri is adopting the same late election strategy as his fellow MAGA provocateur. This week, he rolled out fifth-place college swimmer and anti-trans activist Riley Gaines to accuse his Democratic opponent of promoting a radical trans agenda in the Show Me State.Its gross, Gaines opines. Watch the latest video at foxnews.com

Judge Mary Kay Costello made history on Tuesday when she became the 12th Senate-confirmed LGBTQ+ judge appointed by President Joe Biden.The Senate voted 52-42 to confirm Costello after a day-long hearing. Shell now sit on the bench of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Her confirmation helped Biden set a new record, topping both the Obama administration and Biden administrations previously tied record of appointing 11 out LGBTQ+ judges. The 11 other LGBTQ+ judges appointed by Biden each represent diverse backgrounds and identities. Related These 11 LGBTQ federal judges are making history and are all appointed by Joe Biden They include judges from across the country. Costello is married to a woman and lives in Philadelphia with two kids. She previously served in the U.S. Air Force and was honorably discharged as a staff sergeant. She received her law degree from Temple University, where she served in private practice as a lawyer for the firm Saul Ewing and also Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld. She then served as an assistant attorney in the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Stay connected to your community Connect with the issues and events that impact your community at home and beyond by subscribing to our newsletter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today The 12 judges appointments beat out former President Bill Clinton, who had a single gay judicial nominee, as well as former President Donald Trump, who had two gay judicial nominees.The Senate Judiciary Committees Democratic majority said on X: CONFIRMED: Mary Kay Costello to the Eastern District of Pennsylvania Ms. Costello exhibits a breadth of experience and a strong dedication to public service. Shes ready to serve as a federal judge. CONFIRMED: Mary Kay Costello to the Eastern District of PennsylvaniaMs. Costello exhibits a breadth of experience and a strong dedication to public service.Shes ready to serve as a federal judge. pic.twitter.com/nBAf8pusty Senate Judiciary Committee (@JudiciaryDems) September 17, 2024Lena Zwarensteyn, senior director of the Fair Courts Program at the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, said in an email statement to LGBTQ Nation, For far too long, federal judges have disproportionately been white, male, straight, and cisgender, and they have possessed very narrow legal experiences. This is finally changing, and for good reason: Having more judges, including openly LGBTQ judges, who come from all of our communities helps to build more trust in the judiciary and brings vitally important perspectives into our justice system.The selection of openly LGBTQ judges also sends a powerful signal to young LGBTQ lawyers, law students, and other potential future judges that they belong on the federal bench and in positions of power, Zwarensteyn continued. We cannot underestimate the incredible role-modeling impact that this has on young people who will see a clearer path to the judiciary,

At least two mail carriers in New Brunswick were suspended after refusing to deliver transphobic flyers that advocated for a child sex change ban,The Brantford Expositor reported.Shannon Aitchison, who works in the Saint John area, has spoken out after being suspended for five days without pay because she refused to distribute material from a registered national lobbyistcalled Campaign Life Coalition. The Coalition has sent out three anti-trans postcards across New Brunswick ahead of the provinces October 21 elections. Related Queer kids are starting to win big civil rights victories in court! PLUS: Several celebrities are stepping up to support their queer siblings. These postcards accuse teachers of pushing transgenderism and describe gender-affirming medical care as chemical and surgical mutilation. The third and latest postcard states that no child is born in the wrong body, and that God doesnt make mistakes. Global perspectives delivered right to your inbox Our newsletter bridges borders to bring you LGBTQ+ news from around the world. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Aitchison said she couldnt deliver this postcard, as she is the mother of a trans child. She called the third flyer straight-up nonsense, said Aitchison. God doesnt make mistakes, so youre telling me my child is a mistake?I just looked at [the postcard] and thought Im not giving this to people.Aitchison is not the only mail carrier who said she could not in good conscience hand out the flyers. Five Saint John-area Canada Post carriers decided not to deliver the coalitions latest postcard over the last week, said Aitchison. She is the recording secretary for the local postal workers union.Canada Post says the material does not meet the guidelines to be considered a non-mailable matter, and thus, employees are required to deliver the postcards even if their contents are objectionable to the organization itself, its employees, or its other customers. Two of the carriers one of which was Aitchison were suspended. The other ones status is undecided, and Aitchison said that another two carriers usedpaid personal days to avoid working during the period when the postcards were to be delivered.Campaign Life Coalition threatened legal action against Canada Post after the national postal workers union claimed some of its New Brunswick carriers had been given the option to not deliver the first postcard.I am glad that Canada Post, as a federal government agency, is taking seriously its obligation to provide services equally to all Canadians. How it accomplishes that service obligation is up to CP, Campaign Life Coalition spokesperson Jack Fonseca said in response to the suspensions. Fonesca also said that Canada Post simply does not have the right to engage in viewpoint discrimination. Aitchison argues that the latest flyer breaches Canada Posts Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Charter, which mandates a zero-tolerance policy for all employees and customers.Whoever vet this [postcard] did not do a good job, said Aitchison. She has since returned to work and has been told shell be paid for the days she was suspended. Canada Post spokespersonValrie Chartrand said that internal policies cannot supersede our responsibility as the national postal service to deliver items in an email to the Expositor. Our important and longstanding role to deliver the countrys mail should not be seen as tolerance or support for the contents of any mailing, Chartrand said. We are a neutral third party regardless of our views, with limited regulated exceptions on what can be mailed inCanada.

Survivor is back for a brand new season, and the very first episode is queer AF!Not only is gay Pod Save America host Jon Lovett one of the contestants, but one of the other cast members came out to him during the premiere.The first episode of Survivor 47 starts with host and showrunner Jeff Probst standing on a beach in Fiji, talking about the rules of the game, and pretending he doesnt know who Lovett is by calling him the guy on the end.Later in the episode, Lovett ends up in the yellow tribe where all of his teammates admit theyve never heard his podcast where another castaway comes out to him on national TV in the most casual way imaginable. Im bi, Andy Rueda told Jon.Im gay, Lovett responded.We love to see people bravely living loud and proud. And what better time to come out to the world as bi than Bisexual Awareness Week!But Lovett and Rueda arent the only LGBTQ+ contestants; Teeny Chirichillo is also queer. While they havent talked about it on the show yet, Chirichillo told the Patch that being nonbinary gives them a competitive advantage over the other castaways, who are all vying for the chance to win $1 million.Growing up closeted, I had to learn to socially maneuver and keep attention off myself, which is a skill important for Survivor, they said. My secret weapon is having masculine and feminine attributes, which help me to blend and get along with everyone.During the first episode, Chirichillo also described their own outfit as aggressively scarecrow were rooting for anyone with that kind of wit and self-awareness!Although the reality competition is still overwhelmingly straight, its encouraging that there are three members of the LGBTQ+ community repping this season. There have been other queer contestants in the past, including Yamil Arocho, who became the first out gay contestant of color to win back last year, and even more who have come out after their stint on Survivor, like Parvati Shallow and Brett LaBelle.While Ruedas coming out story is beautiful, he otherwise had a pretty rough first episode, with other Survivor contestants worrying that his outbursts make him a liability, Sportskeeda reports. Rueda also admitted that he would betray Lovett to stay in the game, which didnt sit well with the other members of his team.Hopefully, hell turn things around soon so we can get a bisexual winner of Survivor!Andy RuedaSee on InstagramAge: 31Hometown: Buffalo, New YorkCurrent Residence: Brooklyn, New YorkOccupation: AI research assistantJon LovettSee on InstagramAge: 42Hometown: Long Island, New YorkCurrent Residence: Los Angeles, CaliforniaOccupation: Pod Save America hostTeeny ChirichilloSee on InstagramAge: 24Hometown: Manahawkin, New JerseyCurrent Residence: Manahawkin, New JerseyOccupation: Freelance writer

Note: This story has been updated below with a denial from Robinson.Rumors have been spreading today that Republican North Carolina gubernatorial candidate and Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson known for his bombastically extreme anti-LGBTQ+ statements is dropping out of the 2024 gubernatorial election less than 50 days before Election Day because a CNN story with numerous new accusations is about to be published.Those accusations include him allegedly peeping in womens locker rooms when he was a student at North Carolina A&T State University, saying he wanted to own slaves, and saying in online forums that he enjoyed pornography featuring transgender models, according to North Carolina journalist Bryan Anderson. Related GOP governor candidate calls to kill the left: Kill them! He also considers LGBTQ+ people as filthy demons who mentally rape children. Robinsons campaign canceled several appearances today, Fox News reported earlier today. He was supposed to do a campaign event with vice presidential candidate and Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH), but Robinsons campaign said that he had COVID. Your LGBTQ+ guide to Election 2024 Stay ahead of the 2024 Election with our newsletter that covers candidates, issues, and perspectives that matter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today The Carolina Journal reported earlier today that unnamed sources told them that Robinson is being pressured by campaign staff and the Trump-Vance campaign to drop out of the election due to a scandal that involves activity on adult websites in the 2000s. The paper notes that today is the last day candidates are allowed to withdraw from the election under North Carolina law but that its too late for his name to not appear on ballots. Whomever your sources are here, it is complete fiction, Robinsons communications director told The Carolina Journal.Robinson, over the past several years, has branded himself as a Christian conservative extremist, denouncing LGBTQ+ peoples existence in vivid and often vulgar terms. Among hismany anti-LGBTQ+ statements, he has called homosexuality an abominable sin, hascompared LGBTQ+ people to cow dung and Satanic demons, and said trans peopleshould defecate on public street corners outsiderather than using bathrooms matching their gender identity. He admonished women for not remaining chaste, made racist remarks against Black women, and denied the Holocaust.Earlier this month, Robinson was accused of being a regular patron at a porn shop in his state when he was younger, visiting one up to five times a week. Louis Money, a man who worked in a Greensboro porn shop, was one of six men who claimed that Robinsonregularly patronized pornographic video storestwo decades ago. Money claimed that Robinson regularly purchased bootleg pornographic video tapes from him for $25 each.We developed a friendship, Moneytold WRAL. He would bring pizza every night and hed hang out for a few hours. Many people remember him. Im not the only one.Robinsons campaign denied the accusation. Robinson, who now calls for abortion to be banned, once helped his now-wife get an abortion.The Trump-Vance campaigns interest in Robinson dropping out could be explained by worries that his unpopularity in the swing state could reduce turnout for Donald Trump in a reverse coattails situation where the downticket race affects the presidential race. Trump is being weighed down by a very unpopular Republican candidate for governor, Mick Mulvaney, Trumps former chief of staff,said on August 17. So Trump is going to have some difficulty in this state, in North Carolina, that he may not have in others.Update: Robinson released a video on social media denying the allegations and saying that he will not drop out of the race. The news media is at it again, he said. And my opponent is at it again.Now a story leaked by [Democrat Josh Stein] to CNN is appearing now, he said. The things that you will see in that story, those are not the words of Mark Robinson.Robinson says he stays in the race https://t.co/JbIoLWZ00m pic.twitter.com/DypWXpgEe9 Political Polls (@PpollingNumbers) September 19, 2024

In the latest development in North Carolinas gubernatorial race, North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein (D) is refusing to debate anti-LGBTQ+ Lt. Gov Mark Robinson (R) because of Robinsons extremist views. A spokeswoman for the Stein campaign said that debating Robinson would spread his vile and dangerous rhetoric. Robinson is known for adopting some of the most far-right policies in the Republican party, including calling for the calling for the murder of those on the political far-left. Related GOP governor candidate opposes contraceptives for young people He thinks they make young poeple more sexually active. Studies suggest otherwise. Mark Robinson has spent his entire public life spewing hate, lying about his record, and spreading dangerous and false conspiracy theories, Stein campaign spokeswoman Kate Frauenfelder said. A debate would only serve to legitimize him and provide a platform for his vile and dangerous rhetoric, and we wont be part of that. Stay connected to your community Connect with the issues and events that impact your community at home and beyond by subscribing to our newsletter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Robinson has been calling for a debate on X, writing, My campaign has offered multiple dates to debate my opponent so the voters can decide for themselves. The question is, will [Stein] agree to debate me? My opponents campaign is hiding behind millions of dollars in dishonest TV ads funded by liberal billionaires and left-wing special interests to tear me down. I wont let that stop me from making my case to the voters for a better future for NC. My campaign has offered multiple pic.twitter.com/Ehd1HQm7rN Mark Robinson (@markrobinsonNC) September 17, 2024Stein has previously left his position on a debate up in the air, while also saying that he expected to debate Robinson.As of the writing of this article, journalists on social media have begun saying that Robinson may soon drop out due to a pending news story. According to journalist Bryan Anderson, Robinson has canceled campaign events because CNN will soon leak a story about him watching transgender porn, wanting to own slaves, and peeping into womens bathrooms.Source familiar w/ forthcoming CNN story says revelations about Robinson include him saying things in online chats about liking transgender porn, peeping inside womens locker rooms while he studied at NC A&T and wanting to own slaves, Anderson wrote. #BREAKING: Source familiar w/ forthcoming CNN story says revelations about Robinson include him saying things in online chats about liking transgender porn, peeping inside womens locker rooms while he studied at NC A&T and wanting to own slaves. #ncpol https://t.co/tQsp3uj4vr Bryan Anderson (@BryanRAnderson) September 19, 2024Mark Robinson considering suspending campaign for North Carolina governor North State Journal reporter NewsWire (@NewsWire_US) September 19, 2024Robinson is known for his outlandish quotes and extremist positions.He has previously called for the murder of those on the left, saying, Kill them. Some liberal somewhere is going to say that sounds awful. Too bad. Get mad at me if you want to. Some folks need killing! Its time for somebody to say it. Its not a matter of being mean or spiteful. Its a matter of necessity! When you have wicked people doing wicked things, torturing and murdering and raping.Among Robinsons many anti-LGBTQ+ statements, he has called homosexuality an abominable sin, referred to lesbian celebrity Ellen DeGeneres as a top ranking demon proudly serving in Satans army, and has called former First Lady Michelle Obama a man, repeating a transphobic misogynoir conspiracy theory. He has also called the trans equality movement demonic and full of the spirit of Antichrist. In March 2023, Robinson declared that God created him to battle against LGBTQ+ rights and added, Makes me sick every time I see it a church that flies that Rainbow flag, which is a direct spit in the face of God almighty.Robinson has also said that he considers LGBTQ+ people as filthy demons who mentally rape children. Among hismany anti-LGBTQ+ statements, he has called homosexuality an abominable sin, hascompared LGBTQ+ people to cow dung, and Satanic demons, and said trans peopleshould defecate on public street corners outsiderather than using bathrooms matching their gender identity. He has also made numerous racist and antisemitic comments. He also wrote on social media, later adding, Note to liberals; Ill accept Gay Pride when you accept White Pride.

