In August, Joaquin Phoenix made headlines for dropping out of a movie at the last second. Now, his would-be co-star in the film, Danny Ramirez, has spoken out.Variety's Marc Malkin interviewed Ramirez, who recently finished filming for the second season of The Last of Us, at the recent Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles and talked about a project he had lined up with Phoenix and director Todd Haynes.Phoenix and Ramirez were supposed to star in the NC-17 gay romance about two men falling in love in the 1930s. Phoenix had approached Haynes with the idea for the movie.In August, reports came out that Phoenix got "cold feet" and left the project just days before it was to begin filming.Phoenix has declined to comment, but now, his almost-co-star has spoken out.Malkin asked Ramirez if the news of Phoenix's departure was disappointing, which Ramirez confirmed. (@) "It's definitely a very complicated situation," he said. "The audition process was extensive, and so what I walked away with that was just the artistic validation of throwing down opposite of [Phoenix] in this chemistry readThere was very intense dramatic scenes, there was a moment that I was like, 'Oh, I've arrived as a performer.' It felt like we were battling, and so I'm still excited, obviously, working with Todd"Ramirez saying he is "still excited" prompted Malkin to ask if the movie is still in the works."The most recent update is, 'hopefully.' But who knows? It's a complicated process," Ramriez said.Malkin then asked about how he found out the film was canceled and what it felt like."It's definitely disappointing, because like, whenever you have the chance to throw down with someone of that caliber obviously Todd as a director, and Joaquin I think that's for me, obviously there's a lot more people that have been affected in different ways," Ramirez answered."If anything, it just gave me more inspiration to keep driving, keep pushing, and knowing that I'm on the right path and approaching the work the right way," he continued. "So that's what I'm excited about."

A new study reveals that the vast majority of transgender youth largely do not detransition even after several years of transitioning.The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, analyzed the experiences of 220 transgender youth who have been transitioning for at least five years. They were gathered through Princeton Universitys TransYouth Project, a national, longitudinal study of transgender youth. Related First national estimate of trans youth reveals devastating mental health crisis The study calls for more interventions to create safer and more supportive environments for this demographic. This study dispels concerns raised by anti-trans advocates that transgender youth, after several years of transitioning, would have a high rate of detransitioning, as it only reports 4% of participants as actually detransitioning at any point, with 97% of participants continuing gender-affirming care. 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 Out of the total sample, only about nine patients expressed any regret. Four participants had ceased care, one participant is planning on ceasing care, and the other four are opting to continue care. This suggests that regret is multifaceted and may not necessarily be desistance in ones gender identity, although the researchers did not analyze the type of regret seen within the study.In comparison, knee replacement surgery has about a 20% regret rate, according to research from 2020.The study additionally had a secondary sample of 49 youth meant to represent the participants who were lost in additional follow-ups. 94% of this sample were satisfied with their transition. This suggests that there is not substantial bias within trans youth lost to survey attrition in similar longitudinal studies.The study had an initial cohort of 317 youth, and recruitment began in 2013. Youth were talked to a decade later in 2023, where they had to be a minimum of age 12 to participate so that researchers could talk to the youth one-on-one. The sample was predominantly white and wealthy. Participants were asked about their satisfaction and experiences, along with reporting any side effects on numerical scales. I wish we didnt need research like this, but we do, said Chris Barcelos, an associate professor of womens gender sexuality studies at the University of Massachusetts at Boston, to the Washington Post. He was not involved with this study. Its important that there is more data to support a thing that trans people know, which is that theres a really low rate of regret and really high rates of satisfaction with gender-affirming care for young people.The thing that people misunderstand about gender-affirming care is that its not easy to get even if you live in a state where there is no legislative or policy barriers, Barcelos said. Research has showed us that many more trans people youth and adults desire gender-affirming care than are able to access it.Kristina Olsen, lead author of the study, told the Washington Post, There are huge disparities in who accesses that care, tying into a limitation of the study. She said that due to disparities in who accesses healthcare, the sample of research studies is going to be predominantly white and wealthy.She additionally said that the regret in the study is multifaceted. Its kind of a wide range of things that we included in regret. It could have been to anything. Not all regret is necessarily youth ceasing to identify as their gender identity it could be issues with side effects of the medication or complaints about not being placed on hormones instead of puberty blockers.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

So you wanna see him again? Here's how to make it happen!Are you great at landing a first date but for some reason a second date rarely follows? Don't panic. First dates really suck, but oftentimes, second dates suck even more. Maybe the spark fizzled quickly, maybe one was more interested than the other, or maybe somebody else came along who caught their attention. There could be a million reasons, but none of them change the fact the second date wont happen.If youve found yourself going on more dates than you have time to keep up with that lead nowhere, first of all, youre not alone. Second of all, if youre looking to have more dates with the same guy (and maybe even make him your boyfriend), here are 15 tips that should help you out.1. Do something neither of you have ever doneIt's likely you've at least chatted a little bit prior to meeting, so decide on something neither one of you have ever done but wanted to. This could be something as little as visiting a local museum to as big as taking a road trip the first time you meet. You really do never know.2. Do something adventurousHave you ever jumped out of a plane on a first date? A death-defying experience is definitely a way to bond, and quickly. It's also a great way to do something memorable, get the blood flowing, and hopefully lead into something more serious down the line.3. Talk about something meaningfulDo you find yourself having the same boring conversations on every first date you have? What do you do? Where are you from? Where did you go to school? How long have you lived here? If youre talking about nothing interesting, then your date wont think that you are interesting. Take a risk. Expose something personal about yourself that will lead to an in-depth, meaningful conversation. Ask tough questions. Discuss societal issues, politics, and your most embarrassing drinking story. Be interesting by saying something interesting. (And FYI, you know the date is screwed what you get to the point where you start asking, What does your sister do?)4. Pay special attention to their interestsLike talking about something meaningful, pay attention to their interests right away. If you have any time to talk before the first date, find out what kind of dates they like. Are they a dinner and movie type of guy, or do they prefer something more romantic and intimate? Do they like sweets or completely avoid dessert? Paying attention to little things he tells you about himself will go a long way to prove your interest and hopefully hold onto his.5. Find common interestsWhen I meet someone who still reads comic books on the first date, that always guarantees a second. Sure, just because you both read comics as adults doesnt mean that you should be together. But because it is somewhat niche, its something the two of you can bond over. People get excited when they share something in common with youespecially if that thing in common is deemed silly or taboo.6. Play a bonding (not a bondage) gameSometimes, you just need a good icebreaker. Many of us are super nervous on first dates, so it may be beneficial to play an ice-breaking game to get the conversation going. One idea: Ask me a question you want to know, I answer, then I share a fun fact about me that I think you should know. Then its your turn. Lather, rinse, repeat. Five rounds of this should get you from appetizers all the way through desserts (side note: This game was how I landed my first boyfriend.)7. Try to end the date on a concrete noteAt the end of the date, instead of going through the usual, We should do this again sometime! make your intent clear that you want to see them again. I like to open myself up to rejection. I say something along the lines, I know youre busy with [X], but I would definitely love to see you again sometime next week if youre free. This gives them an out, which is good; they can say theyre too busy. Or, conversely, you can schedule a second date right then and there. Dont end first dates in the gray area if you dont have to.8. Avoid discussing exes/things that turn you off right awayWe all have a past, we all have a dating history, and we all have things that turn us off. However, while important to discuss those things at some point with your significant other, maybe leave it off the table for the first date. Your date doesnt want to have any internal comparisons about people youve dated before, whether theyre better than them or not. Additionally, pulling up a laundry list of things that bother you may also be a little off-putting.9. Share your passions and be interested to learn theirsWhile we have our listening ears on, we should find out what our men are most passionate about, and also share what motivates us the most. This is a great way to break down some walls without getting too personal, and also helps you find out more about your potential partner. Who knows, sharing your passions could also help you find more common interests (see tip #2), and theres never anything wrong with that.10. Dont have sex with them on the first dateALRIGHT, EVERYBODY CALM DOWN. I usually sleep with guys on the first date, and theres absolutely nothing wrong with that. But if you notice that you tend to sleep with guys on the first date, and afterwards, they dont wanna see you again...then its time to withhold sex until you get to know the guy a little bit better.11. Come up with better first date ideasEvery person Ive seriously dated since I graduated from college started with a dinner date. Dinner dates clearly work for me, but they dont work for everyone. Sometimes you need to do something more active or creative.12. Dont wait to text them afterIf you had a good date, and you like them, text them the next day (or if you dont think its too aggressive, even that night). Theres no reason to play games. You shouldnt wait 72 hours before texting, Hey are you free again this week? If you like them, make that clear, and try to see them again sooner than later. If you wait, something may pop up for him, or he may already be excited about the next guy. Once the ball is rolling, you want to keep it rolling.13. But dont become a stage-5 clingerI dont think you should be playing hard to get (even though, sadly, it does work more often that it should). But at the same time, Ive had great first dates with guys, only to receive a number of texts right away as I stepped onto the the train to head home. Then I receive a half dozen more when I'm brushing my teeth, talking about the future and our kids. Get excited about the man youre dating. Be honest. Be forthcoming. Still, you should keep it cool. You dont want to lay it on too thick.14. Make sure there were actual sparks on the first dateIm always surprised when I get asked out on a second date when the first date was so clearly mediocre. I can only speak from my own experience, but I know within the first 10 minutes of a date whether I like the guy, and if I'll want to see them again. Dont settle for mediocrity, thinking to yourself, Well, maybe if I got to know him more, Id like him more. No, definitely dont do that. You should have a pretty strong feeling right from the get-go.15. BE YOURSELF!Look, we all get in our heads on first dates. We want to make good impressions, say the right things, and do the right things. Just take a deep breath. Hes going to like you for you, and if he doesnt, well, weve had plenty of practice with first dates. He is out there, and he will like you for who you are. The best thing you can do on a first date is be true to yourself so your potential partner knows exactly who hes getting.

We love these gay couples!Netflix has introduced us to some amazing LGBTQ+ couples over the years. The streaming service immediately hit us with queer-inclusive shows like Orange Is the New Black and Sense8 when they first started producing original content. More recent hit shows such as Young Royals and Heartstopper have solidified Netflix as a pretty inclusive place when it comes to romantic queer storylines.Just like all relationships in real life, most of these gay couples on Netflix TV shows werent exactly always perfect for each other. Most of them went through a lot of hardships, obstacles, distractions, and crises. Some of them had happy endings, others, not so much.While some of these couples appeared on shows that are no longer releasing new seasons, their love stories can still be experienced on Netflixs back catalog of episodes. In turn, certain couples on this list are still on active TV shows which means that their love stories are far from over.Scroll through to check out the best gay couples on original TV shows and movies from Netflix.Brimsley & Reynolds ('Queen Charlotte')Juliette & Calliope ('First Kill')Alex & Bruno (Smiley)Maze & Eve (Lucifer)Nathan & Gabriel (The Bastard Son & The Devil Himself)Nick & Charlie (Heartstopper)Credit: Netflix/YouTubeTara & Darcy (Heartstopper)Credit: Netflix/YouTubeWilhelm & Simon (Young Royals)Credit: Netflix/YouTubeOmar & Ander (lite)Credit: Netflix/YouTubeLito & Hernandez (Sense8)Credit: Netflix/YouTubeNomi & Amanita (Sense8)Credit: Netflix/YouTubePoussey & Brook (Orange Is the New Black)Credit: Netflix/YouTubeRobert & Sol (Grace and Frankie)Credit: Ellen/YouTubeCasey & Izzie (Atypical)Credit: Netflix/YouTubeGeorge & Mae (Feel Good)Credit: Netflix/YouTubeEric & Adam (Sex Education)Credit: Netflix/YouTubeOla & Lily (Sex Education)See on InstagramCredit: Netflix/InstagramJudy & Michelle (Dead to Me)\u201cJudy & Michelle\u2019s love scene in Dead to Me S2\u201d cakevideos (@cakevideos) 1618368540Credit: Netflix/TwitterMichael & Ben (Tales of the City)Credit: Netflix/YouTubeYorkie & Kelly (Black Mirror: San Junipero)Credit: Netflix/YouTube

Music legend Cher has endorsed Kamala Harris for president in a to-the-point message of support.She is fighting for all of us, Cher said in the 21-second video posted to social on Friday. Related From Kesha to George Takei: Here are 20 LGBTQ+ celebrities who have endorsed Kamala Harris for 2024 Kamala Harris has earned public endorsements from major LGBTQ+ celebrities, growing her broad and diverse appeal. The Believe singer is a longtime Democratic ally and has been politically active since she burst onto the music scene in the 1960s. 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 Im voting for @KamalaHarris and @Tim_Walz, I hope you will too.Go to https://t.co/TgRqiwPWbe to make a plan to vote.Go to https://t.co/K3DmAPjgRY to find ways to get involved. pic.twitter.com/Ji99H402DY Cher (@cher) October 18, 2024This summer, the 78-year-old shared she was conflicted over Joe Biden staying on the ticket after his disastrous debate performance in June, and she predicted defeat for the Democrats without a change.In my heart Im tortured, because I dont believe the Democrats can win the Presidency with Pres Biden Joe whom Ive loved since we met in 2008, she wrote in a post at the time. I campaigned for him I believe its time to pass the baton, time for dems to think way outside the box. Maybe even a split ticket.Cher is mom to Chaz Bono and has advocated publicly for her transgender sons rights. Now, she is all in with Kamala Harris and her message of inclusion.Ive followed Kamala Harris since she was my U.S. senator, Cher says in the quick clip. She fought for me then, and she is fighting for all of us now. Thats why Im proudly voting for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. I know they will fight to protect our rights, and Im so grateful to be able to make my voice count this year. I hope you will, too.She captioned the video message with a call to action. Im voting for @KamalaHarris and @Tim_Walz, I hope you will too.Go to http://IWillVote.com to make a plan to vote.Go to http://go.kamalaharris.com to find ways to get involved.Cher is among a legion of music royalty endorsing or actively campaigning for Harris on the trail, from Gen Z performers to Chers contemporaries like Barbra Streisand, Carol King, Neil Young, Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, Linda Ronstadt, and Willie Nelson, whos planning a cannabis zoom callin support of Harris.Charli XCX, Taylor Swift, Megan Thee Stallion, Maren Morris, Justin Vernon, P!nk, and Billie Eilish are appealing to a younger demographic with public endorsements and performances for Harris.Lizzo appeared with the VP this weekend in another polished clip pushed on social, demonstrating the Democratic nominees ease with and connection to younger voters and their favorite performers. Thank you for being a part of this campaign, @Lizzoit was so wonderful seeing you in Detroit. pic.twitter.com/ldMJYdW5xJ Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) October 20, 2024Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Queer women and nonbinary people with muscles are the BEST!Big beefy babes: there's nothing like 'em! As a lesbian, I adore when women and nonbinary people are huge, beefy, muscular babes, and I know you do too!Looking at muscles, feeling muscles, being lifted by muscles, being held down by muscles, being dominated by muscles... we could go on and on. The joys of queers with muscles are endless, and today, we're here to celebrate them!From actors to athletes and influencers, here are 24 of our favorite big, buff, beefy babes!Katy O'BrienSee on InstagramLove Lies Bleeding star Katy O'Brien had us all bowing down in her star turn in the film!Becky DeeSee on InstagramBecky Dee is the big buff lesbian icon of our dreams!Kali ReisSee on InstagramBoxer, advocate, and True Detective star Kali Reis has become one of our top celebrity crushes this year!Marley GottererSee on InstagramThis comedian and Tomboy X model makes us wanna join a gym (especially whichever one we can find her at!).Cindy NgambaSee on InstagramThis Olympic boxer won the Refugee Team's first ever medal at the Paris Olympics!Nicola AdamsSee on InstagramAdams is a two time Olympic champion and actress is always stunning.Toni StormSee on InstagramWe love wrestler Toni Storm!Nyla RoseSee on InstagramNyla Rose is another of our favorite wrestlers!Gabbi TuftSee on InstagramPlease Gabbi Tuft, take us down in the wrestling ring!Alev KelterSee on InstagramThe US Rugby team is full of babes like Alev Kelter!Allie KatchSee on InstagramAllie Katch once again proves why we love wrestlers!Shayna BaszlerSee on InstagramShayna Baszler, please beat us up!!!Sandra MooneSee on InstagramHow could you not have a crush on pro wrestler Sandra Moone?Raven SaundersSee on InstagramThis nonbinary Olympian is one of our all time favorite beefy babes!Brittney GrinerSee on InstagramWNBA legend Brittney Griner is also a legend in our hearts!Portia Woodman-WickliffeSee on InstagramThis New Zealand Olympic rugby star was one of the hottest athletes of the summer!Alice BellandiSee on InstagramOlympic judo champian Alice Bellandi win the gold in our eyes!Kay WebbSee on InstagramInfluencer Kay Webb, a.k.a. KaySwole, certainly lives up to her name!Stevi ShariSee on InstagramThis fitness influencer has participated on American Ninja Warrior three times!Dominique NealSee on InstagramNeal is a fitness expert and photographer.Dre HollingsworthSee on InstagramContent creator and deaf activist Dre Hollingsworth has us sweating!Morgan OlsonSee on InstagramThis trainer and fitness expert makes us want to sign up for her training!Nikki NguyenSee on InstagramThis fitness expert and cosplayer is known as @korrafitness online.