Saturday Night Live is about to return for its landmark 50th season. Between such an important anniversary and the fact that this is a heated election year, we're keeping our fingers crossed for the long-running variety show to pull out all the stops this fall. And they're already off to a great start with the recent announcement regarding the hosts and musical guests for the first five episodes half of which are of particular interest to the LGBTQ+ community. Check it out and get hyped!Jean SmartThe season premiere will be Jean Smart's FIRST TIME hosting SNL and she celebrated on Instagram by noting it's something to cross off her bucket list. Smart has been an ally and a gay icon for so much of her career that the Human Rights Campaign actually honored her for it earlier this year. What she's doing: HostingWhen she's doing it: September 28, 2024Alongside: Musical guest Jelly RollAriana GrandeAriana Grande has swung by SNL several times, both as host and as a musical guest. Gearing up for the release of Wicked, she'll be doing the former this time. And there's no doubt we'll be getting some of her fabulous celeb musical impersonations when she does!What she's doing: HostingWhen she's doing it: October 12, 2024Alongside: Musical guest Stevie NicksStevie NicksDoes it get more iconic than Stevie Nicks?? Shockingly enough, this will only be her second appearance on SNL, with the last time dating all the way back to 1983.What she's doing: PerformingWhen she's doing it: October 12, 2024Alongside: Host Ariana GrandeBillie EilishBillie Eilish is practically a regular on SNL at this point. And with how undeniably sapphic her latest album is, we can't wait to see what she comes up with for the show.What she's doing: PerformingWhen she's doing it: October 19, 2024Alongside: Host Michael KeatonChappell RoanTwo queer artists in a row!! To no one's surprise, Chappell Roan continues her astronomical rise to fame. It would have been absurd for her not to pop up on SNL this season, and it's lovely to see the folks over there jumped on this ASAP.What she's doing: PerformingWhen she's doing it: November 2, 2024Alongside: Host John Mulaney

North Carolinas Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, the Republican partys anti-LGBTQ+ candidate for governor who spoke at this years Republican National Convention, reportedly made comments on a pornography website message board over a decade ago referring to himself as a black Nazi, describing himself as a perv for transgender porn, and expressing a desire to reinstate slavery, CNN has reported. I like watching tr**ny on girl porn! Thats f**king hot! It takes the man out while leaving the man in! Robinson allegedly wrote. And yeah Im a perv too! In another comment, he allegedly describedsecretly peeping on women in public gym showers as a 14-year-old. Related Democrat refuses to debate unhinged anti-LGBTQ+ Republican over extremist views Robinson has previously compared LGBTQ+ people to cow dung and called for the murder of left wingers. Robinson reportedly made many gratuitously sexual and lewd comments on the Nude Africa website using the screenname minisoldr, a screenname he also reportedly used on other social media sites. His Nude Africa profile listed his full name as mark robinson and included a private email address he has used on other social media accounts, including ones that had pictures of his face, CNN reported. Your LGBTQ+ guide to Election 2024 Stay ahead of the 2024 Election with our newsletter that covers candidates, issues, and perspectives that matter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today CNN reported only a small portion of Robinsons comments on the website given their graphic nature, the outlet wrote. Its report included screenshots of the comments and ones showing Robinsons repeated use of the minisoldr screen name. Biographical details written by the profiles on various forums aligned with details from Robinsons own life, including his age, years of marriage, residential area, military service, and his mothers employment at a historically Black college, CNN wrote.In one Nude Africa website comment thread, responding to a story about an intoxicated woman who claimed to have been raped by her taxi driver, Robinson allegedly wrote, and the moral of this story.. Dont f**k a white b**ch! In other comments about the dedication of a memorial to Black civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. in Washington D.C.s National Mall, Robinson allegedly wrote, Get that f**king commie bastard off the National Mall! Im not in the KKK. They dont let blacks join. If I was in the KKK I would have called him Martin Lucifer Koon! In an October 2010 post, Robinson allegedly stated, seemingly unprompted, Im a Black Nazi! Later that month, he wrote, Slavery is not bad. Some people need to be slaves. I wish they would bring it (slavery) back. I would certainly buy a few. In March 2012, he wrote, Id take [Nazi leader Adolf] Hitler over any of the s**t thats in Washington right now!He also reportedly used anti-gay slurs in numerous online comments, CNN reported. In one forum filled with positive comments on a photo of two men kissing after one returned from military deployment, Robinson allegedly added the threads only negative comment, writing, Thats sum ole sick a** f**got bulls**t!When presented with its trove of evidence about his past comments, Robinson told CNN, This is not us. These are not our words. And this is not anything that is characteristic of me. Im not going to get into the minutia of how somebody manufactured this, these salacious tabloid lies.In a subsequent video published to X, Robinson said, The news media is at it again, and my opponent is at it again. Now a story leaked by [Democrat Josh Stein] to CNN is appearing now. The things that you will see in that story, those are not the words of Mark Robinson.The Carolina Journalhas reported that Robinson is under pressure from the campaign for former President Donald Trump campaign to withdraw from the governors race over worries that he may drag down support for other Republicans on the ballot. Robinson has said hes not dropping out. Robinson says he stays in the race https://t.co/JbIoLWZ00m pic.twitter.com/DypWXpgEe9 Political Polls (@PpollingNumbers) September 19, 2024Robinson has also said that he considers LGBTQ+ people as filthy demons who mentally rape children. Among hismany anti-LGBTQ+ statements, he has called homosexuality an abominable sin, hascompared LGBTQ+ people to cow dung, and Satanic demons, and said trans peopleshould defecate on public street corners outsiderather than using bathrooms matching their gender identity. He has also made numerous racist and antisemitic comments. He also wrote on social media, later adding, Note to liberals; Ill accept Gay Pride when you accept White Pride.He has also made comments denying the Holocaust and said that abortions are only for women who cannot keep their skirts on.

Ellen DeGeneres, the self-described Be Kind girl, says in her new Netflix stand-up special that she was kicked out of show business for being mean, despite taking responsibility for the implosion of her long-running eponymous talk show after allegations of behind-the-scenes intimidation, racism, and sexual misconduct.Heres the problem, she says in Ellen DeGeneres: For Your Approval, scheduled for release next week. Im a comedian who got a talk show, and I ended the show every day by saying, Be kind to one another. Had I ended the show by saying, Go f**k yourselves, people would have been pleasantly surprised to find out Im kind. Related Ellen DeGeneres announces retirement from show business Im going bye-bye, she recently told audience members. The defiant stance accompanies a vow by the out comedian to never perform again. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today This is the last time youre going to see me, she shared withthe audience at a show in Santa Rosa, California, in July. After my Netflix special, Im done.Time will tell. The Ellen DeGeneres Show began to unravel late in its 19-year run when allegations of rampant abuse began to surface. Two explosive stories about the toxic work environment published by Buzzfeed News led to an investigation by Warner Bros., producer of the program along with DeGeneres own Very Good Productions. Three top producers got the axe.But the house-cleaning and a poorly received on-air apology from the host werent enough to salvage the multiple Emmy-winning show. DeGeneres signed off for the last time in May 2022 with her signature Be kind goodbye.The Be Kind girl wasnt kind. That was the headline, she explains in the special.Despite DeGeneres pledge to stay out of the spotlight, the 66-year-old continues to produce from behind the scenes and has multiple projects in development through Very Good.Shes also been raising chickens, she shares in the stand-up.But its clear from her material in the show that DeGeneres still has a chip on her shoulder over how she believes she was treated.I didnt go into this business for money, DeGeneres offers. It was about healing my childhood wounds. I thought, if I could make people happy, theyll like me. And if they like me, Ill feel good about myself.All I can say about that is, DeGeneres adds with a beat, thank God for the money.Forbesestimated the former talk show hosts worth in 2020 to be $370 million.

(@) Log Cabin Republicans AKA LGBTQ+ conservatives have been around since the '70s and have been confusing the entire time, but the Gays for Trump crowd is somehow even more baffling.Yesterday, editor-in-chief of Meidas Touch and frequent Donald Trump critic Ron Filipkowski posted a photo of two men holding up Gay For Trump 2024 signs, complete with rainbow flags, at what looks like a Trump rally, along with the caption "Chicken for McNuggets," a hilarious reference to these men voting against their own self-interest. It's truly an "I never thought leopards would eat MY face," sobs woman who voted for the Leopards Eating People's Faces Party kind of moment.The Republican Party has always been bad news for the queer community, but Trump and the other MAGA politicians have spent the last eight years gleefully attempting to dismantle every hard-won LGBTQ+ right and protection and have succeeded more times than we can count. And yet, apparently, there are gay people out there who want to vote for Trump. Handing your support and vote over to someone who actively hates you and views you as unworthy of constitutional protections is astounding. Do what you want, but if Trump wins, you're going to have a rude awakening come inauguration day.People ran to the comments to dunk on these gay MAGA weirdos, joking that "If gays were truly in Trump's corner, they would help him with his hair and makeup" and comparing Gays for Trump to "Horse for Glue" and "Turkeys for Thanksgiving." The fact that there are queer people who support Trump is depressing, but these jokes have had us giggling all day!Keep scrolling to see the funniest reactions to these pathetically misguided gay Trump supporters! (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@)

Just because you're on the bottom doesn't mean you're not in control.Being a power bottom has its perks. I mean, getting to receive while leading the rhythm? Please. Who doesn't love that?Of course, that doesn't necessarily mean the power bottoms have it easy. In fact, they've got plenty of problems to deal with. There's dealing with fussy tops, having to have a stricter diet, and needing to keep up appearances... just to name a few.Here are 15 problems every power bottom can relate to.1. Learning the basicsEveryone has to be a baby top or bottom one way or another. Same with being a power bottom, too. You gotta learn from scratch how to lead while receiving, and there's nothing wrong with that. But it's still something you gotta work through over time, especially if you're not used to being on the bottom.Photo: Mikhail Pavstyuk (Unsplash)2. Fighting off horny topsYes, everyone is out there looking -- but just because power bottoms like to perform doesn't mean they don't have their standards. There's always a time and a place to have sex, whether with one partner or many, but fending off the pack is something every power bottom goes through.3. Having a reputationHaving a reputation can be a good thing, or it can be a bad thing. A lot of that has to deal with you and how you handle things, but every power bottom who has a specialty in something knows exactly the kind of reputation they have.4. Assuming you're submissiveJust because you like to take on the bottom role doesnt automatically mean youre the submissive one. Along with stigma, power bottoms oftentimes deal with problems of being forced into submission when they want to be the ones in control.5. Who brings what?It's usually obvious who brings the lube, condoms, and toys if you're on the top or bottom. But when you're a power bottom, that line can get murky. It's not uncommon to be a little confused about who should be responsible for certain things, so make sure to communicate clearly with your playmate.Photo: Clem Onojeghuo (Unsplash)6. Keeping it clean!If you're a top converting to the power bottom ways, this one might be a little daunting. Yes, you gotta remember to keep yourself clean. No need to go overboard, just make sure you wash up nicely and do any prep you need to do.Photo: Seth Doyle (Unsplash)7. Watching what you eatThe digestive system is a real thing, and timing is everything when it comes to being on the bottom. From making sure you fit into a window of accessible time to bottom to keeping up with your fiber, the bottom diet is one of the most common grievances.8. Pressure to performIts bad enough as it is that youre always expected to be cleaned and presentable, but when you factor in the competition, it makes the pressure to perform that much worse.9. Your playmate assumes the backdoor is open for businessMaybe it's just not your thing. Or maybe you're having a rough day down there and you don't want to receive. A good partner or playmate will respect your boundaries and honor that. But even dealing with the assumption really sucks ass.Photo: Steinar La Engeland (Unsplash)10. Directing him or her to the right spotNo wait, just a little more to the left. Wait, no, your other left. Too far. Not far enough. OK, stop there. Good. Finally. Phew.Photo: Shirly Niv Marton (Unsplash)11. Going too fastWoah, honey, it's not a race! Slow down over there.Photo: Agberto Guimaraes (Unsplash)12. ...or too slowSorry, are you in me yet? ZzzzzzzzzPhoto: Jeremy Bishop (Unsplash)13. It's still a lot of workLaying down as a power bottom means you can relax a little bit more than you would propping yourself up as a top. But there's still a ton of work involved, especially if you're taking a hands-on approach with your partner.Photo: Christopher Campbell (Unsplash)14. Being told you're really just a topNo, power bottoms play a very specific type of role: They receive on the bottom while leading or controlling the flow of play. There are so many different dynamics involved. Even if, you know, sometimes it's fun to switch up roles.Photo: Cristian Newman (Unsplash)15. The stigmaFor the stupidest reasons, stigma happens all the time (like when it happened to Emma Stone's Olive character in Easy A), and power bottoms get stigmatized for being on the bottom. It's not fair for a lot of reasons, because no one should be shamed for what role they play and what they enjoy during sex, but it's especially unfair for power bottoms, because there's so much work involved to take control on the bottom.