Breakfast and hygiene and leaning... this list is WILD!Oh, my!Toxic masculinity and homophobia still plague us all, and there's still a lot of stigma around the topic.We knew straightness had a lot of totally normal, not oppressive at all regulations and guidelines, but in this day and age, it can be very hard to keep up with them! It's like the laundry list will never end! So, as a handy-dandy guide for all the manly alpha macho males out there, here are some things you'll probably want to avoid! (Unless, of course, you want people thinking you're some kind of gay.)FriendshipGod forbid two men are friends together, because it can be so super totally easy to get that confused with romanticism, right? This is toxic masculinity at its finest, and here's to hoping this thought in particular starts to move to the wayside. (@) SingingThis isn't as much about singing in general as much as it is in regard to the arts, such as singing on Broadway. Still, just because a man likes to bust a note doesn't mean he's gay, so let the man sing!Dressing wellThere's nothing wrong with taking care of yourself or how you look. Fortunately, men who dress well are also often thought to be gay, but plenty of straight men can take a tip (or two) from this one.LeaningStop leaning on things and/or other people, fellas! Stand up STRAIGHT! Like a real man! (@) Mysterious monolithsYes, you read that correctly. A small group of Trump supporters in California felt the need to take down one of those many mysterious monoliths that keep popping up all over the world because they believe "Christ is king" and that these objects are "pagan monuments" and "gay." The group live-streamed themselves taking down a monolith in Atascadero, California, and replacing it with a cross. Now, clips of the stream (which are filled with homophobic and racist language) are making the rounds on the internet, reports The San Luis Obispo Tribune. Wearing face masksFace masks have been proven to help in the fight against the spread of COVID-19, but apparently, according to people who still subscribe to toxic beliefs about gender, they also make you "unmanly." (@) "Might as well carry a purse with that mask, Joe," Fox Nation host and right-wing pundit Tomato Lasagna Tomi Lahren quote tweeted a video Democratic presidential hopeful Joe Biden shared urging people to wear masks during the ongoing, global pandemic, insinuating that it is somehow feminine to wear a mask and to protect yourself and others from a deadly virus.Ordering dessertWe know there's a lot of things that mean a person is gay (having a physical, romantic, and/or emotional attraction to someone of the same sex being the primary and most obvious thing), but did you know that one of those things includes something as mundane as...ordering dessert?? Yup, according to these bizarre tweets, straight, macho, alpha manly men eat MEALS only! Eating breakfastOkay, while we admit brunch is very, very gay, the simple act of eating breakfast at the start of your day shouldn't be a threat to a straight man's sexuality! It's healthy to eat a good, balanced breakfast every morning!! WTF! (@) Using facial products and/or having good hygieneApparently it's not acceptable for straight men to have a daily hygiene regimen and use facial products (unless it's called something ridiculous and manly like "War Paint"). Only gays do that! (@) Working OutTaking care of yourself, looking good, dressing nicely, all the things. Even though one look around the gym can let you know who the primary clientele is, it can be complicated to explain the relationship gay men have with the gym.RecyclingAccording to research reported in 2019,one of the biggest reasons so many men don't recycle or participate in other eco-friendly practices is that they are fraid of having their sexuality questioned by other for doing so..........Looks like toxic masculinity is going to take us AND the entire ozone layer down with it!!Eating crab legsDelicious, delectable, buttery crab meat? Sounds fruity to me! Watching the sunsetWow, the setting sun is so pretty, bro!!! No homo, though. (@) Sitting cross-leggedGet with the program, dude. Criss-cross applesauce is for girls only! Duh! Ordering a fruity drinkYou go to a bar and take a look at the selection, unsure of what to order. If you get something fruity like a Mai Tai, you may be looked down upon. Even though most millennial men want to order fruity drinks some 74% of those interviewed for a Thrillist article the fear of judgment holds them back. Just remember, theres no such thing as a manly cocktail.NappingGentlemen of the world, stop napping! Work through your tiredness like a REAL man! *eye-roll*Wiping and cleaning your derriereThis one was almost too hard to believe, but a poor woman actually did have to vent toWe Hunted the Mammoth writerDavid Futrell about how her grown, adult husband doesn't like to clean or wipe his behind because "a real man doesnt go in between his cheeks or spread them open for anything."SO GROSS.Owning a little dogIll get you, my pretty And your little dog, too! Little dogs like Chihuahuas and Miniature Schnauzers are almost a tell-tale sign of a gay man, especially if theyre wearing some sort of clothing. These little creatures are meant to be pampered, so expect to see them getting a mani/pedi next to their owner.AirbagsBasic safety procedures are gay! Who knew? While we're at, perhaps men shouldn't wear seatbelts either. If you crash your car, you should go flying through the windshield like god intended.Talking to your significant otherYup, real guys never talk about their emotions and feelings to their close loved ones. Liking flowersA mom had to take to Reddit to ask for advice on what to do with her fragile husband who thinks things like liking flowers, bananas, books, and light (yes, light) is a sign their infant son is gay. (We literally can't make this stuff up!!!) (@) Drinking water with lemon in itAccording to this cursed tweet, asking for lemon in your water is a "womanly" thing for men to do and should be avoided. (I guess tap water is fine, though.) (@) MirrorsIf you can't percieve yourself, how in the hell you gonna percieve somebody else?Strong WomenAccording to this one man's logic, men who want to be with strong women are gay because masculine, manly, macho men should only want to be with submissive women.....This cursed screenshot of a Tweet is not only homophobic but also extremely misogynistic, which is a combo we all absolutely HATE to see. *sigh* (@) Having sex with womenYup, you read that right.It's time to add "straight men having sex with women" to the ever-growing list of things that makes people gay......"Any man who has an obscene amount of sex with a high number (of) women consistently over years is a potential undercover gay man,"Twitter user @LadeIsPower ridiculously theorized. "Being a nympho/deviant is the gateway to homosexuality. It's why a lot of these rappers are gay. Eventually, you get so tired of (expletive) you begin to 'explore.'"Will the clownery ever end???TweetingWe have no clue what this person's logic was, but apparently, men who tweet are now "lowkey gay." Considering Twitter has over 330 million active, global users, that must mean there's a lot of gay people out there! (@) Celebrating Valentine's Day with your wifeThinking of celebrating your love and marriage with your wife on this holiday rather than watch a football game? Think again, because your man card might get revoked. (@) Ordering a milkshakeAccording to one Twitter user's logic, a man who enjoys a sweet, delicious, frozen concoction of ice cream and milk makes him gay... (We WISH we were making this up...) (@) Cleaning up after yourselfWhat a shock, right? I mean, cleaning your toilet, vacuuming your floor, doing your dishes? Most of the breeders out there think all straight mens apartments are pigsties and all the gay mens are immaculate. Theres no proof, of course, but theres also no television show called Straight Eye for the Gay Guy, either.Lasting a long time in bedOne Twitter user believes a man lasting "too long" in bed with a woman is actually a sign that your man is gay. Make that one make sense! (@)