In a week when disturbing sex-trafficking allegations against Sean 'Diddy' Combs came to light, youd think itd be hard to shock the American people, but North Carolina gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinsons sex scandal did just that.In a new report released today from CNN, Robinson got caught having previously posted on the adult website Nude Africa where he referred to himself as a black NAZI, said he supported reinstating slavery, admitted to thinking trans porn is fucking hot, and graphically described becoming aroused by the memory of peeping on women in public gym showers as a teenager, The Advocate reports.While many people were surprised to learn that the MAGA blowhard who is constantly denigrating trans people, once called members of the LGBTQ+ people maggots and flies, and has said that marriage equality with lead to pedophilia become a human right, would be into adult content featuring transgender performers, the queer community knew the call was coming from inside the house. There has been a long and storied history of anti-LGBTQ+ politicians getting caught having gay affairs or watching queer porn, so it was almost predictable that someone who was constantly spewing homophobic and transphobic hate would get caught with his hand in the cookie jar. Robinson quickly released a video denying the allegations, but the internet has been just as fast, posting hilarious memes roasting the repugnant Republican. The jokes range from making fun of him for pointing out his ownahemshortcomings by picking the user name Minisoldr online to comparing him to Uncle Ruckus from The Boondocks and the Dave Chappell character who was a blind KKK leader who didnt know he was Black.Keep scrolling to see the funniest reaction to the allegations against Mark Robinson that prove hes a giant hypocrite! (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@)

Your perfect hook-up is in the stars.There are times in your life when what you want more than anything is to find that special someone who completes you in every way: emotionally, intellectually, spiritually, and, yes, sexually. Then there are other times when, honestly, all youre looking for is the latter.If thats the case, knowing who to put your energy into will increase your odds of finding that partner whos there for a good time and not for a long time, can be challenging. So perhaps a little guidance from the stars can help you to focus on connecting and then, well, connecting with the right people. Heres the sign youre most compatible with for a passionate and short-term fling, according to your zodiac sign. Aries (March 21 April 19) & Aquarius (Jan. 20 Feb. 18)Looking to spark a fiery passion? Then fire sign Aries and Aquarius are a perfect match. Aries is adventurous and energetic both in and out of bed. They love to dominate and conquer in the sheets. Aquarius has the most open mind of the zodiac and is up for going along for the ride in bed. That being said, their unconventional and unpredictable nature means theyre often vers kings and queens who might just flip the script when the lights turn off. While Aries and Aquarius may struggle to get on the same page long term, for a night or two of romance they make for a wild and exciting combo.Taurus (April 20 May 20) & Pisces (Feb. 19 March 20)Even when going for a one-night fling, warmhearted and loving Taurus cant help but dial up the romance, making them a perfect sexual match with the dreamweaver of signs, Pisces. While both signs on some level know this is not a long-term connection, they can both fully feel the fantasy for one night, making any connection between this earth and water sign a memory they will cherish for years to come.Gemini (May 21 June 20) & Sagittarius (Nov. 22 Dec. 21)Anytime a Gemini and Sagittarius find one another in the bedroom, its practically a guaranteed good time while it lasts, which typically isnt for very long. Both signs live for fun and are seeking new, exciting experiences and sensations, and theyre good at letting go when the time is right. Expect lots of giggling, pillow talk, and experimentation during any Gemini and Sagittarius liaison. This connection is the epitome of being here for a good time, not a long time.Cancer (June 21 July 22) & Capricorn (Dec. 22 Jan. 19)Protective and cautious Cancer can sometimes struggle with allowing themselves to be vulnerable enough to fully let go in the bedroom; that is until they feel safe and comfortable with their partners. This can make short-term connections tricky for the shy crab. Its also why Capricorns make for great partners both in the short and long term. Capricorns exude an aura of reliability, honesty, and perseverance, so Cancer can crawl out of their shell and into the arms of a grounded but passionate earth sign who, in turn, gets to play their favorite gently dominant role in bed. Leo (July 23 Aug. 22) & Libra (Sept. 23 Oct. 22)If there was ever a coupling that needed a mirror on the ceiling, its Leo and Libra, who are both delighted to find a mutual appreciation society in bed. Leo is proud and warm (and lets be honest, a little full of themself) and Libra is a great appreciator of all things beautiful. Leos ego is their number one erogenous zone and Libra is more than happy to stroke it. While Libra can eventually tire of inequality of attention in the relationship, for a short time this connection is all passion and playfulness.Virgo (Aug. 23 Sept. 22) & Scorpio (Oct. 23 Nov. 21)Think Virgo and Scorpio make for strange bedfellows? Think again. Its a case of opposites not only attracting but bringing out a new fiery side in one another. Both Virgo and Scorpio can be a bit guarded when opening up to new people; for Virgo, it comes from being too self-critical, while for Scorpio its about trust issues that run deep from feeling everything so powerfully. But when these two come together, all those walls and their pants come down. Scorpio knows how to get Virgo out of their head and feel especially desirable, and Virgos reserved nature activates Scorpios desire to chase, seduce, and conquer. While this pairing could also easily turn into a deeper connection, even in the short term the passion is effortlessly ignited between these two.

Pride flags flying outside a church in the western suburbs of Houston were torn down recently for the tenth time in two years.Our flags have been taken down again, said Heather Tolleson, head pastor at First Christian Church (FCC) in Katy, Texas, in a charitable description of the event video posted to TikTok. Its okay, were out here hanging them back up. We will continue to put up flags, over and over and over again. Related Drunken man goes on homophobic rant at bar over Pride flags He already had a warrant out for his arrest for failing to register as a sex offender. It really started during Pride Month a couple years ago, and then here and there on occasion, Tolleson told the Houston Chronicle. But now its just picked up. Whenever somebody feels the need, they just go out and tear them. Stay connected to your community Connect with the issues and events that impact your community at home and beyond by subscribing to our newsletter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Tolleson describes the repeated vandalism, which has been caught on security cameras, as a crime of convenience. Sometimes, flags are stolen around big events, like drag bingos or Katy Pride, which the church sponsors. Other times, its random.No suspects have been identified or apprehended.In 2022, FCCs drag bingo event, which the church throws to raise to raise money for programs like their gender-affirming Transparent Closet, was the target of an anti-drag protest that saw hundreds of gun-wielding protestors with Nazi flags descend on the church.Since then, FCC, a member of the progressive Protestant denomination the Disciples of Christ, has endured repeated assaults.In 2017, FCC voted to become open and affirming, which they define as welcoming persons of all gender expressions and sexual orientations to the table of Christs communion.The church is outspoken in its support for the LGBTQ+ community, with nine different flags flying outside, including two large rainbow flags one declaring America says yes to equality and others representing different identities on the LGBTQ+ spectrum. FCC is the only LGBTQ+-friendly church in the area.Not only are members of the LGBTQ community welcome here, but they can fully participate in the life of the church in any way, said church elder Chris Nelson. We dont believe that its sinful for someone to be gay or to be trans or anything like that.FCC Katy truly believes that Jesus calls us into faith in order to be justice brokers, because thats just core to who we are, Tolleson said. We say the first commandment, the greatest commandment of all, is to love others as you love yourself. Well, theres no other way to put that out there other than by example, right? Pastor Tolleson said the attacks have garnered a huge amount of support from community members, as well as churches in the area, in particular, with donations of Pride flags. They have so many, she said, theres a stockpile ready for the next time vandals attack.It will never get us down. You can steal all the flags that you want. We will constantly put them back up, Tolleson said. Were just going to keep doing what weve been called to do in this community, no matter the difficulty that we have.

There is no shortage of kinks, fetishes, and sexual preferences out there, but they can be hard to understand if youre not into them. That said, just because you dont understand something doesnt make it wrong, which is something people who practice maschalagnia know all about. Maschalagnia, also known as axillism, is a type of fetish in which a person gets sexually aroused by armpits, in particular smelling them.Keep reading to find out a little more about this popular fetish, dispel some misconceptions you may have on the topic, and most importantly, what you can do if you're interested in exploring it.Whats the deal with armpits?Maschalagnia has everything to do with the pheromones released from armpit sweat.A study conducted by the National Library of Medicine in 2013 showed that the pheromones produced by male sweat, particularly the axillary sweat in the underarm, may help boost the mood of partners and provide a heightened focus for womens sexual responses, though it's been more popularized by queer men.Los Angeles-based content creator Will Tanra of Tantric Fitness, who works with people experiencing anything from erectile dysfunction to a desire to explore a kink or fetish, discusses the familiarity with the scent and how it may enhance sexual pleasure.If you have a boyfriend, its like, Oh, thats my man, he says when I tell him I like to smell my man in the morning. Theres a familiar scent. You could pick him out of a crowd. You know when you feel that sort of connection, and it might even spark some intimacy.What about the smell is attractive?Everybody has different preferences, even when it comes down to the scents. For example, Will doesnt like his partners fully shaved or full of lotions and potions because hes attracted to authentic presentation, which is something maschalagnia practitioners tend toward.Natural body scent is part of that, he explains. In regard to Tantra, we learn how to connect with ourselves and others through all of our senses. Scent can be more heightened in some people, just like you might get more aroused when you like what you see. It can also be a part of how a person as an animal relates to their environment more.In the same way someone may enjoy watching their loved one move around, Will says the smell comes to their nose, and then their genitals become aroused, and that begins the breeding process. Theyre kind of wired in ways that are related to a primal connection.That primal connection is key. Were all animals first, says Will. Theres even evidence that through scent, there are DNA markers that let us know if a partner is a good mate to be with, based on their level of immunity. Our scent can also identify different hormonal changes. Youre going to smell differently before and after sex, and people can pick up on that.What about the misconceptions people have about maschalagnia?Anytime someone has a kink or a fetish that may otherwise be considered taboo, there will always be a long list of misconceptions people have on the topic.When it comes to sniffing armpits, Will says the biggest misconception outsiders have is that those who practice maschalagnia are dirty. Part of peoples reservations may also center around the bacteria that create the odor, which perpetuates the stigma.That is not necessarily true, he asserts. Sometimes theyre not clean, yeah, but the amount of scent people have just naturally varies. Like, I can take a shower and use soap under my arms, and 10 minutes later I can sniff my pits and it smells like armpit. Even freshly washed people can smell. The main negative that people have culturally is that a person is either dirty or imposing their fetish or their scent on other people without consent.Does sniffing pits get you high?Although everyone has a different reason or reaction when they smell someones armpit, it still has a similar effect to getting high.For Will, he uses the term huffing in the same way people may use the term for sniffing poppers or paint.I prefer a natural scent to turn me on, rather than poppers or any sort of chemical, he says. I just adopted the same word people use for those chemicals, whether legal or not, to make the armpit a little more relatable and maybe more sexy for people to try. Armpit sniffing is chemical, and the chemical reactions that take place stimulate your desire and dont require you going to the sex store and buying something that will fry your brain over the years.I want to explore maschalagnia but Im nervous. What do I do?Fear of judgment is a prime detractor when it comes to exploring your sexual fantasies, but there isnt a need to be nervous so long as youre open and communicative with your partner.When I play with somebody, I have a full boundaries and preferences and consent conversation, says Will. Ill ask people if theyre into armpits, because if someone finds it stomach churning, you want to know that. I dont want to turn somebody off before we start.Even if youre nervous, Will encourages to be vocal about your interests. You could be totally into pits and go to stuff your face in one and get a strong whiff of deodorant instead, so it goes both ways.What else should I know about my desire?Will says that if sniffing armpits is enjoyable to you, it could also be linked to a subconscious memory that gets triggered.Maybe its older males and your family smelled that way when you were going through your early sexual awakening, he says. For me, its the locker room. When I was going through puberty and started exploring my sexuality, that scent became very familiar and comforting. Scent is comforting and familiar, so that trigger could be a reason people do it.The taboo side of things can also be appealing to people because they might get some sort of thrill out of feeling naughty or that they might get caught.Still, Will says he thinks sexual preferences, gender expressions, and fetishes are overall becoming less judged and demonized, thanks to the internet.Previously, if you were into armpits, you might just think youre the only one, he says, which specifically impacted people in smaller towns more than those in the city. With the internet, people feel like theyre more normal and see their fetishes are welcomed and represented all over the internet. Events like Folsom Street in San Francisco and Berlin get bigger every year. Those types of events typically shun deodorant. What about the communities who partake?You may think youre alone in your interest, fetish, or kink, but, good news you're not. There are so many people out there who shares your preferences and desires.If youre ever in San Francisco, the Powerhouse bar has a monthly Stank night, which includes Ripe Pit Contests and Shirts-off Specials. In any city you go, a hunt for a gay bar with the name Eagle in it will also land you where you want to go, as it usually caters to leather and other kink subcultures with over 30 locations nationwide. Pheromone in New York City occurs every third Thursday at the Nowhere Bar and is specifically catered to let people put their faces in other peoples pits.At those types of places, Will says that its expected that you wouldnt have any sort of foreign or applied scent to your body and that you would just be naturally scented. He also says these are the best type of spaces to go to if youre looking to explore.Outside of some of the dedicated spaces, there are plenty of online areas where you can meet like-minded people, including the dating apps that provide you with your closest pool of options.