With the overturning of Roe v. Wade causing a crisis in abortion care across the country, the LGBTQ+ community and its allies are terrified that something similar could happen to marriage equality. Many conservative figures have said their eyes are on Obergefell v. Hodges, and that the landmark ruling legalizing marriage equality nationwide may very well be on the chopping block, especially with Justice Clarence Thomas saying it warrants a second look.States across the country are now scrambling to get marriage equality measures on the ballot so that, in the event that Obergefell is overturned, they have some additional protections. In the upcoming election, there are 3 ballot measures relating to marriage equality. Related Cher posts rousing endorsement for Kamala Harris: She is fighting for all of us The music legend, who has a trans son, said Harris will protect our rights. California Proposition 3 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 California ballot is Proposition 3, a measure designed to repeal the famed proposition 8, an anti-gay ballot measure from 2008. Proposition 8 stated that marriage was a union strictly between a man and a woman and was controversial even at the time it was passed.Proposition 8 was deemed illegal by the Supreme Court in 2013, however it remains in the California Constitution. If Obergefell is overturned, then Californias constitution would prohibit gay marriage.The text of Proposition 3 as it appears on the ballot is, A YES vote on this measure means: Language in the California Constitution would be updated to match who currently can marry. There would be no change in who can marry. A NO vote on this measure means: Language in the California Constitution would not be changed. There would be no change in who can marry.State Sen. Toni Atkins (D) said of this measure, Here in California, we believe the ability to marry the person you love, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation, is a fundamental right. During a time when our civil rights are under attack by courts and state houses across the nation, we cannot afford to wait to enshrine marriage equality in Californias Constitution the time to act is now.California Rep. Robert Garcia (D) said, Prop 3 is about protecting the rights of our community and ensuring equality for all in our state. As ballots are being mailed out, I urge every Californian to vote yes on Prop 3 and stand with us in defending love, dignity, and respect for all. Colorado Amendment JIn Colorado, Amendment J is a ballot measure that seeks to remove a section from the Colorado Constitution that prohibits marriage equality. The section reads, only a union of one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in this state.The text of the ballot measure reads, A yes vote supports removing the provision of the state constitution that says that only a union of one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in this state.A no vote opposes removing the provision of the state constitution that says that only a union of one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in this state. Amendment J does not add anything to the constitution and would therefore make marriage equality more ambiguous. A simple majority is required to pass this measure.Colorado State Sen. Joann Ginal (D), who introduced the measure, said, As representatives of the people of Colorado, it is our shared responsibility to uphold the principles of equality and justice for all citizens, regardless of political affiliations. While were protected today, our state constitution still reflects outdated language and values.Our LGBTQ community is very afraid, said State Sen. Sonya Jaquez Lewis (D), living in fear that rights will be taken away. Hawaii Question 1On the ballot in Hawaii is Hawaii Remove Legislature Authority to Limit Marriage to Opposite-Sex Couples Amendment, also known as Question 1. This measure was designed to remove a 1998 provision in the state Constitution that prohibits same-sex marriage.Same-sex marriage was legalized in the state in 2013; however, ifObergefellis overturned, the provision could put the existing law in jeopardy. Question 1 adds nothing to the constitution. Rather, it only proposes the removal of the harmful language. The text of the measure reads, A yes vote supports removing a provision of the constitution that states that the legislature shall have the power to reserve marriage to opposite-sex couples.A no vote opposes removing a provision of the constitution that states that the legislature shall have the power to reserve marriage to opposite-sex couples.Gov. Josh Green (D) expressed his support for the measure, saying, Ive always stood on the side of advancing equality and civil rights in our state, from my time in the House, Senate, and now as governor. Since the first constitutional convention, our state has uniquely and rightly sought to affirm protections and civil rights for all citizens of the state of Hawaii. Voting yes on this constitutional amendment furthers the goal of protecting the rights of our LGBTQ+ ohana,U.S. Senator Brian Schatz said, Hawaiis constitution should be a reflection of our states diversity and our values. Thats why Im voting yes on ConAm Question #1. It will remove a relic of the past and affirm our commitment to treating LGBTQ+ people with the dignity they deserve.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

It's getting spicy in here.David Hernandez is the heartthrob singer who came in seventh place on season 12 of American Idol, but he's not just known for his impressive vibrato.Hailing from Phoenix, Arizona, the star served as a Grand Marshal for this year's Phoenix Pride festival and shared just how grateful he is to give back to his hometown."It feels nice to be able to come back and perform where I started everything. I want other people around the world to feel [celebrated]. You can do anything you set your mind to if you believe in yourself," Hernandez tells PRIDE. See on Instagram Hernandez's vocals have certainly given him an amazing career, but the hunk also isn't afraid to show plenty of skin online. In fact, he even had an OnlyFans for a short amount of time to promote his run on Naked Boys Singing in Las Vegas and New York City."If you got the body, girl you better use it! I want to show that s**t off. The girlies are loving it! You can lust all you want. Slide into my DM's. Say hello!"With plenty of experience on the stage, Hernandez is now honing in on his acting abilities and starring in a slew of projects. As his skills on-camera improve, he'd love to star in a Ryan Murphy production and show off all his goods in a full-frontal scene."I don't need a prosthetic! Let me tell you something. One thing I can thank my dad for... I don't need a prosthetic. If you want to make it bigger than it already is, we can talk about it, but it might be obscene at that point. [I'm] hung AF! Just ask my exes."Fans can keep up with David Hernandez by following him on Instagram here. To see the full interview at Phoenix Pride, check out the video at the top of the page.

With just two weeks until Election Day, it's anyone's guess what's going to come out of Donald Trump's mouth at this point. But it's safe to say that rambling in awe about golf legend Arnold Palmer's penis probably wasn't on most people's bingo card."This is a guy that was all man," the former president said at a rally in Pennsylvania over the weekend. "[Palmer] was strong and tough. And I refuse to say it, but when he took showers with other pros, they came out of there, said, 'Oh my god. That's unbelievable.'""I had to say it," he immediately added. (@) Going off on a tangent about a deceased golfer's peen at a campaign rally is just weird as hell. It ultimately doesn't matter what office you're running for, what political party you're representing, or what your sexuality is it's just plain weird.And even though the Harris/Walz campaign seems to have made the unfortunate choice to pull back on the "Republicans are weird" messaging, it hasn't stopped people online from acknowledging just how absurd this dick diatribe was. (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) Trump's speech also put some other Republicans in the awkward position of having to field questions about, well, why on earth that happened. Rep. Mike Johnson was clearly less than thrilled about that, initially trying to dodge related questions from Jake Tapper on CNN before losing his cool. (@) Probably the most ridiculous part of this whole thing is knowing that, much like all the other obvious signs that Trump's mental faculties aren't all they're cracked up to be, this will make absolutely no impact on the election. (@) (@) (@)

We're just over two weeks out from the presidential election and Donald Trump is acting a fool again. Shocker.On Sunday, in a bizarre bid to make himself more relatable and continue his inane claim that Kamala Harris never worked in a McDonald's like she has told voters, Trump donned an apron and handed out orders to customers at the fast food behemoth.But it turns out the whole thing was a staged photo op, and Donny was "working" at a closed McDonald's where he handed out food to "customers" that were hand-picked by the Secret Service. No one even ordered food; the former president just handed attendees of the event bags of food through the drive-thru window, the Washington Post reports. This means that Trump staged working at a closed Mickey D's to own the libs and prove that Harris was faking her tenure at the fast food joint. Somehow, the irony is only lost on MAGA supporters. Fake, phony, staged, and without value to anyone but him? Yep, sounds pretty on-brand for Trump. Trump operated the fry station (apparently making them incorrectly) for about five minutes and then spent 15 minutes working the drive-thru before saying, "I've now worked for 15 minutes more than Kamala... She never worked here." Triggered much? What a snowflake.Of course, this ridiculous campaign event instantly became fodder for jokesters on the internet, and we haven't stopped laughing all day! From people quipping that McDonald's doesn't hire convicted felons like Trump to someone captioning a photo of the conservative blowhard in front of the fry station, "New season of The Bear looks shit" the jokes are coming in fast and furious.Keep scrolling to see the funniest reactions to Trump pretending to be a regular Joe to one-up Harris and failing miserably! (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@)

Don't let things things get in the way of your namaste.Anyone who's been to a yoga class knows the importance of connecting to your breath and your body. We all have our reasons for doing yoga in the first place, whether to expand our flexibility and mobility or increase our strength, but that doesn't mean all social graces need to go out the door when you hit your mat.In general, it's great that men are doing yoga more often, but sometimes, guys just don't know how to behave in class. Here are 30 awkward things guys do in yoga.TalkingJust try and stay quiet.ComplainingYes, we know it's hard. We know it burns. Just breathe through it and do your best.Asking Too Many QuestionsThere's a time and a place.Touching Himself InappropriatelyIt's not that we don't want to see it, we just don't want to see it here.Picking His Belly Button LintI hate to admit I'm guilty of this.Non-Stop MoaningSeriously? You moan everytime you move.Sweating On EverythingIt's yoga, you're supposed to sweat. But, you're also supposed to clean up your sweat.Grunting When It's HardGrunting is a sign you're not ready for that pose. Relax, keep quiet, and take a child's pose. Undressing DramaticallyYes, it's hot. But, when you whip off your drenched shirt, your sweat gets on everyone. Going RogueEveryone's in down dog on their mats and you're landing hard from a handstand in the middle of the room. It's not your living room.Letting Your Junk Go RogueWhoa! You just flashed your jewels to the poor old lady on the mat next to you. You might want to ditch the booty shorts.Picking At Your Toenail LintThat lint that's been under your big toe for weeks probably doesn't need to come out and/or get tossed on to the yoga floor while you're stretching. It's been there a while. You can leave it there a little longer.Silent and Deadly FartingRemember, people close to you are breathing deeply, and now they're breathing in your deadly farts.Audible FartingEveryone around you pretends they didn't hear it. Farting is natural, so you have every right, right? Wrong.No Sense of Personal SpaceYou came in late and laid your mat down two inches from that tiny woman who now has to deal with your armpit hair in her face when you do a twisting pose.Crowding the Mat Next to YouThe room is crowded, and this isn't a ballet class, so you may want to reign in some of those fancy kicks and stretches that land on your neigbor's mat. Your feet have not been vetted.SnoringSure, yoga is relaxing, but snoring in child's pose or savasana means you're not quite in the moment.Leaving Your Phone OnTurn your phone off. Nobody wants to hear your Britney ring tone while they're in plow pose.Obnoxiously Checking Out Hot PeopleKeep your eyes on the mat and your mind on the practice. It's true that a lot of REALLY hot people do yoga, but try not to check them out mid-twist.Giggling at Terms Like Pelvic FloorYour instructor may tell you to lift your pelvic floor. Yes, it's funny, but it's also good for you. Try not to giggle.Examining Body PartsThat mole or skintag has probably been there for a while. Maybe wait until after class to really dig in and pick at it.Sniffing Arm PitsIf you think your armpits smell, they probably do. Wait until you get out of class before you take a wiff.Carelessly Letting the Man Bun OutYou love your man bun. Everyone does these days, but please don't undo it and shake out your locks while you're heading into a side plank. That guy on the mat next to you doesn't want your hair across his face.Overdoing the PatchouliPatchouli definitely sets a particular tone, but maybe the older woman eight mats away from you doesn't want to relive her '70s commune life while she's trying to get into crow pose.StinkingYou may love the way you smell after marinating in a onesie bingeing on Sense 8 for a weekened, but that doesn't mean the people around you will appreciate it.Rubbing Your Ass MusclesWe get it. Your muscles are tight. You don't really need to dig into your glute muscles while in that forward fold three inches from that guy who's just trying to focus on his practice. That's what yoga's for to loosen you up.Popping a BonerSure, that instructor is hot, especially when he/she's adjusting you. Plus, boners happen, right? Try to keep your mind on the practice, and maybe your mat neighbors won't get a load of your chubby.Non-Stop ChatterYoga is supposed to be meditative, so why are you commenting on how difficult everything is or making excuses to your neighbor about why you can't do a headstand? She doesn't care.Arriving Late and Making a SceneIf you show up late, quietly lay out your mat and join the group. Dropping your yoga bag from three feet above the floor and unfurling your mat like it's a flag on a battleship only makes you look like you crave attention.BelchingMaybe, if you know you're doing yoga that day, you might want to choose something easier on the digestive system than that chili dog with extra onions.

Former President Donald Trump left observers questioning his mental fitness on Saturday when he went on several vulgar and bizarre rants during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Trump spent the opening of his speech reminiscing about the late golf legend Arnold Palmer, at one point praising Palmers unbelievable genitalia.Trumps rally took place in Latrobe, the hometown of Palmer, who died in 2016 at the age of 87. What began as a tribute to a local hero quickly took a strange turn as Trump embarked on a rambling, 12-minute monologue detailing Palmers physical attributes.Arnold Palmer was all man, and I say that with all due respect to women, Trump told the audience. He then went further, recounting locker room anecdotes about Palmer. When he took showers with other pros, they came out of there, and they said, Oh my God. Thats unbelievable, Trump said, adding, I had to say it. We have women that are highly sophisticated here, but they used to look at Arnold as a man.Sportswriter Pablo Torre captured the reaction on X (formerly Twitter), writing, A nonzero number of Americans are voting for Trump so they can call stuff gay again, and meanwhile, their guys out here lost in a reverie about the late Arnold Palmers literal penis.In addition to his remarks about Palmer, Trump rattled off a list of false grievances, saying, You cant get elected with open borders, with transgender operations all over the place, with men playing in womens sports, with high taxes and bad schoolsno school choice. You cant get elected with all thatI could go on for 10 minutes.The border is not open. Gender-affirming procedures aren't "all over the place." Men aren't playing in women's sports. Trumps campaign has increasingly focused on culture war issues, including attacks on transgender rights. Over the past several weeks, his team has flooded the airwaves in key battleground states with ads targeting gender-affirming care, transgender athletes, and public accommodations for transgender people, positioning these topics at the center of his electoral strategy. The ads often feature inflammatory rhetoric, seeking to frame Vice President Kamala Harris and the Biden-Harris administration as extreme.We will get critical race theory and transgender insanity the hell out of our schools, and we will immediately keep men out of womens sports, Trump declared, sparking loud cheers from the crowd.At one point during the rally, Trump boasted about the enhanced security measures surrounding him, referencing two assassination attempts. By the way, how nice is this place? Isnt it beautiful? Look, people, as far as you can see, they give you a little extra security nowadays. Do you notice? I got more machine guns than Ive ever seen in my life. Look at these guys, Trump said, gesturing toward his security detail. They look like Arnold Palmer. Cant look better than Arnold, he added.Trump also engaged in profanities and vulgar language when talking about Harris.You have to tell Kamala Harris that youve had enough, that you just cant take it anymore, Trump said, adding, We cant stand you anymore, youre a shit vice presidentthe worst. Kamala, youre fired. Get the hell out of here!Trumps recent public appearances have sparked growing concerns his health. In a week marked by multiple bizarre outbursts, including referring to the January 6 insurrection as a day of love, Trump has appeared increasingly incoherent and erratic.However, right-wing media outlets continue to protect the former president from himself. CNNs chief media analyst Brian Stelter weighed in on X, pointing out that many Trump supporters were likely unaware of the bizarre monologue. On Fox [News], this story doesnt exist, Stelter explained. The network cut to commercial midway through Trumps ramble about Arnold Palmer; didnt air the vulgar part live; and hasnt covered it at all since.Award-winning actor Jeffrey Wright chimed in with sarcasm, suggesting that Trump should consider an alternative career if he loses in November. Trump should just book a permanent residency in Vegas, Wright tweeted. He could goof dance to YMCA, joke lovingly about Arnold Palmers joint, do his whole anti-elite schtick, while his supporters enjoy the show, the all-you-can-eat buffets and the endless slots.Even former White House press secretary Jen Psaki, who now hosts a show on MSNBC, joined the chorus, tweeting, Well now we cant even enjoy Arnold Palmers (as in iced tea and lemonade) anymoreWatch Trumps bizarre Pennsylvania campaign rally below. - YouTube www.youtube.com

These TV & movie villains made being bad look oh-so-FABULOUS!Believe it or not, there once was a time when television and filmmakers utilized villains to portray a bunch of clich and homosexual stereotypes because, duh, all gays are deviant villains (supposedly.) However, whatever plan was behind this idea in the first place backfired, because now all were left with is a generation of gay kids with evil role models who had to find representation for themselves somewhere.These characters arent gay, per se, but it would be safe to say that no one should be surprised that the result of villains with queer stereotypes provides queer people with inspiration. These characters may be stereotypical, murdering hot messes, but love is love and they belong to us. Some of these characters are offensive, some just fun, but either way, theyre all fabulously queer AF.Dr. Girlfriend & The MonarchOk so this is admittedly a little bit of a cheat to include two characters, but really you can't have Dr. Girlfriend or The Monarch they are so tightly knit as a queer (coded) couple on The Venture Bros. Lord HumungusOk so the Mel Gibson of it all makes revisiting The Road Warrior kinda tough, but it's worth taking a gander at if just to check out its super queer and kinky biker gang led by the mega leather daddy Lord HumungusUrsulaThis sinuous octopod taught us all about using body language as she slid from the inky darkness and wrapped herself around that sweet little mermaid. Based on real life drag legend Divine, Ursula managed to become a queer icon for both genders.Actually, almost every Disney villainDont get me wrong, I LOVE Tamatoa...and Scar...and Maleficent...and Prince John...and Ratigan...and Hades...and Captain Hook...and Ratcliffe...you get the idea. (And I lied. I hate Ratcliffe. Seriously, forget that guy.)Apparently all you have to do to be a Disney villain is fabulous. Even their TV shows villains like,Shego and Negaduck, fall into this trap. (Okay maybe Disney needs to back off this trope. And by maybe, we mean definitely.)HIMPart fabulous Frankenfurter, part evil twin of the Blue Meanies from Yellow Submarine, HIM is...something else. A surreal, high pitched nightmare in thigh-high stilettos, HIM made you unsure whether you wanted to be super gay or super evil. Either way, we don't admire the Power Puff Girls needing to fight him.JarethHow many queer awakenings did the wickedly sexy (oh, and also evil and baby stealing) Jareth, in his skin tight pants, cause? We're betting that its probably a lot.While the character is clearly interested in the opposite sex (as well as the same? Who knows. None of those Goblins were very hot...), his appeal was unable to be resisted by both genders.Xena: Warrior PrincessOkay, Xena is technically known as a hero, but when we were first introduced to her in Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, she was a total villain on a hunt for revenge for her brothers death. Either way, she represents everything that is power and domination, and her relationship with Gabrielle is an intimate portrayal of romance. Plus, the leather getup, the chakram, the war call? Please. OrochimaruThere are lots of these characters in anime (maybe more so than in Western media), but Orochimaru is definitely the king of them. With a soft voice, and a beautiful, effeminate look, this character is obsessed with youth and, uh...the bodies of young men. (To stay young, of course. Only to stay young. No other reason at all!)The character even disguises themselves as a woman and keeps a harem of young, powerful men around them. (To be fair, this may be as much about the gender disparity apparently going on in the ninja world.)Frank-N-FurterFrank-N-Furter literally IS the trope of the queer-coded villain, to the point it feels a little bit like cheating to add him here (but were guessing more of us love the good Doctor here than the older villains he was spoofing). Rocky Horror Picture Show is a giant send up of all sorts of mainstream tropes, twisted into something that both fulfills and undermines the role its forced into. And Frank-N-Furter is the ultimate example of that: a pure, distilled, queer-coded villain if there ever was one.Instead of pretending that his swishy dramatics arent suppose to be a wink and nod, he embraces them so very, very, very, very much.Lord Maximus FarquaadLord Farquaad is just a bucket of grumpy fabulousness. Theres rumors that the character is based partly on former Disney CEO Michael Eisner, who had a bitter falling out with the DreamWorks producer behind the film. Although this is simply speculation, we live for the rumor and Lord Farquaad, along with his parents Grumpy and Pea, serve drama, intrigue, and shade, which is all we need in a villain.The JokerWith comics, its hard to define whats in character since (especially with popular characters) that varies a lot from writer to writer. With that said...A LOT of writers have explored this angle of the Joker and Batmans complicated relationships. (Some more than others, but its far from a one-time thing.) And no one can argue that he isnt a very sharp dressed man, no matter the version.JamesOh James, you adorable and terribly unsuccessful goof! When your team is made of fellow drama queens Jesse and Meowth, you gotta be ready to compete! And James doesnt shy away from the challenge! Ever. At all.You could do worse for a role model, to be honest.Literal SatanAngels are generally considered to beautiful creatures whose gender is, lets say, less the relevant. Maybe that explains why Satan is often queer coded as a flamboyant man (along with his minions). This version of the trope is so specific and common, it even has its own name: Flaming Devil.Futuramahas Robot Satan,South Parkhas Satan ruling over hell with his boyfriend Saddam Hussein, and the list can go on and on and on...The Queen of HeartsOff with her head, I mean, need I say more? The Queen of Hearts is a fabulous and iconic villain that has seen many portrayals throughout the years (and we may be a little partial toward Helena Bonham Carters.) She represents the heart of conflict for Alice in Wonderland, and whether from the original text where the character was born or any on-screen version of her, she represents everything we yearn for in an iconic villain.