LGBTQ+ people and pranksters have begun spamming the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) after the agency began denying transgender people the right to change the gender on their drivers licenses last month.While trans people had previously been able to change the gender marker on their drivers licenses with a court order, last month, the DPS changed its policy, saying drivers couldnt change the licenses unless it was to fix a clerical error. Related Texas bans trans people from changing the gender markers on their licenses The policy could put trans Texans at risk of harassment and discrimination. The policy change also directed DPS employees to contact an internal email address anytime someone with a court order requested to change the gender on their ID. The email should contain the requesting individuals name and ID number. Stay connected to your community Connect with the issues and events that impact your community at home and beyond by subscribing to our newsletter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Somehow, the internal email address became public, and people began sending spam messages and harsh criticisms of the policy change. Out of 700 pages of emails released by the agency to The Texas Newsroom, a collaboration between various statewide journalism offices only one was about an actual request to change a gender marker. Another 80 came from pranksters and critics.Someone signed up the email address for newsletters from the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and a bargain hunter website called Krazy Coupon Lady. The address also received emails from QueerMeNow, a gay pornography blog, and Lovehoney, a British company that sells adult toys and lingerie, KERA News reported.While one email read, oh no someone is spamming your gestapo list wow, others called the policy evil, weird, and fascist. Others accused DPS employees of acting like a good little Nazi and a disgrace in the eyes of God.You are an abomination. An utter and complete disappointment and failure, one repeatedly-sent message said. Another wrote, The small government state when they compile a secret list of trans people. Another said, stop destroying our lives please.One had the subject line All Cowboys Are Gay and simply read, what I said. Others submitted the full script to Bee Movie, a 2007 animated film about talking bees. Weirdly, pro-LGBTQ+ spammers enjoy sending this particular script to anti-LGBTQ+ government email addresses: it was sent to a political ideology snitch line in Indiana and Utah snitch line to report on trans people using bathrooms.The Texas LGBTQIA+ community was scared and angry. Spamming the [Department of Public Safety] email seems like a natural extension of the frustration that the whole community is experiencing, Johnathan Gooch, a spokesperson for the LGBTQ+ rights group Equality Texas, told KERA.Goochs group, however, had nothing to do with revealing the DPS email address or encouraging others to spam it.The change in Texas policy is just one part of the states ongoing war on trans people. In 2023, Gov. Greg Abbott (R) signed a law restrictingtransgenderminors from accessing puberty blockers and hormone replacement therapy. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) has also sought patient information on Texans seeking gender-affirming care in and out of state.

Scarlet Envy (just one T in Scarlet because, in her words, too much T isnt good for anyone) has been a fixture in the Werk Room since 2019, as she waltzed her way into the 11th season of Drag Race, announcing that the world wants me, and the feeling is mutual. Indeed, she has risen []The post Envy-ous: Scarlet Envys Drag Journey appeared first on GEDmagazine.

Kyle Chan is a dichotomy in the entertainment and fashion industry. Though humble and understated in nature, he has become a veritable force in the industry, earning him a spotlight from many different directions. On television, hes been seen in Bling Empire and Vanderpump Rules, having a major presence on the latter this last season. []The post Kyle Chan is Shining Bright Like a Diamond appeared first on GEDmagazine.

This week,we atLGBTQ Nationasked you, the readers, what your favorite quote was from Vice President Kamala Harris during her debate with Donald Trumps debate.The quote you picked was a response to a question about democracy, posed by co-moderator David Muir after Trump ranted about how he still believes he won in Georgia, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania in 2020 despite no evidence of widespread voter fraud being found after multiple court cases.Trump said he didnt say that he lost by a whisker. So he still believes he did not lose the [2020] election, Muir said, discussing Trumps call to prosecute donors, voters, and election officials, who he claimed cheated. Muir asked Harris if she believes Trump is trying to intimidate and suppress the vote by bringing up the lie that he won the 2020 election again.Donald Trump was fired by 81 million people. So, lets be clear about that. And clearly, he is having a very difficult time processing that, Harris responded before explaining how she believes this reflects on his character. Your LGBTQ+ guide to Election 2024 Stay ahead of the 2024 Election with our newsletter that covers candidates, issues, and perspectives that matter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today We cannot afford to have a president of the United States who attempts as he did in the past to upend the will of the voters in a free and fair election, she continued. Then Harris said the quote that you all picked: World leaders are laughing at Donald Trump. I have talked with military leaders, some of whom worked with you. And they say youre a disgrace.And when you then talk in this way in a presidential debate and deny what over and over again are court cases you have lost, because you did, in fact, lose that election, it leads one to believe that perhaps we do not have in the candidate to my right the temperament or the ability to not be confused about fact, she continued. Thats deeply troubling. And the American people deserve better. About 43% of LGBTQ Nation readers picked that quote.LGBTQ Nationwill have another poll next week atour Equality For All 2024 election news center. In the meantime, make sure youre registered to vote. Your Vote is a step toward Equality for All Make sure youre ready to vote!

What to do with a walk-in closet full of drag? That was the question that Thommy Kocan (aka Patsi) pondered in 2015 when he moved to Cathedral City with his husband Michael. After a couple of cocktails with a friend, the concept of Dinner with Patsi was born. The concept was a simple one []The post Dinner with Patsi Keeps the Donations Coming appeared first on GEDmagazine.

DETAILS Date:Friday, Nov 1 Show Time: 7:30pm Cost: INCLUDED IN WEEKEND PASS or individually from $55 VENUE Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs 1600 N Indian Canyon Dr. Palm Springs,CA92262United States+ Google Map WEEKEND PASS, VIP, PRIORITY, and GA Tickets Available GET TICKETS Start your weekend with a bang atDrag-A-Licious at 7:30 PM. This spectacular drag []The post DRAG-A-LICIOUS / PRIDE MASSIVE / PALM SPRINGS 2024 appeared first on GEDmagazine.

Huntington Beach, California, is suing the state over a law designed to increase protections for trans children, making it so teachers are not required to notify parents if their child is going by a different name or using different pronouns at school.The lawsuit says that the law, A.B. 1955, does not have the force of law, and says that schools were directed to create a covert, parallel records-filing system to hide students name changes, in order to skirt parents requests for pupil records or education records to which they are entitled under California Education Code and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. Related Anti-LGBTQ+ media is worsening young peoples mental health And such media is proliferating, thanks to GOP legislation and poor social media moderation. The law has received praise from LGBTQ+ advocates for keeping teachers from having to out trans students to their parents, but many conservatives oppose it. The Republican mayor of Huntington Beach, Gracey Van Der Mark, said in a statementthat the law seeks to compel educators to keep secret from parents sensitive, private, and often life-saving information related to their childs gender issues and/or expression. Stay connected to your community Connect with the issues and events that impact your community at home and beyond by subscribing to our newsletter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today The States A.B. 1955 law compelling secrecy not only puts children at risk, it is also an unconstitutional invasion of the parent/child relationship by the State. To that end, the City of Huntington Beach is challenging the State on federal claims in federal court with the filing of this lawsuit, it says.The statement says that America First Legal Foundation has joined the lawsuit and is paying for all legal expenses. America First Legal is a far-right public interest group that has oftenopposed pro-LGBTQ+ legislation.Gov. Gavin Newsom (D), state Attorney General Rob Banta, and state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond are named as defendants in the case.San Bernardino Superior Court Judge Michael Sachs ruled in favor of the bill earlier this month in a lawsuit brought by Chino Valley Unified School District. In his50-page ruling, he wrote, There is no forced secrecy in this case; parents are still free to have conversations with their child about gender identity; and parents have the right to observe a classroom, talk to a teacher, and review educational records. Judge Sachs noted that children do not have an inherent right to privacy, so he could not mandate that school districts dont tell parents of their childs gender identity. Still, Sachs upheld the law by arguing against the proposed restrictions to be placed on it by Chino Valley Unified.This critical legislation strengthens protections for LGBTQ+ youth against forced outing policies, provides resources for parents and families of LGBTQ+ students to support them as they have conversations on their terms, and creates critical safeguards to prevent retaliation against teachers and school staff who foster a safe and supportive school environment for all students, Tony Hoang, executive director of LGBTQ+ advocacy group Equality California, said in a statement, as reported by The Hill.