Saturday Night Live almost got deep into the Menndez brothers controversy this past weekend.SNL, known for its topical humor and skewering of recent headlines, dipped its toe into the Menndez waters in a Weekend Update segment that was ultimately cut for time and not aired as a part of the show.In the sketch, Michael Longfellow and Marcello Hernandez appeared as "Two Guys Dressed as Doctors" for Halloween, wearing blue and gray scrubs over long sleeve white shirts.The two guys said they thought their costumes were straightforward and simple, but this year, Halloween is a little more complicated."The moment we stepped out the door, everyone immediately assumed we were dressed as something else: the Menndez brothers.""We thought people would see two doctors and start banging pots and pans together for us," Longfellow said."Instead, people keep yelling things like, 'You're innocent!' and 'You're so hot!'" Hernandez joked."And also, 'Kiss each other again!'" Longfellow added in.When Colin Jost asked about the "again" part, Longfellow said, "yeah, it's in the show.""The Netflix show and TikTok have made the Menndez brothers sex symbols," Hernandez continued."Turns out, people like the Menndez brothers wayyy more than doctors," Longfellow said."We've been telling people we straight up are the Menndez brothers," Hernandez confirmed.Watch the entire sketch below.The Menndez brothers, Erik and Lyle, are so "hot" right now, because they are the latest subjects of Ryan Murphy's Monster series. The first season focused on Jeffrey Dahmer, while the second season followed Erik and Lyle, who, when they were young adults in 1989, shot and killed their parents.The brothers said that the reason for the killing was the years of sexual, physical, psychological, and emotional abuse they suffered at the hands of their father while their mother helped keep the secret.In the show, several viewpoints of what happened are presented, including the idea that Erik and Lyle may have had a sexual and romantic incestuous relationship. Monsters shows them kissing, showering together, dancing, and doing other intimate things together.

French soccer league Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) has condemned fans who took part in anti-LGBTQ+ chanting at a match over the weekend.During Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) Football Clubs home match against RC Strasbourg on Saturday, PSG fans at Pariss Parc des Princes stadium could be heard chanting Les Marseillais cest des pds, according to French newspaper Le Figaro. The homophobic taunt, directed at the teams bitter rival Olympique de Marseille, translates to people from Marseille are queers. Related A referee stopped a soccer match because of a homophobic chant This is the first time that a soccer match in France was stopped because of homophobia. Le Figaro reported that the chanting went on for several minutes, even as stadium announcers twice warned the crowd to stop. According to the Associated Press, PSG fans responded to the announcers warnings with jeers. 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 The chanting was reportedly also directed specifically at Marseille midfielder Adrien Rabiot, who played for PSG from 2012 to 2019 and was reviled by the teams fans as a traitor. Rabiot is not openly gay.These latest discriminatory chants made by Paris Saint-Germain supporters are unacceptable when, at the same time, the whole of professional soccer has been working to ban homophobic behavior and chants from stadiums, LFP said in a statement.The leagues disciplinary committee is looking into the incident and the French government has also condemned the chanting. French sports minister Gil Avrous will reportedly meet with LFPs president this week to discuss measures to prevent similar anti-LGBTQ+ chanting at future matches. As the AP reported last year, such chanting is common at LFP matches. In France, homophobic comments made in public are punishable by up to a year in prison and a 45,000 euro (about $49,000 U.S.) fine. But authorities have struggled to figure out how to prevent anti-LGBTQ+ chanting at soccer matches. In 2019, the LFP launched a plan to distribute forms among spectators, allowing them to report sexist, homophobic, or racist incidents at matches.The plan came in the wake of a similar 2019 incident in which PSG fans engaged in homophobic chanting during a match with Marseille. But it has clearly not done the trick. During another PSG/Marseille match last year, PSG fans again targeted the rival team with anti-LGBTQ+ chants, leading the league to close a section of the stadium stands behind one of the goals for two games.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