A South Carolina middle school teacher filed a defamation and libel lawsuit against five people including a state representative for publicly accusing her of grooming kids after she gave her students a questionnaire asking for their personal pronouns. The defendants said her secret sex survey violated state laws and school policies that should revoke her teaching license.Mardy A. Burleson is a computer sciences teacher at Hilton Head Island Middle School (HHIMS), located in a South Carolina coastal community of 38,069 that is predominantly white, Christian, and over the age of 45. Burleson has a transgender son whose friend died by suicide years ago because they couldnt come out to their family. So, to help support her own students, Burelson began giving them a beginning-of-term survey entitled, Who is behind those eyes? Related Small town Pride organizer forced to flee state after groomer group targeted him Alex Keen wanted to show support for his local LGBTQ+ community. Now hes afraid to even enter his home. She had conducted the survey for several years without complaints and asked students about their families, preferred learning styles, favorite media, hobbies, and accomplishments. It also asked their preferred pronouns and Do you want me to use your pronouns in class and in messages home or is it private between you and me? Stay connected to your community Connect with the issues and events that impact your community at home and beyond by subscribing to our newsletter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today I promise to keep these just between you and me, Burleson stated at the top of the survey. Parents could view blank copies of the survey on their childrens Google Classroom accounts.Around January 9, 2023, an HHIMS student showed the survey to her father, David Cook, a local self-described Dad-vocate who has supported recent efforts to ban pornographic books from school libraries. The next day, Cook complained to the HHIMS principal, and Burleson removed the pronoun questions to avoid further conflict, court documents state. Cook also demanded a meeting with Burleson and school officials, but he claimed the school hid them from him. Cook then allegedly shared the survey with Corey Allen Whittington, author of the right-wing blog The Overton Report. In a post, Whittington accused Burelson of grooming pre-teen students into an overtly sexualized lifestyle and said that she transed her own kid, a reference to her trans son.[Burelson] spent years up to this point transitioning her own daughter into a son and has made no secret expressing her own full-fledged support for the controversial ideas behind gender ideology, Whittington wrote.For Burleson, Whittingtons post crossed a line by mentioning her trans son. Her son faced increased school bullying because of it, she said. On his podcast and social media posts, Whittington accused Burleson of being a predatory teacher indoctrinating 8th graders by giving secret surveys about sex to literal pre-teens and children and then telling them to keep [it a] secret from administrators and parents.Is there any other way to define somebody who encourages that type of thing in children? Whittington asked on his podcast. Is there any other way to define them than a groomer? What are you doing if not grooming them to accept kink and fetish at a young age?Court documents A screenshot of Facebook posts made by Corey Allen Whittington against Mardy Burleson on his Facebook page The Overton ReportWhittington posted a link to his blog post on Facebook around January 25, 2023. Cook commented by posting a screenshot of an article from the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) entitled, Grooming: Know the Warning Signs with the caption, Ill just leave this right here for you Corey Allen. The article defined grooming as manipulative behaviors that the abuser uses to gain access to a potential victim, coerce them to agree to the abuse, and reduce the risk of being caught.In subsequent public comments, Cook accused Burleson of violating school district policies and her employment contract for administering a secret survey to students without parental consent.Another local conservative activist, Elizabeth Szalaiwho had previously issued the district superintendent a list of books to be removed from school shelves for adult contentcalled Burelson a groomer. On her own Facebook page, she would make school personnel pay if they ever kept a secret from her about her child, promising to exhaust every effort to have their license revoked and ensure that they never have access to children again.Michael Covert, a former Beaufort County Council member who joined Szalais book-banning campaign, reportedly said on his broadcast, Beaufort House of Cards, that Burleson was a grooming pervert who is unfit to teach. State Rep. Thomas Beach (R), a current member of the South Carolina House of Representatives, joined the pile-on, calling Burleson a groomer on Facebook. Of Burlesons five main harassers, only Cook has a student in local schools. Two of the harassers dont even live in Beaufort County.Burleson explained the reasoning behind her survey and its pronoun question to The Packet. Teachers are taught to be trusted adults that students can confide in, she said, adding, A trusted adult is not always the family. If a parent asked her about a students pronouns and it seemed like an unsafe situation, she said shed consult district administrators and professionals first. Because of the increasing harassment, Burleson was placed on leave in February for her own safety, she said. She and another teacherKathleen Harper, the HHIMS literary coach and teacher of 25 yearssaid all the negative online attention made them and their families feel unsafe at home and in public.Mandy Burleson A district-issued diversity and safe space sticker that Burleson had displayed in her classroom. Cook then escalated his harassment campaign. In an April 9 Facebook post, he wrote that schools teach kids that the only safe people are teachers and admin. Everyone else in their lives are a danger to them, [including] parents and extended family.He accused Harper of being sexually abusive because one of her district database-sourced texts on modern-day slavery mentioned teenage female genital mutilation.Cook began appearing on campus, The Island Packet reported. Near the end of the school term, he gave Harper a handwritten note accusing her of indoctrinating students.During the last week of school on Facebook, Cook posted, If youre in support of giving sexually explicit material to children, its important to rememberDead Pedophiles Dont Re-Offend. Other teachers began warning Harper about Cooks presence on campus. Escorts would accompany her to her car. School officials compiled Cooks harassing social media posts and filed a harassment report with the Beaufort County Sheriffs Office .[School officials] told me to watch my back in public, Harper told the Packet. They told me he is dangerous and theyre concerned for me. They encouraged me to file a police report, which I did that day.At a school board meeting, Cook said his daughter and other students were victims and that Burleson had subjected them to lewd and vulgar materials. He claimed the school and teacher hid from a meeting with him. At a June 2023 school board meeting, he threw four bags of chicken feed at the board members because they had reshelved numerous books removed earlier that year over their alleged pornographic content, as Cook called it.Theres your chicken feed, Cook said. I give you this gift as a way to demonstrate mine and many others opinion of your lack of action. Chicken. Too afraid. Matter of fact, your behavior gives chicken a bad name.After the meeting, the sheriffs office issued Cook a no-trespass order for all district campuses, though he could still attend board meetings and pick up his daughter from school. Burleson is now suing the five aforementioned individuals for maliciously making false, defamatory, and harmful statements accusing her of a crime, which damaged her professional reputation and caused significant emotional distress. Burleson is being represented by Meg Phelan of the Equality Legal Action Fund, a pro-bono legal group dedicated to protecting members of the LGBTQ+ community, educators, and allied elected officials from defamation and harassment. Burleson is seeking actual and special damages, as well as punitive damages, The Island Packet reported. But Phelan says Burleson and her organizations aims arent financial.Were dedicated to fighting this and trying to not only educate the public, but showing the public that no American deserves to be the target of disinformation, defamation, harassment, and intimidation, Phelan toldLGBTQ Nation. The goal is for these conservatives and these extremists to really understand that words have meaning and not everything is protected under the First Amendment, so they cannot simply use defamatory language with impunity, she continued.Often, conservatives who use groomer as an anti-LGBTQ+ slur will claim that they dont mean that a person is coercing children into sexual abuse, but Phelan says the defendants used the term in that exact way. While not all states have legal definitions for grooming, South Carolina law allows lawsuits over defamation and libel if they falsely and maliciously accuse others of committing a crime.The Equality Legal Action Fund is now a nationwide network of pro-bono lawyers seeing to protect queers, allies, teachers, and community leaders from anti-LGBTQ+ harassment. If the groups lawsuit is successful, it would mark one of the first court cases where anti-LGBTQ+ activists face legal penalties for using the groomer slur. It might also give some peace of mind to Burelson and other teachers like her nationwide.We want these inspiring teachers to continue to create these safe, inclusive spaces for all of their students, particularly in these very conservative and sometimes closed-minded communities, Phelan added. So we dont want them to spend all of their time and money defending both their personal and professional reputations.

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International Overdose Awareness Day was observed as it has been every year since 2001 on August 31. But DAP Healths Harm Reduction team spreads the word about preventing overdoses 365 days a year. By Daniel Hirsch, via DAPHealth.org Given its a hundred times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than []The post Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Fentanyl Harm Reduction appeared first on GEDmagazine.

An MSNBC news panel called out former First Lady Melania Trump for posting a video defending her nude photoshoot where she kissed another woman while her husband, former President Donald Trump, threatens to roll back LGBTQ+ rights, leading a party that, as one panelist said, wants to ban books.Melania Trump said in a video on X, Why do I stand proudly behind my nude modeling work? The more pressing question is why has the media chosen to scrutinize my celebration of the human form in a fashion photo shoot? She then compared her work to master artists who revere the human shape while displaying famous statutes from across history. She called for art to be a means of self-expression. Related Melania Trump demanded $237K before she was willing to speak with gay Republicans Everyone was so honored to be with her and in her presence, said one Palm Beach gay man. Melania Trump concluded the video by advertising her eponymous new book, Melania. Your LGBTQ+ guide to Election 2024 Stay ahead of the 2024 Election with our newsletter that covers candidates, issues, and perspectives that matter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today https://t.co/ZCTwZSqZND pic.twitter.com/FH9SRFQeUR MELANIA TRUMP (@MELANIATRUMP) September 18, 2024On MSNBC, a panel consisting of anchor Nicole Wallace, professor Maya D. Wiley, and journalist Molly Jong-Fast -spoke on this video and how it relates to Donald Trumps presidential campaign, especially with less than 50 days to go until election day. They were confused about how this relates to Donald Trumps conservative messaging.Its clear Melania is out again. Shes beautiful and celebrating her naked, beautiful body. I applaud her, right? Do it. I find it fascinating with 49 days to go, that was the message that the spouse of the candidate thought was most central, said Wallace.In direct response to the video, Wallace continued, I dont know that I got all that. Yes, she is beautiful. I guess, in her view, shes as beautiful as the sculptures? You go, girl. And your husband is on the ballot. In your husbands view, this election is everything. He says the country ends and this is what I mean what are they doing? Wiley responded, It is impossible to imagine that happened without [Donald Trumps] approval, the campaigns approval who knows! Its a highly edited, developed ad. This is not something she whipped together to put up herself. The only reason Im saying that is that Melania Trump should be able to be who she wants to be, do what she wants to do, and that includes taking her clothes off. No judgment there on her.Wallace replied in support of Melania Trump, I dont know if Id ever put clothes on if I looked like that! She then continued while laughing, saying, If were at the naked part of the show, I mean, Im so happy to hear that message but, again, you are the spouse of the candidate who is running on the message that the country ends in 49 days and thats what you did today?Wiley then pointed out the hypocrisy of how Republicans have been reacting. She suggests that this is an attempt to put a more modern spin on their campaign while still holding socially conservative policies that force people to give birth. Melania Trump has famously been depicted in a set of photos nude while kissing and cuddling model Emma Eriksson. Another photo depicts Eriksson spanking Melania Trump with BDSM gear.She then asks why Melania Trump has gotten off relatively free of attacks from the conservative media, whereas Vice President Kamala Harris has been subject to numerous attacks by conservatives over her appearance. Former First Lady Michelle Obama was also under constant scrutiny for wearing things like sleeveless dresses. Jong-Fast added: This is a party that wants to ban books. So this cannot be taken in a vacuum. To say that the media is somehow the villain? You are the wife of the presidential candidate. They want to ban books, ban certain things you cant teach LGBTQ remember they were at war with Black history. They still are. This is pretty wild stuff and very, very out of the mainstream.To say that its the medias fault that she is getting shamed for her naked body is kind of wild. I would say, its not even that it just seems like theyre not working together. Its like theyre running on two different Earths. Earth One, hes running on very far-right policies. Earth Two, she asks why people are being mean to me for my naked photos.Meanwhile, Donald Trump appears to not pay much mind to his wifes work, as he indicated he has not read her book. At a rally in Uniondale, New York, this week, he said: People love our first lady She just wrote a book called Melania. Go out and buy it. Its great. And if she says bad things about me, Ill call you all up and Ill say, dont buy it, get rid of it. Trump: People love our first lady. She just wrote a book called Melania. Go out and buy it. It's great. And if she says bad things about me, I'll call you all up and I'll say, don't buy it, get rid of it. pic.twitter.com/nkZ4725bE1 Acyn (@Acyn) September 18, 2024

Republicans are up in arms about Disney going woke again, but this time, the LGBTQ+ community isn't letting the bad vibes ruin their good time!During a Tuesday segment on Chris Plante: The Right Squad a panelist talk show full of insufferable conservative pundits and airing on the ultra right-wing network Newsmax the host claimed the new Marvel series Agatha All Along is a gay "recruiting video," Them reports.Agatha All Along, a new Marvel Universe show streaming on Disney+, takes place after the events of WandaVision and follows the infamous witch Agatha (Kathryn Hahn), who is still trapped under Wanda's spell until a goth teen (Joe Locke) helps her regain her freedom and asks Agatha to take him on the Witches' Road trials to reclaim her powers. And according to the cast and creator, it's super gay, which, of course, is making conservatives' heads explode. (@) Right-wing host Chris Plante starts his diatribe about the show by calling Disney+ "a children's channel" and whining that a piece of media wasn't made explicitly for him."Joe Locke says that the show is proof that the Marvel Universe isn't just for straight men anymore. I hadn't really been concerned about that myself," Plante said before falling back on the old Republican rhetoric that gay people are grooming children. "Again, it's the kids, it's 'we're targeting the kids,' and 'it's the gayest thing,' and it's, you know, it's a recruiting video, I think."A show so gay that Republicans worry it's going to recruit people? I don't know, it kinda sounds like a something we should all be watching!For half a second, it seems like co-host Jason Nichols will be the non-homophobic voice of reason on the show, but that doesn't last."Gay people do exist," Nichols said. "You don't have to act like they don't exist in film."But then he ruined it by adding that shows need content warnings for children as though ratings don't already exist and that somehow the mere existence of a gay character would be harmful to children, saying that "they should make sure that people know that it's inappropriate for children." (@) Then the hosts continued their "Won't somebody please think of the children" rant. "We've seen it in the schools and the books and the libraries and the gender queer and the graphic novels, and it's always the children," Plante said. "Nobody cares, you know, gay people have been in film, everybody knows it, and television for decades and generations, but it's always the kids."Then, co-host Mercedes Schlapp she's married to family-values conservative Matt Schlapp, who was once accused of sexually assaulting a male staffer tried to demonize Disney for being "obsessed" with sex. "It's shocking to me that Disney, this obsession with sexuality and sex," she said. "Go back to storytelling, go back to the innocence of children. That's really where they should focus on."I don't know; maybe just say you're boring and be done with it.Conservatives on X (formerly Twitter) also ripped apart the show for being too "woke." Luckily, none of this anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric has ruined the show for the cast or the queer community. (@) When asked on the red carpet about the show being called the "gayest Marvel project yet," Aubrey Plaza, who plays witch Rio Vidal, said, "It better be, cuz that's what I signed up for," and Sassier Zamata, who plays Jennifer Kale, said "I would agree with that."Not only is Locke playing a queer character, but viewers have taken to social media to point out all of the ways this show is gay AF.Keep scrolling to see the funniest reactions to fans realizing just how queer Agatha All Along really is! (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@)

Queer people are and always have been everywhere. Queer people come in every shape, size, color, religion, ability, and age. In an interaction on X (formerly Twitter), one user had an excellent retort to an account that makes a lot of claims surrounding transgender inclusion in queer liberation movements. They're the same ones that we've seen repeated ad nauseam to try and delegitimize trans people: that being trans is new, it's a fad, and that there were no trans people around in the '60s/'70s/'80s/et cetera. But we've always been here, as made evident by the person who clapped back simply by posting slews of pictures from Pride's of years past featuring people other than cis, white gay men.Pride would not exist as we know it today without trans people, and it has always been a diverse movement of diverse people. Whether some people like it or not, the queer liberation movement has always pushed forward thanks to solidarity between transsexuals, drag queens, fags, dykes, sissies, cross dressers, degenerates and all other oppressed peoples. No amount of posturing or respectability politics will change that. We're here, we always have been here, and we've got the photos to prove it. (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) For more queer archival footage, take a look at the New York Public Library's digital collection of LGBTQ history, the GLBT Historical Society, the Lesbian Herstory Archives.

RIDE THE CYCLONE: Like gay bars, the existence of gay theatres has dwindled over the past decade or so. Los Angeless Celebration Theatre and Orange Countys Theatre Out have sadly shut their doors and San Diegos Diversionary seems to have fewer productions each year. Fortunately, one of the best San Franciscos New Conservatory Theatre []The post A Comedy of Terrors appeared first on GEDmagazine.

Hello My Sweet Tap Dancing Angels! So much is happening as summer flies by, and I just keep thinking about all the Botox and filler Im going to need after passing out in my neighbors yard all season Lurd, their poor lawn flamingo, if that things winds up pregnant Thank you for the emails and []The post Is it November Yet? appeared first on GEDmagazine.

Richard Hays, a United Methodist minister and the soon-to-be dean of Duke Divinity School, wrote the traditionalist Christian argument against same-sex marriage three decades ago. Now, hes backtracking. Related Joe Biden makes history by confirming 12th LGBTQ+ judge, the most of any presidency This trumps Biden and Obamas previously tied record at 11 LGBTQ+ judges. Hays wrote in his new book, The Widening of Gods Mercy, that he is deeply sorry for the pain caused to LGBTQ+ individuals who have been excluded from Christian churches. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today I want to repent of what I wrote before, Richard Hays told WSPD Local 6 in an interview alongside his son and co-author, Christopher Hays. Where I now stand on the question is that Scripture, read as narrative, offers a vision of a God who is dynamic and personal, and can constantly surprise us by reshaping what we thought we knew as settled matters.It was, I thought, what needed to be said in order to put myself right with God and with my brothers and sisters in the church, Hays said about speaking publically about his regrets. The whole story of the Bible, I think, regularly summons us all to the practice of repentance.Hays wrote about homosexuality in his 1996 book, The Moral Vision of the New Testament. That book said that the Bible regards homosexuality as unambiguously and unremittingly negative in their judgment. He says he deeply regrets how Christians have used his book to discriminate against LGBTQ+ people. That position has been, I would say, weaponized I dont think thats too strong a word by people on the conservative side of the evangelical churches who use it as ammunition to act in what I guess are rightly described as oppressive ways towards gay and lesbian people.Hays said he no longer views the Bible in that way. We need to read the Bible as narrative, and to take its stories as formative of our character and our role as readers and interpreters of the text.We need to back off a step and say, why is this particular prohibition taken to be normative, but other passages, including passages that describe what is necessary to do when holding slaves, are disregarded? My exegesis of those half dozen passages, it hasnt changed. I think the Bible says what it says, and disapproves of gay sex, full stop, Hays continued. But theres a very arbitrary selectivity about picking out those two verses in Leviticus as the foundation for an opinion on this subject.Christopher Hays is an Old Testament professor at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. He said that the Bibles authors didnt have an understanding of modern-day same-sex relationships when they wrote the Bible: We dont think that thats the same thing as what Paul meant or what the authors of the Torah meant in the laws.Christopher Hays also says he is proud of his father for acting as a model.I feel like his heart has always been kinder and softer and more gracious than how that chapter has been taken. So, Im just proud of him for having modeled for people out there how they can change their own minds with grace.

Republicans are blaming artificial intelligence (AI) to maintain their support of North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson (R) after yesterdays bombshell report of his porn website comments from 2008 to 2012. His comments declared himself a Black Nazi, expressed racist sentiments, admitted to spying on women in showers, and declared his love of transgender porn and threesomes with his sister-in-law.Democrats, however, are tying Robinson to former President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly endorsed and praised him. Democrats say the bad news could sink Republicans chances in the state. Related GOP governor candidate said same-sex marriage is an ungodly form of wickedness He has also written that homosexuality leads to PEDOPHILLA and the end of civilization. When asked about the report, out White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre replied, Antisemitism is never acceptable. It is wrong. It is wrong. And so, we have to be really clear about that. Elected leaders have to be really clear about that. They need to be responsible about calling that out. Your LGBTQ+ guide to Election 2024 Stay ahead of the 2024 Election with our newsletter that covers candidates, issues, and perspectives that matter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today As far as the ongoing stories and as it relates to this race, I just dont have any comment for you, she said when asked if President Joe Biden had any comment. Robinson denied making the comments and insinuated that they were somehow AI-generated. His claim is likely a lie since its unheard of for the technology to create online comments timestamped from over a decade ago while using his private accounts.Look, Im not going to get into the minutia about how somebody manufactured these salacious tabloid lies, but I can tell you this: Theres been over one million dollars spent on me through AI by a billionaires son whos bound and determined to destroy me, Robinson told CNN reporter Andrew Kaczynski yesterday. The things that people can do with the Internet now is incredible. But what I can tell you is this: Again, these are not my words. This is simply tabloid trash being used as a distraction from the substantive issues that the people of this state are facing. Here's Mark Robinson on @CNN claiming he's being framed, insisting that all the bizarre things he wrote on "Nude Africa" were generated by AI. AI is powerful, but it cant rewrite internet history from 15 years ago. Its the same nonsense we saw this summer from Laura Loomer pic.twitter.com/fcgfXXi1ub Mike Nellis (@MikeNellis) September 19, 2024In a statement released yesterday evening, the state Republican Party said Robinsons denial wont stop the Left from trying to demonize him via personality attacks because if voters are focused on policy, Republicans win on Election Day.pic.twitter.com/5qgxvQd1UO NCGOP (@NCGOP) September 20, 2024 Rep. Greg Murphy (R-NC) also echoed the comments, saying, What I read was very concerning, but given the degree of electronic manipulation that can happen these days with AI, with everything else, who the hell knows whats true and whats not.However, Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-NC) told The Hill that the details about Robinsons comments were not good. Similarly, Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC), chair of the National Republican Congressional Committee, called the report very concerning.My hope is that [the] lieutenant governor can reassure the people of North Carolina that the allegations arent true, Hudson said. He said theyre not true. I think he needs to have the opportunity to explain to the people in North Carolina exactly how these allegations arent true. Meanwhile, Rep. Jeff Jackson (D-NC) said the public is seeing an implosion by this candidate, the likes of which weve never seen in North Carolina, frankly.Normally someone running for governor, even if they turned out to underperform, wouldnt be someone who would impact the rest of the ticket, but this isnt normal,he continued, adding, He could swing a whole bunch of elections, including the presidential election.Republican former congressman Adam Kinzinger of Illinois, who has endorsed Harris, told CNN, This is devastating from a campaign perspective. Obviously, hell lose North Carolina. But the Trump campaign ought to be very concerned because if there are people disheartened by him, theyll either not show up or maybe theyll vote for Kamala. Robinson was already polling far behind his Democratic opponent, state Attorney General Josh Stein, before the scandal broke. Political pundits say that the new wave of bad press could cause a reverse coattails effect that drags down Trumps and other Republicans chances of winning the state.I think youre going to see a bunch of Republicans who strongly endorsed Robinson start to walk it back, Jackson told CNN. Robinson was the person you wanted at your fundraiser if you were a Republican in North Carolina for the last several years. They all have photos with him. They all heaped praise as soon as he started running. I think theyre going to have to start walking that back.The Harris-Walz campaign quickly posted numerous social media posts reminding voters of former President Donald Trumps repeated appearances with and endorsement of Robinson. Trump called him better than [Black civil rights icon] Martin Luther King and Martin Luther King on steroids.Best friends pic.twitter.com/baS5sRfzIo Kamala HQ (@KamalaHQ) September 19, 2024 On Friday afternoon, the Harris campaign posted a new 30-second political ad highlighting Robinsons comments against abortion and his belief that the procedure is only for women who cant keep their skirts on.New ad were now airing across North Carolina https://t.co/NrvGNqaAYo pic.twitter.com/ECIkYpc5w6 Kamala HQ (@KamalaHQ) September 20, 2024The Trump campaign issued a statement that didnt mention Robinson or the accusations.President Trumps campaign is focused on winning the White House and saving this country. North Carolina is an vital part of that plan, spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said in the statement. We are confident that as voters compare the Trump record of a strong economy, low inflation, a secure border, and safe streets, with the failures of Biden-Harris, then President Trump will win the Tarheel State once again. We will not take our eye off the ball.This is not good for them for a very close state, he continued. It could bring down some of the enthusiasm. I mean, this is like a gut punch to anybody whos a Republican in North Carolina to learn this. In a race thats gonna be so close, any kind of an attack on motivation can make a huge difference.Robinson has previously said that he considers LGBTQ+ people as filthy demons who mentally rape children. Among hismany anti-LGBTQ+ statements, he has called homosexuality an abominable sin, hascompared LGBTQ+ people to cow dung, and Satanic demons, and said trans peopleshould defecate on public street corners outsiderather than using bathrooms matching their gender identity. He has also made numerous racist and antisemitic comments. He also wrote on social media, later adding, Note to liberals; Ill accept Gay Pride when you accept White Pride.He has also made comments denying the Holocaust and said thatabortions are only for women who cannot keep their skirts on.

A transgender model and popular influencer in the nation of Georgia was stabbed to death in her apartment in a premeditated attack, according to authorities, a day after Parliament passed a sweeping bill aimed at erasing LGBTQ+ identity in the former Soviet republic.Kesaria Abramidze, 37, was killed in the knife attack on Wednesday, following the far-right Georgian Dream partys winning vote on the bill modeled on Russias gay propaganda law. Related Georgia approves terrible sweeping anti-LGBTQ+ legislation The proposed measures are modeled on Vladimir Putins efforts to erase LGBTQ+ identity in Russia. The law will provide a legal basis for Georgian authorities to outlaw Pride events, the rainbow flag, and public displays of affection, as well as impose censorship of films and books. It restates an existing ban on same-sex marriage and outlaws gender-affirming surgery in the country. Global perspectives delivered right to your inbox Our newsletter bridges borders to bring you LGBTQ+ news from around the world. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Georgia already bans same-sex marriage and gay people adopting children.One activist described the legislation as the most terrible thing to happen to the LGBT community in Georgia.Abramidze made history as the first person to come out publicly in the country as transgender and represented Georgia at the Miss Trans Star International pageant in 2018. She had more than half a million followers on Instagram. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kesaria Abramidze (@kesaria_official)Georgian media reports that the police have arrested a 26-year-old male suspect in the killing, which the Ministry of Internal Affairs described as a premeditated murder committed with particular cruelty and aggravating circumstances on gender grounds. Abramidze suffered multiple stab wounds in the attack.Georgia President Salome Zurabishvili, who opposed the anti-LGBTQ+ legislation passed by Parliament on Tuesday but holds only ceremonial powers condemned the horrific murder in a post to Facebook, saying the tragedy must awaken Georgian society.Abramidze has been an outspoken critic of the government in the past.No to the femicide that has become so frequent in our country! she posted earlier this year, according to Al Jazeera.The model and actress was forced to flee the country in April, she said, following physical attacks from a former partner.Per reports from local outlet Jam News, surveillance footage shows the murder suspect waiting for an elevator in Abramidzes building and fleeing 15 minutes later down the stairs. Authorities say theyve obtained the knife they believe was used in the killing.

Why rely on your hands (or your mouth) when you can use toys?Sex is fun, whether you're alone or with any number of other people.Unfortunately, sex can get a little boring with the same old routine. Luckily, there are plenty of toys out there to help you and your man (or men) spice things up! Here are 15 toys sex toys to use on him we recommend that will really steam things up.Edible UnderwearLook, everybody has a sweet tooth every so often. We all need a little sugar here and there. Why not combine two pleasures with one? Get some edible underwear to eat off of him, or to have him eat off of you. It's slow, it's sweet, and it will set the mood for anything you need.Nipple ClampsThis one is for those who like to get a little more freaky, or those who like to have a little more pain. Nipple clamps add a lot of sensation to one of the most sensitive areas on the body, and can add miles of fun for the interaction(s) you'll have.Prostate ToysIs he new to anal? Needs some time to get comfortable? These toys are perfect for any guy's first time playing around down there. Coming in various styles that allow for slow or fast stimulation, this kit is perfect for watching him go wild. Grab the Intro to Prostate Kit over here.FleshjackThe fleshjack is a masturbation tool thats meant to feel like real skin. You both can take a turn on the jack, if youd like. Its the easiest way to feel like theres a threesome without actually having one.Handcuffs/restraintsIf youre exploring with your partner, it might be fun to play around a little with restraints. While rope (keep reading) adds a lot to the experience, theres also something special about getting your hands cuffed against something, or perhaps even your feet. Sex swingIf youve never had sex in a sex swing, youre really missing out. Despite their size, theyre usually pretty easy to set up, take down, and keep discrete. Could also be a fun addition to incorporate the handcuffs.Cock RingCock rings slow the blood flow to the penis, making erections last longer. Need we say more? Just be careful: Doctors recommend 30 minutes at a time.Cock SheathThese things stimulate everything down there once they fit around your man. Perfect for sex, especially anal, and sure to drive him wild whatever you do together. Check one out over on AdamMale.Sex DiceWant to add a little spontaneity into the bedroom? Pick up some sex dice! The premise is simple: roll, get a sexy action, and do it to your partner. We recommend The Big Gay Review's look at the Lovehoney set for a little more information.EggsThe perfect anal plug. Lube up and slip one inside of him. He'll be going wild for you in no time. Feel free to grab a favorite of ours over here.Finger SleevesLooking to tease him all over, from his chest to his crotch to his ass? These finger sleeves are perfect for stimulation. They even work for anal, but don't expect to go too deep with them. You can check out the pack over on Adam & Eve.ThongsClothing can make for great toys, too. Slap on a thong and watch him go from 0 to 60 for you. We recommend this "wet" look, which definitely is a double meaning.RopeHow could you have a gay sex toy list without rope? Yes, rope isn't the easiest bedroom toy to figure out, but it's one of the funnest. Pin your partner down, tie his hands between his back, or even restrain him to a bed. It's all good. We suggest the Twisted Monk Sample Pack to figure out which style of rope you like the most while figuring out what you want.Vibrating PenetratorThe more features, the more fun, right? This 8 inch penetrator comes with ten functions and a boost button. Never underestimate the power of a vibrator on your man. Grab it here!The Magic WandThis toy is popular among cis and trans women, but you'll quickly find its smooth sensations will drive any boy wild. Experiment a bit, find his pleasure spot, and watch him get hot for you with this totally-not-a-sex-toy massager. Check it out here on Amazon.