A viral post on X by a user entrenched in the QAnon conspiracy sphere claimed that a former student of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Matthew Metro, alleged that Walz sexually assaulted him in 1997 when he was still a student. The move is part of a broader phenomenon of the right using AI-generated videos to advance their political agenda.Breaking: Tim Walzs former student, Matthew Metro, drops a shocking allegation-claims Walz s*xually assaulted him in 1997 while Walz was his teacher at Mankato West High School. Metro was a senior at the time. If this is true, its a political earthquake, said the user. Related Biden asks tech companies to help stop AI-generated sexual deepfakes used to harass gay students Theres no federal laws telling schools how to respond to this growing problem. However, users were quick to add Community Notes to the post which has since been removed from X to explain that the video is an AI fabrication. Deepfake detection websites flagged this video immediately, and users were quick to point out how the video features unnatural facial movements and a robotic voice, as well as several errors in basic facts, like the years Metro attended the school. 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 That video is a deepfake. If its not instantly obvious to most people that it is a deepfake, then were soon going to be in serious trouble, said BBC disinformation journalist Shayan Sardarizadeh. That video is a deepfake. If it's not instantly obvious to most people that it is a deepfake, then we're soon going to be in serious trouble. Shayan Sardarizadeh (@Shayan86) October 17, 2024The speech pattern strongly suggests its an AI-generated prompt. For example, listen to how he says sexual assault three times within the first 30 seconds. Each time, its said with the exact same pitch, tone, and inflectionThe facial movements are offtheres inconsistent muscle movement, drooping of the eyes, irregular eyebrow shifts, and even the disappearance and reappearance of a tooth throughout the video, said a user whos linked under the community notes.Additionally, Metros LinkedIn profile reveals that he attended Mankato West High School between 1993 and 1996, not in 1997, as the video claims. His Facebook profile also has photos of him, which appear to be a completely different person from the man in the video.A Washington Post investigation was able to get in contact with Metro, asking him about the deepfake. He said, Its obviously not me: The teeth are different, the hair is different, the eyes are different, the nose is different. I dont know where theyre getting this from. Metro, an out gay man, stressed that the incidents discussed in the fake video like Walz groping and kissing him in school never happened.He said that the video said that he was in the closet in high school and that his parents were getting divorced, both of which are false he was out in high school and his parents are still married today. I was completely out in high school, he said. He described his anger at being misrepresented in the video, especially given that his name and identity will forever be associated with the video online. Its an invasion of my privacy and my personal life, he said. This is just the latest in a stream of false and fraudulent sexual assault allegations surrounding Walz, as numerous accounts have spread other claims that are not backed up by evidence. Several more mainstream conservative commentators have insisted that Walz is gay, and he has been attacked by conservatives for his support of a gay-straight alliance at the Minnesota high school in the 1990s and his support for trans youth as governor.According to the Department of Homeland Security, AI deepfakes are becoming more common, especially across the digital political sphere. They cite an increasing need for the public to be aware of these growing threats and for more education to spread on how to best detect deepfakes. This is especially needed during elections.According to one 2019 study, deepfakes are a major threat to society, the political system and businesses because they put pressure on journalists struggling to filter real from fake news, threaten national security by disseminating propaganda that interferes in elections, hamper citizen trust toward information by authorities, and raise cybersecurity issues for people and organizations.The author of this study also outlines the necessity for anti-deepfake technology and regulation to come into the midst. There have been increasing calls for the federal government to regulate the growing technology surrounding artificial intelligence, including as it becomes more difficult to discern what is legitimate. Education and training on how to spot deepfakes are emphasized as incredibly necessary. LGBTQ Nation reached out to Metro, but he did not respond before the publication of this article. The Harris-Walz campaign declined to comment, stating that they do not comment on misinformation.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA) was just an 18-year-old Californian when, in 1978, conservative state legislator John Briggs sponsored a ballot initiative to ban gays and lesbians from working in public schools so they wouldnt sexually orient and recruit children. Voters defeated the initiative, but Takano now sees the same playbook being recycled by anti-LGBTQ+ Republicans against the transgender community.To help combat such bigotry, Takano joined then-Rep. Jared Polis (D-CO) in 2014 to co-found the Equality PAC, a political action committee dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ House candidates and allies who want to pass the Equality Act, legislation that would outlaw anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination nationwide. Related This election offers a clear choice between the Party of Freedom and the Party of No Lets look at the governing records of Democrats and Republicans on the social issues that improve peoples lives. The PAC has since gone from soliciting $100 donations from just a few donors to raising over $50 million from generous supporters and business leaders across the nation. In addition to its robust online program, this year the PAC held a donor retreat in Palm Springs, California; monthly breakfasts in Washington, D.C., with influential House members as special guests; and virtual calls with big-dollar supporters. 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 A substantial number of our contributors are LGBTQ themselves, but also many, many allies who believe in the principle that freedom and equality are the birthright of everyone and that no one can be excluded, Takano tells LGBTQ Nation. Our mission has always been about making sure that LGBTQ persons have a seat at the most important table in our in our country, which is the U.S. Congress. Share your opinion View the article on LGBTQ Nation to participate in our reader poll. This year, Equality PAC has endorsed 15 candidates, including Delaware state Sen. Sarah McBride (D), who could make history as the first-ever out trans member of Congress.McBride brings a record of bipartisan accomplishments in her home state, including a ban on anti-LGBTQ+ panic defenses used to justify violence against queer people, Takano says.Sarah McBride made the case with her Republican colleagues by, in a way, disarming them because of who she is, by humanizing trans people, by showing that trans people are people just like anybody else, he says. He believes her impact in the House could be tremendous in helping pass the Equality Act despite Republicans panic- and fear-based arguments against it. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Equality PAC (@equalitypac)McBride and all the PACs endorsed candidates are battle-tested, Takano says, with proven success in electoral politics, the emotional fortitude to go through the criticism and constant ups and downs of a campaign, and the ability to persuade a community.Takano is the lead sponsor of the Equality Act, and he will also serve as the future Chair of the House Equality Caucus, one of the largest active dues-paying House memberships. The caucus supports a range of pro-LGBTQ+ efforts, including bans on so-called conversion therapy and a commission to study discrimination against queer military service members so that their honor and benefits might be restored.Recent attacks on LGBTQ+ rights have come from religious conservative groups like Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), Takano says. Organizations like ADF have extreme moral beliefs about appropriating the powers of government to impose their will on other people, he adds. Its part of a gambit theyre making, that they can take advantage and leverage the lack of understanding of a lot of our [LGBTQ+ community members], he says. Its a cynical strategy just to gain power to cause other people to be afraid of them, but with all sorts of distortion and lies.As these attacks have increased, so too has the number of LGBTQ+ voters supporting former President Donald Trump (even despite his pledge to legally protect religious-based discrimination). Its possible that more LGBTQ+ voters supported Trump in 2020 than did in 2016, The Washington Post reported, which said that exit poll results were mixed. Some later polls, like GLAADs, found that there wasnt an increase in LGBTQ+ people supporting Republicans.But this possible increase doesnt worry Takano, who believes some queer voters may be won over by Republicans anti-immigrant and anti-trans rhetoric, other emotional appeals, or the belief that it will secure their own status.Im not surprised, but Im disappointed, he says, but I think the solution is to stand strong and to continue to make the case, even to our own community. And there does need to be, within our community, more and more leaders to stand up for the rights of all of our community. Last night, Equality PAC raised over $260,000 for Frontline candidates!We know that building a Pro-Equality Majority in the House means making sure our Frontliners have what they need to win.Special thanks to @dccc Chair @SuzanDelBene for joining us! pic.twitter.com/aDFJ0ycKBA Equality PAC (@lgbtequalitypac) September 11, 2024Nevertheless, Takano issued a direct appeal to progressive voters who say Democrats have become too moderate or not substantially opposed to Israels genocidal acts against Palestinians.I think the watch for the watch phrase here is to keep your eye on the prize,' Takano says. Electing a president is highly consequential, and its not just that presidents judgments alone, but the judgments that the thousands of people who will animate that presidents administration. The consequences of those judgments are going to be strong.Vice President Kamala Harris is the far better choice for protecting LGBTQ+ Americans, he says, especially considering the many judicial and administrative appointments and even Supreme Court Justices the next president will be responsible for. And to achieve Democrats larger aims of protecting abortion access, healthcare, and other progressive goals, he adds, will require queer and allied representation in Congress.And Im saying this is one of the progressives in Congress, he continues. This is too important election to sit out. Progress is not always made, and in a day or a week, a month. Look at it from a perspective of a lifetime of work we got to get done. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Equality PAC (@equalitypac)Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Jonathan Bailey is giving us our daily vitamins!Eagle-eyed fans have picked up on a months-old interview featuring Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey where Bailey is giving quite the eyeful in a pair of tight, yellow pants!The interview has led to a photo that's going viral online right now, showing Bailey in a simple black t-shirt and some tight, perfectly tailored yellow pants and he is just bursting out of them!The photo comes from a July episode of The Drew Barrymore Show, where Bailey and Matt Bomer were being interviewed about their Emmy-nominated show Fellow Travelers.While Bailey's pants are certainly attention-grabbing, the interview actually features some very insightful and beautiful messages! (@) Fans have been happy to comment on the picture of Bailey in his pants, commenting things like "I've never wanted to be a pair of yellow trousers in my life!" and "very yellow, not so mellow", as well as GIFs of thirsty characters and minions asking for a banana.One person went all out on their description of what they hoped would happen, using a copypasta from the internet."No lube. No protection. All night. All day. From the kitchen floor to the toilet seat, from the dining table to the bedroom, from the bathroom sink to the shower to the front porch to the balcony, vertically, horizontally, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, while I gasp for air," they wrote.Well, we certainly love a picture painted in words!What are your thoughts about Bailey's tight, bulging, banana-colored pants?If you want to see more of Bailey, watch Fellow Travelers now on Showtime! And look for Wicked in theaters November 22, where Bailey will be playing Fiyero.