After a long wait, our first look at season two of Wednesday is finally here!A mixture of clips from the upcoming episodes and behind-the-scenes footage make up the 59-second teaser trailer released on Thursday. "This season is going to be bigger and more twisted than you can ever imagine," Catherine Zeta-Jones, who plays Morticia Addams, says with the iconic Addams Family snap of her fingers.Most of the clips center around Nevermore Academy, the school Wednesday (Jenna Ortega) began attending in the first season. A few feature Wednesday herself, along with a voice over in which she says, "If we showed you any more, your eyes would bleed, and I'm not that generous."Wednesday quickly became a fan favorite hit when the first eight episodes were released back in 2022. The wait for more episodes has been a lengthy onesomething that's become frustratingly more common in the era of streaming. But fans are excited to finally have something tangible as they look forward to the release of season two, and, specifically, more Wednesday and Enid. (@) (@) (@) (@) Ortega, Zeta-Jones, Emm Myers, Joy Sunday, Hunter Doohan, and Luis Luis Guzmn are among those reprising their roles in the upcoming season. Steve Buscemi, Billie Piper, and Thandiwe Newton will be joining, with Joanna Lumley, Fred Armison, Christopher Lloyd, and Heather Matarazzo in guest starring roles.As for precisely when Wednesday will air, we unfortunately still don't know. But you can expect to see this dastardly little darling back on your screen sometime in 2025.

Late-night comedians are having a field day with the revelation that North Carolina Lt. Gov Mark Robinson (R) is a self-admitted Nazi, a Peeping Tom and a lover of trans porn.Yesterday, CNN reported that Robinson regularly posted sexually graphic comments on the porn site Nude Africa including racist comments aligning himself with Nazis and the KKK, admissions of secretly peeping on women in public gym showers as a 14-year-old, and his love of tr**ny on girl porn. Related MAGA extremist Mark Robinson called himself Black Nazi & perv for trans porn In one post, he allegedly described peeping on women in the shower. In another, he allegedly called a Black civil rights leader Martin Lucifer Koon. Last night, the satirical news program The Daily Show played a clip of Robinson recently claiming that there are only two genders. Stay connected to your community Connect with the issues and events that impact your community at home and beyond by subscribing to our newsletter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Afterward, anchorman Ronny Chieng joked, I guess there are more than two genders when its time to jerk it. It says that right in the Bible, right? If you couldnt read it, its cause the pages were stuck together. At first, Chieng said Robinsons comments could turn off the Republican voter base, but then he added, So, this guy called himself a Nazi who likes Hitler and slaveryI take it back, I think maybe his base will still like it. Chieng also made fun of Robinson for even using the comments section of a porn site, wondering why he would even be on there talking about his political views. Late night host Stephen Colbert also took shots at Robinson. [Robinson] referred to himself as a Black Nazi. Meaning, Donald Trump might say hes a very fine person, but would not rent an apartment to him, Colbert joked, referencing both Trumps infamous August 15, 2017 comments that there were very fine people involved in a Charlottesville, Virginia white supremacist rally and also the infamous 1973 federal lawsuit brought againstTrump for alleged anti-Black discrimination in hishousing developments.Colbert called Robinsons comments off-topic for a porn message board, adding, Mark, come on, stay focused. Were not talking about Hitler right now. Were debating if that delivery man was fairly compensated for the pizza he delivered with extra sausage.He also riffed on Robinsons self-admitted history of being a Peeping Tom, joking, That is going to be a tough one for the GOP to defend. Um, when he said he was peeping on women, he meant he was tossing bright yellow-pink marshmallows on the ladies. Happy Easter!Peeps are a popular brand of Easter holiday marshmallow candy in the shape of birds.

Ryan Murphys latest foray into the true crime genre premiered yesterday, and the star-studded cast was on the red carpet to celebrate!After focusing on Jeffrey Dahmer for the first season of Monsters, for the second season, Murphy is tackling a brutal murder from 1989. Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story chronicles the events that led to Lyle and Erik killing their parents and the headline-making trial that followed, and stars Cooper Koch and and Nicholas Alexander Chavez as the titular brother, with Chlo Sevigny and Javier Bardem playing their parents.The whole cast, including Nathan Lane, Ari Graynor, and frequent Murphy collaborator Leslie Grossman, all appeared on the red carpet at the L.A. premiere of the new Netflix series.I think it was easy for people in the beginning to think these two spoiled rich kids will kill their parents for the money, for the inheritance, but its much more complicated, Lane, who plays Vanity Fair reporter Dominick Dunne told The Hollywood Reporter on the carpet. It doesnt change the fact that they committed this horrific act, but I think maybe you start to understand what led to that.Season three of the controversial show is already in the works and will feature Charlie Hannam playing serial killer Ed Gein.All nine episodes of Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story are now available on Netflix.

While often considered to be the realm of childrens programming, gay animation has long been at the forefront of telling complex, adult, and often queer stories with shows like Sailor Moon. In recent years, things have only gotten better. Series like The Owl House have given animated life to bi awakenings, and even SpongeBob SquarePants has come out. Its no wonder that the LGBTQ+ family cant get enough of the medium.From sapphic supervillains and gay super spies, to coming-of-age queer witches and MLM space defenders, these are the animated shows that PRIDE just cant help but be drawn to forever.All series descriptions are courtesy of their respective studios and networks.53. 'Super Drags'Synopsis: Three gay co-workers at a department store lead double lives as superhero drag queens, fighting crime and other forces like an evil drag queen and a conservative politician.Why we love it: The series boasts an all-star Drag Race cast including Trixie Mattel, Shangela, Ginger Minj, and Willam Belli.Where to watch: Netflix52. 'Castlevania'Synopsis: A vampire hunter fights to save a besieged city from an army of otherworldly creatures controlled by Dracula.Why we love it: Lead vamp Alucards surprise coming out (by way of a mnage trois) gave the series the queer bite wed been craving.Where to watch: Netflix51. 'Chicago Party Aunt'Synopsis: Chicago Party Aunt is a half-hour animated comedy that follows Diane Dunbrowski, AKA The Chicago Party Aunt, as she stays true to her mantra If life gives you lemons, turn that shit into Mikes Hard Lemonade.Why we love it: The series is about a young queer guy going to stay with his aunt and party it up in Chicago, and in the process learn to love himself for who he is. Honestly, whats not to love here?Where to watch: Netflix 50. 'Star vs. the Forces of Evil'Synopsis: Star Butterfly arrives on Earth to live with the Diazes, a Mexican-American family. She continues to battle villains throughout the universe and high school, mainly to protect her extremely powerful wand, an object that still confuses her.Why we love it: This series is the epitome of starting off silly and turning it to a deeper story about tolerance, acceptance, and anticolonialism. Yes, you read that right. And its sweetly queer-inclusive.Where to watch: Disney+ or Hulu 49. 'Invincible'Synopsis: An adult animated series based on the Skybound/Image comic about a teenager whose father is the most powerful superhero on the planet.Why we love it: Andrew Rannells voices the lead character Mark Graysons best friend, William. That would be enough on its own, but it also features the talents of our forever crush Zachary Quinto.Where to watch: Prime Video48. 'Onyx Equinox'Synopsis: A young Aztec boy is saved from death by the gods and chosen to act as humanitys champion, forced to discard his apathy toward his fellow man and prove humanitys potential in a fight that spans across fantastical-yet-authentic Mesoamerican cultures.Why we love it: Ancient Mesoamerican queerness abounds in this very excellent and very adult anime.Where to watch: Crunchyroll47. 'High Guardian Spice'Synopsis: Four fierce girls train to become great heroes at High Guardian Academy, where they form allegiances, uncover betrayals, and discover their true identities while preparing to protect the world from an ominous unknown threat.Why we love it: This series created by Raye Rodriguez, a Cuban-American trans man, is a joy and populated with queer characters throughout.Where to watch: Crunchyroll46. 'Twelve Forever'Synopsis: Reggies dream is to be a kid forever. Her dream is so powerful that it creates its own fantasy world of perpetual youth.Why we love it: Reggie never wants to grow up, in part because it means shes going to have to come to terms with all those confusing feelings she has about her classmate Conelly.Where to watch: Netflix 45. 'Voltron: Legendary Defender'Synopsis: Five teenagers become the last line of defense for the galaxy in an intergalactic battle against the evil alien force led by King Zarkon.Why we love it: This remake of the 80s classic was modernized in our favorite way by making one of the leads, Shiro, gay.Where to watch: Netflix44. 'Baymax!'Synopsis: Baymax! returns to the fantastical city of San Fransokyo where the affable, inflatable, inimitable healthcare companion robot, Baymax (voice of Scott Adsit) sets out to do what he does best: help others.Why we love it: Disney has often (and fairly) gotten grief for including blink-and-youll-miss-it queer moments, then patting itself on the back for its inclusivity. But with Baymax! it finally isnt holding back the queerness takes unapologetic center stage.Where to watch: Disney+43. 'Adventure Beast'Synopsis: A brave zoologist, his spunky niece, and anxious assistant explore the world while saving wild beasts in this adult animated educational-comedy series.Why we love it: The episode We Live on a Queer Planet is a must-see.Where to watch: Netflix42. 'Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur'Synopsis: Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur follows genius Lunella Lafayette as she teams up with a giant red dinosaur to protect New York City from all sorts of wild threats.Why we love it: This animated Marvel show has a fantastic cast, including a lot of queer faves among the guest stars who step into the recording studio for an episode or two. Best of all, it's just casually queer without making a big deal out of things.Where to watch: Disney+41. 'Helluva Boss'Synopsis: In Hell, imp Blitz runs an assassin business targeting the world of the living, using a spell book borrowed from a prince of Hell. With employees Moxxie, Millie, and Loona, they attempt to survive each other while keeping the business afloat.Why we love it: Because it has queer demons who make us laugh. Nuff said.Where to watch: YouTube40. 'The Great North'Synopsis: Following the adventures of the Tobin family, as single dad Beef tries to keep his kids close.Why we love it: Ham Toobin is out and proud and his family loves and accepts him for who he is. Its simple, its sweet, and we cant get enough of it.Where to watch: Hulu39. 'Velma'Synopsis: After teenage outcast Velma Dinkley is accused of killing a popular classmate, she has just 24 hours to find the real murderer. Theres only one problem: Velma has sworn off solving mysteries forever.Why we love it: Velma is officially out and proud canonically and this series does nothing to change that. It makes the world around Velma even more queer by making Daphne bisexual as well.Where to watch: Max38. 'Magical Girl Friendship Squad'Synopsis: Two girls are chosen by a red panda to save the universe by using newfound magical powers.Why we love it: Both the plot and the friendship at the center of this series are magical.Where to watch: currently unavailable37. 'Disenchantment'Synopsis: Princess Tiabeanie, Bean, is annoyed at her imminent arranged marriage to Prince Merkimer. Then she meets Luci, a demon, and Elfo, an elf, and things get rather exciting, and dangerous.Why we love it: Not only does the show boast a crew of lovable weirdos and outsiders, but Bean is queer and romances a mermaid.Where to watch: Netflix36. 'Danger & Eggs'Synopsis: In this fast-paced original animated comedy, teal-haired D.D. Danger and her best friend Phillip plan out another amazing day but get distracted with a challenge to conquer the worlds weirdest abandoned water slide.Why we love it: It's packed with queer and trans characters, voiced by queer and trans actors, plus it was co-created by a trans woman.Where to watch: Prime Video35. 'Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous'Synopsis: Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous follows a group of six teenagers chosen for a once-in-a-lifetime experience at a new adventure camp on the opposite side of Isla Nublar. But when dinosaurs wreak havoc across the island, the campers are stranded.Why we love it: The slow-burning and oh-so-sweet queer romance between Yaz and Sammy made us roar with happiness.Where to watch: Netflix34. 'The Legend of Vox Machina'Synopsis: Theyre rowdy, theyre ragtag, theyre misfits turned mercenaries for hire. Vox Machina is more interested in easy money and cheap ale than actually protecting the realm. But when the kingdom is threatened by evil, this boisterous crew realizes that they are the only ones capable of restoring justice. What began as a simple payday is now the origin story behind Exandrias newest heroes.Why we love it: Thanks to plenty of behind-the-scenes queer talent, this series, which began as a group of friends playing Dungeous & Dragons, features several queer characters and beloved queer celebrity guest stars like Stephanie Beatriz who plays as Lady Kima of Vord, a lesbian halfling paladin.Where to watch: Prime Video33. 'Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated'Synopsis: In this animated update of the cartoon classic, Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, and their pals solve spooky mysteries in a hamlet bedeviled by supernatural bedlam.Why we love it: We all know that Velma is canonically queer now, but this series is where it all began! While the show begins with her chasing Shaggy around trying to get their relationship on track, by the end she realizes that perhaps the reason that love connection panned out was because her heart lies elsewhere with a girl named Hot Dog Water. Yes, you read that right.Where to watch: Netflix or Max32. 'Scott Pilgrim Takes Off'Synopsis: After meeting the woman of his dreams, a musician finds himself contending with an army of her exes.Why we love it: Scott Pilgrim has endured in several forms over the years, but this reimagining of the worldvoiced by all the actors from the live-action cult classicgives bisexual icon Ramona Flowers a bigger role.Where to watch: Netflix31. 'Star Trek: Prodigy'Synopsis: A group of teenagers steal a derelict Starfleet vessel and use it to explore the galaxy.Why we love it: This series continues the franchises legacy of inclucivity in its lead character, Gwyn, who is nonbinary.Where to watch: Netflix30. 'The Dragon Prince'Synopsis: Two human princes forge an unlikely bond with the elfin assassin sent to kill them, embarking on an epic quest to bring peace to their warring lands.Why we love it: Heroic lesbian queens in love.Where to watch: Netflix29. 'Summer Camp Island'Synopsis: Created by British animator and illustrator Julia Pott, the series follows the adventures of Oscar and his best friend, Hedgehog, who have just been dropped off at their first summer camp. Away from their parents, the two quickly learn that Summer Camp Island is not a normal summer camp: the counselors are witches, horses become unicorns, and monsters live under the bed. Not all camps offer the opportunity to swim with a talking shark in the swimming pool, crawl under the bed into a different universe, or make friends with the moon, but Oscar and Hedgehog do their best to navigate the mysteries and wonders of this magical place and make their stay worthwhile.Why we love it: This adorable and delightfully bizarre series features multiple queer and gender non-conforming characters throughout. These include some gay, married royal space puppies. Hey, we said the show was bizarre! Where to watch: Spectrum 28. 'Little Demon'Synopsis: Thirteen years after being impregnated by Satan, a reluctant mother, Laura, and her Antichrist daughter, Chrissy, attempt to live an ordinary life in Delaware, but are constantly thwarted by monstrous forces, including El Diablo himself, who yearns for custody of his daughters soul.Why we love it: While many of the animated shows we love are fun for the whole family, this one is strictly for grown folks. Transgressive and extremely violent, this hilarious series features a stellar cast including Danny DeVito, Lucy DeVito, Lennon Parham, and Michael Shannon. But its character Laura Feinberg, mother to the titular little demon, earns this spot on our list. Not only is she queer; shes voiced by bisexual queen Aubrey Plaza.Where to watch: Apple TV+27. 'The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder'Synopsis: The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder picks up the story of its central character, Penny Proud, and her iconic family: parents Oscar and Trudy, twin siblings BeBe and CeCe, and grandmother Suga Mama (and Puff!). By Pennys side is her loyal crew: Dijonay Jones, LaCienega Boulevardez, Zoey Howzer, Maya Leibowitz-Jenkins, and Michael Collins.Why we love it: When the revival of the popular series returned, it was as promised as louder and prouder.: Michael Collins, now voiced by EJ Johnson, is out, proud, and fabulous. The show featured Barry Leibovitz-Jenkins (voiced by Zachary Quinto) and his husband Randall (Billy Porter). Where to watch: Disney+26. 'Craig of the Creek'Synopsis: Craig of the Creek follows a young boy, Craig, and his two friends, Kelsey and JP, as they go on adventures within a world of untamed, kid-dominated wilderness in the creek.Why we love it: In a show thats all about the imagination, Craig of the Creek keeps it real when it comes to inclusivity and representation of queer and nonbinary characters.Where to watch: Cartoon Network, Hulu, Disney+, or Max25. 'DuckTales'Synopsis: Huey, Dewey, and Louie, along with Mrs. Beakleys granddaughter, Webby, discover long-kept family secrets from Scrooges epic past, sending the family on escapades around the world!Why we love it: This adorable reboot of the classic avian adventure story was modernized in several ways, including by stepping up its queer representation. In the third season, Webby gets a new best Violet whos being raised by two gay dads. Where to watch: Disney+24. 'Solar Opposites'Synopsis: A family of aliens moves to Middle America, where they debate whether life is better there or on their home planet.Why we love it: Two of its leads, Korvo and Terry, werent initially a couple, but over the course of two seasons thats exactly what theyve become.Where to watch: Hulu or Disney+23. 'Hazbin Hotel'Synopsis: The daughter of Lucifer opens a rehabilitation hotel that offers a group of misfit demons a chance at redemption.Why we love it: We need more LGBTQ+ rep across the spectrum including characters that are messy and awful and likely literally belong in hell.Where to watch: Prime Video22. 'The Hollow'Synopsis: Three teen strangers awaken in a dangerous world and try to make sense of what connection they have to each other as they attempt to make it out alive.Why we love it: Adam is out proud right from the start.Where to watch: Netflix21. 'Arcane'Synopsis: Set in utopian Piltover and the oppressed underground of Zaun, the story follows the origins of two iconic League champions and the power that will tear them apart.Why we love it: Arcane, which just became the first streaming series to win an animated Emmy, also won hearts with its romance between Vi and Caitlyn.Where to watch: Netflix20. 'Q-Force'Synopsis: A handsome secret agent and his team of LGBTQ superspies embark on extraordinary adventures.Why we love it: Were still not over this cancellation, Netflix! But fortunately we got one full season of this super-queer and hilarious show.Where to watch: Netflix19. 'Human Resources'Synopsis: Lovebugs, Hormone Monsters, and a parade of other creatures juggle romance, workplace drama, and their human clients needs in this Big Mouth spinoff.Why we love it: Nonbinary actor Brandon Kyle Goodmans turn as the queer Lovebug was enought to make us tune in. But all the laughs make it easy to stay, too.Where to watch: Netflix18. 'Tuca & Bertie'Synopsis: Tuca & Bertie is an animated comedy series about the friendship between two 30-year-old bird women who live in the same apartment building: Tuca (Tiffany Haddish), a cocky, care-free toucan, and Bertie (Ali Wong), an anxious, daydreaming songbird.Why we love it: Not only is Tuca an out and proud bisexual, but the show is just so intrinsically queer. Its odd and lovely and totally embracing of weirdness and otherness, and rejects the confines of normalcy. Plus, its just so funny. Where to watch: Max or Netflix17. 'Young Justice'Synopsis: DCs young superheroes come of age, balancing truth and justice against the secrets and lies of various villains and allies.Why we love it: While the first couple of seasons, which aired on broadcast television, shied away from introducing queerness into the plot, once it made the move to Max the show was able to bring several LGBTQ+ characters into the fold. Where to watch: Max 16. 'Dragon Age: Absolution'Synopsis: When a heist against the most powerful man in Tevinter goes south, an elven mercenary named Miriam (Kimberly Brooks) is forced into a desperate fight for survival. Now, to save herself and her friends, Miriam will have to confront the tragic past shes spent a lifetime trying to escape.Why we love it: Like the game series that inspired it, this fantasy series is just so very queer. Miriam and Hiras complicated romantic history is the lesbian chaos we crave. And dont get us started on Roland and Lacklon.Where to watch: Netflix15. 'Star Trek: Lower Decks'Synopsis: The support crew serving on one of Starfleets least important ships, the U.S.S. Cerritos, have to keep up with their duties, often while the ship is being rocked by a multitude of sci-fi anomalies.Why we love it: Like the latest generation of Star Trek shows, queer representation is all over this series. One of the leads, Beckett Mariner, is bisexual.Where to watch: Paramount+14. 'OK K.O.! Lets Be Heroes'Synopsis: An enthusiastic young boy earns a job at a hero supply store and trains to become the Greatest Hero Ever.Why we love it: Enid and Red Scares romance was more than just OK.Where to watch: Hulu13. 'The Venture Bros.'Synopsis: The bizarre escapades of pseudo-heroic scientist Dr. Rusty Venture, his competent, high-strung bodyguard, and his two overenthusiastic sons.Why we love it: This show is just so, so gay in every way, in every frame. Also Dr. Girlfriend is a style icon.Where to watch: Netflix12. 'Big Mouth'Synopsis: Teenage friends find their lives upended by the wonders and horrors of puberty.Why we love it: Puberty, whether youre gay or straight, can be an awkward horror show, and no series better demonstrates that than Big Mouth. While the show hasnt always been perfect in its representation, it gets all the credit for effort and for the inclusivity of multiple queer characters experiencing the pleasures but mostly pains of those awkward wonder years.Where to watch: Netflix11. 'Infinity Train'Synopsis: Tulip Owens is a 13-year-old girl who aspires to become a computer game programmer but finds herself trapped on a train one day and is looking for a way out. She meets a robot called One-One, which consists of two spherical robots containing contrasting personalities that can combine into the shape of a basketball. Together they search the train, meeting a cast of strange characters along the way and hoping to find clues that will help Tulip find her way home.Why we love it: While this show doesnt have any textually gay characters, subtextually its queer AF. And it was done so intentionally. The creators have expressed their frustrations about the powers that be not allowing them to take their queer and trans representation as far as they would have liked to, but it doesnt take any work at all to see the exact kinds of LGBTQ+ stories they were telling here. Where to watch: YouTube10. 'Adventure Time'Synopsis: A 12-year-old boy and his best friend, a wise 28-year-old dog with magical powers, go on a series of surreal adventures with each other in a remote future.Why we love it: It was a long, long wait for Princess Bubblegum and Marceline to confirm their romance but the minute we saw PB sniff that old T-shirt every queer person knew what was up.Where to watch: Hulu or Max9. 'Dead End: Paranormal Park'Synopsis: Two teens and a talking pug team up to battle demons at a haunted theme park and maybe even save the world from a supernatural apocalypse.Why we love it: Based on the award-winning comic by Hamish Steele Deadendia, this series is a prime example of the magic that happens when you let queer folks tell queer stories.Where to watch: Netflix8. 'The Legend of Korra'Synopsis: Avatar Korra fights to keep Republic City safe from the evil forces of both the physical and spiritual worlds.Why we love it: Korrasami, aka Korra and Asami, is the bisexual representation we crave and deserve. While the series may have made fans wait until the literal last minutes of its four season runtime to confirm these two were a thing, the slow build to that moment made it feel earned.Where to watch: Netflix or Paramount+7. 'SpongeBob SquarePants'Synopsis: The misadventures of a talking sea sponge who works at a fast food restaurant, attends a boating school, and lives in an underwater pineapple.Why we love it: SpongeBob has always been gay in our hearts. I mean he, Patrick, and their little kiddo Gary are pretty much queer fam goals. Then in 2020 SpongeBob came out of the (sea) closet and is now canonically queer.Where to watch: Prime Video or Paramount+6. 'Harley Quinn'Synopsis: The series focuses on a single Harley Quinn, who sets off to make it on her own in Gotham City.Why we love it: Harley Quinn and Poison Ivys happy ending (not that its over; the show has already been renewed for a fourth season) was a slow build and so earned. Take note world: This is how you do a chaotic queer love story.Where to watch: Max5. 'The Owl House'Synopsis: Accidentally sent to the world of the Boiling Isles before a trip to summer camp, a teenage human named Luz longs to become a witch, with the rebellious Eda and pint-sized demon King at her aid.Why we love it: Speaking of shows that earned their romance, Luz and Amitys journey from enemies, to besties, to more, is one of the sweetest in animation history.Where to watch: Disney+4. 'Steven Universe'Synopsis: A team of intergalactic warriors fights to protect the Earth, but the combination of three highly trained beings and one quirky young boy leaves the team struggling to overcome the dangerous scenarios that are put in front of them.Why we love it: Steven Universe is easily one of the queerest and most delightful cartoons to ever grace the airwaves. The world would be a better place if more people watched and absorbed the world view of love and acceptance weaved into the very DNA of this show.Where to watch: Hulu or Max3. 'Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts'Synopsis: The young adult animated series follows a girl named Kipo Oak whos searching for her father after being forced to flee from her burrow, and must explore the post-apocalyptic surface world ruled by mutated animals to find him.Why we love it: While we celebrate all-inclusive cartoons, oftentimes they save the big queer reveal for the finale (or close to it). Not so with Kipo, which introduced both her friend Benson and his sexuality right from the jump. His coming out scene is handled sweetly, as is his romance with Troy.Where to watch: Netflix2. 'Sailor Moon'Synopsis: A group of schoolgirls discovers they are incarnations of super-powered alien princesses and use their abilities to defend the earth.Why we love it: The original English dub infamously tried to remove the queerness from this series by making Sailor Neptune and Sailor Uranus cousins instead of the lovers they so obviously aways were but queer 90s kids werent fooled. And thats just the beginning; the series was packed with queer and genderqueer characters and thankfully the uncensored version, now on Hulu, has restored it to its proper queer place in animated canon.Where to watch: Hulu1. 'She-Ra and the Princesses of Power'Synopsis: She-Ra, Princess of Power, leads a rebellion to free her land of Etheria from the monstrous invaders, the Horde.Why we love it: Has there ever been a gayer, more inclusive cartoon than She-Ra and the Princesses of Power? The series was created by trans artist ND Stevenson and it shows. The show explores queer love, queer struggle, and ultimately queer joy. Adora and Catra share one of the most epic love stories set to screen and theyre surrounded by a literal rainbow of compelling unapologetically queer and trans characters. We only wish there were more seasons.Where to watch: Netflix