The Republican candidate for vice president, Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH), has received a score of zero on the Human Rights Campaigns (HRC) just-released Congressional Scorecard for the 118th Congress. The biannual report assesses the record of every member of Congress regarding LGBTQ+ rights and then gives them a score out of 100. Vances zero score reflects that he did not support HRCs position on any bill related to LGBTQ+ people. Related Literally disqualifying: Pete Buttigieg slams JD Vance for becoming an election denier JD Vance just said that he doesnt think Donald Trump lost the 2020 election. Buttigieg said that undermines democracy. Its not a surprise, considering Vance recently blamed transgender inclusion for Americas declining schools, claiming that teachers no longer have time for basic academic lessons because they are too busy teaching radical ideas about gender. He was also against the federal Respect for Marriage Act, and last year, he refused to certify U.S. foreign ambassadors because they werent anti-LGBTQ+ enough. He even introduced legislation in the Senate to ban gender-affirming care for trans youth and make it less accessible for trans adults. 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 Vances willingness to hitch himself to Donald Trump who spent his first presidential term dismantling LGBTQ+ rights also indicates the senators animosity toward LGBTQ+ people. Other senators with scores of zero include Sens. Mitt Romney (R-UT), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Lindsay Graham (R-SC), Josh Hawley (R-MO), and Marco Rubio (R-FL). Scores of zero in the House include Reps. Lauren Boebert (R-CO), Jim Jordan (R-OH), James Comer (R-KY), Greg Steube (R-FL), Dan Bishop (R-NC), and viciously anti-LGBTQ+ House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA). Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) who has devoted her tenure to attacking trans kids managed to receive an 8 for supporting HRCs position on four bills. She voted against four larger spending bills with anti-LGBTQ+ provisions, although the report doesnt take into account why she voted against those bills.217 members of Congress received scores of 100, meaning they have been completely dedicated to supporting pro-LGBTQ+ legislation and defeating anti-LGBTQ+ bills. Senators with scores of 100 include Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Bernie Sanders (D-VT), John Fetterman (D-PA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Laphonza Butler (D-CA), the first Black lesbian in the U.S. Senate. Out Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) got a score of 93 because she didnt vote on two bills and did not co-sponsor a bill to strengthen anti-discrimination protections and a bill to increase the use of U.S. diplomacy to protect LGBTQ+ rights worldwide. In the House, scores of 100 included Adam Schiff (D-CA), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), and Steny Hoyer (D-MD). All the out LGBTQ+ members of the House got scores of 100. Former Rep. George Santos (R-NY), though, was not included in the scorecard because he was expelled before the end of his term.Congress has a responsibility to stand against bigotry and discrimination and to promote inclusion and opportunity for LGBTQ+ Americans,Hoyer said in a statement after receiving his perfect score.At a time when MAGA Republicans are working to undermine protections for the LGBTQ+ community especially transgender Americans it is vital that we support policies that reflect the American principles of equality and justice for all. I will continue to work with Democrats to advocate for LGBTQ+ Americans and their rights. In a press release introducing the scorecard, HRC slammed the historic attacks on LGBTQ+ inclusion currently taking place in Congress, including the unprecedented partisan use of must-pass legislation to dismantle LGBTQ+ rights. HRC president Kelley Robinson called out GOP House members for inserting dozens of anti-LGBTQ+ riders into the annual appropriations bills and the National Defense Authorization Act but celebrated that organizers helped stop over 100 of these riders from becoming law. The LGBTQ+ community is growing in strength every day, wrote Robinson in the reports introduction. With a record-high 75 million Equality Voters nationwide, informed voting and representation matters nowmore than ever. Throughout the 118th Congress, we have seen both the legislative backlash targeting the LGBTQ+ community and the unrelenting power we have to push progress forward.The Senate saw far fewer attempts to attack the freedom of LGBTQ+ people, Robinson continued. They stood firm against the extreme House legislation, and instead largely considered legislation to defend freedom with votes to expand voting rights, protect access to IVF and contraception, and secure the fundamental right to abortion and reproductive health care in the wake of the Supreme Courts Dobbs decision. Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

When nonbinary ESPN journalist Katie Barnes played sports as a gender-bending kid, they were called a boy because of their haircut and because they liked to lift weights. They were also called a lesbian for playing sports at all. Their experience is common to many athletes assigned a female sex at birth. But that was long before 26 states adopted anti-trans sports bans that allow adults and competitors to challenge other kids genders. Many states passed their bans while Barnes was busy writing their book, Fair Play: How Sports Shape the Gender Debates, which came out in September 2023. Many of the bans were authored by the anti-LGBTQ+ legal group Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), and some of them affect not only grades K through 12 but also competitive university teams and co-ed intramural recreation leagues. Related Cis tomboy athlete requires police protection after GOP official implies shes transgender Even transphobic Republicans are disgusted by the officials actions. Simultaneously, numerous international sports organizations, including the Olympics, have increasingly restricted their guidelines for trans womens participation too. These restrictions have resulted in the increased scrutiny of trans and cisgender players at non-elite levels, Barnes says, even when no scholarships or other consequential awards are on the line. 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 legislation that has passed in this country is not the same standard as the Olympians it is more strict in that it is rigid and permanent, Barnes tells LGBTQ Nation. Even with World Aquatics, if you transition young enough, theoretically you would be able to swim in the womens category. [but] If you are in Texas right now and you are a transgender kid, it does not matter whatever your birth certificate says is where you must play by law, and that is permanent. There is no means by which you could become eligible to compete in the sporting category that aligns with your gender identity.Trans athletes already face numerous barriers to just playing as their authentic selves. First, they must have supportive parents and access to gender-affirming care. Then, they must have state laws allowing them to change their birth certificate or state policies allowing them to play school sports. All of these whittle the number of trans athletes down, making trans student-athletes fairly rare, even before half the states in the country passed bans on trans girls participating in school sports.Despite this, the topic has become highly contentious, especially during this election year. While Republicans have uniformly passed the state bans, majorities of Americans oppose trans participation in sports, and the sides of that debate dont break down cleanly along ideological lines. The debate may not even be solved by future scientific studies on the issue since people tend to cherry-pick or misinterpret such evidence to suit their views. Meanwhile, Barnes says theyre interested in these laws effects: What it means to be a girl playing in a high-scrutiny environment? How are peoples genders challenged? What are the requirements for trans athletes to qualify for competition under state law, high school association policy, or NCAA policy?I dont know that we have fully grappled with what that fallout [from these laws] will look like, Barnes says.The following interview has been edited for length and clarity. LGBTQ Nation: Why have womens bodies in sports been policed much more than mens?Katie Barnes: Womens sports were designed to be a category that needed to be protected, right? If we think about the broad history of sport, sports were largely created by men, for men. In fact, women historically have not been allowed to participate in those original sporting experiences. It speaks to just the ways in which mens sports has been seen as the default. From that perspective, mens sports has never had any kind of sex verification component.. Yes, theres tests for doping. but theres never been any kind of a test where you have to prove that youre male enough to be eligible for mens sports because from a competitive balance standpoint. Its the womens category where the athletes are lesser. For mens sports, the thought is that if youre elite enough to be there, youre elite enough to be there, whereas in womens sports, there is such an idea of being too good of an athlete, being too strong, too fast. And so, therefore, the boundaries placed upon that category have always been regulated and policed.It seems like theres a lack of scientific studies on trans athletes. Why is that?I do think that were going to get a bunch of data within the next, like, four or five years that is going to address some of the lack of data that we have now..Of course, theres a wealth of data around elite cisgender women versus elite cisgender men, and that data is often misappropriated to describe perceived and unexpected outcomes for transgender women in womens sports. That is not to say that there is no data surrounding the impact of transition on athletic outcomes. That does exist. [There are a] couple of studies [looking at things like trans peoples muscle mass and their bodies oxygen use during intense exercise]. But all of the other data that we have around transgender people performing athletic feats, even if its not around transgender athletes specifically, would indicate that physiologically, transgender women are different from cisgender men.We know way less about transgender athletes specifically and the ways in which various medical transition approaches affect athletic performance outcomes. A big part of that is that doing a longitudinal data set would require a certain number of athletes, [and] there just arent that many. And its kind of a new area of study. Those sorts of things take time. Science takes time, and that is inconvenient for where we are at, from a legislative and a policy development standpoint. Youve noted a study that found that Connecticutsbest-funded schools typically win more state sportstitles. Beyond funding, what other sorts of advantages do people typically overlook in sports? If you come from a higher socio-economic background, youre more likely to have the ability to access sports than somebody who does not.. We accept that if your family has the money to pay for a quarterback coach when youre 12 years old, then that is something that is fair to do, but its objectively not fair in the sense that not everybody can afford to do that. And [theres] interest in what sports are selected for participation, what sports are fielded. My high school [was] a huge hockey school, huge lacrosse school, we have a rowing center, we field the polo team. And if you are a student at my high school. then [you] could have access to collegiate opportunities around those sports that kids down the street at Knox High School just dont have, right? [Without that,] how do you develop the skill to be competitive in your sport of choice?.Separate from that, when we look at elite athletes, theyre all physiological anomalies. Thats the point, right? Their bodies do different things from the rest of us. Its one of the reasons why theyre such successful athletes, and we dont have data that quantifies one being more advantageous over the other, and how that then compares to the perceived advantages of transgender athletes and transgender women in womens sports. Thats a data set that I would be very interested in knowing: How much of an advantage is being tall in being a sprinter and swimming compared to having flexible joints? I think about Gretchen Walsh, phenomenal sprinter. She has incredibly flexible joints, and her underwater [movements] are incredible. And it is largely Im sure it is aided by the fact that her elbows bend way further than they should.How has this issue become one of the top ones this election season?Sports is one of our most emotional touch points as Americans. Broadly, we love sports and we love to hate sports and hate each other because of who we root for. And you know, sports and fandom is something that is both developed through participation and also is hereditary. You know, I grew up rooting for Ohio State football because my dad loves Ohio State football. These fandoms and rooting interests create cultural bonds, and they are deeply, deeply meaningful to a lot of people in this country. And then when you overlay that with ideas about gender norms where folks have feelings about the way that things should be in this world, and that is being refracted through the dual lens of gender and sport. And when you couple that with a very clear argument from those who are in favor of a restrictive policy that boys shouldnt play girls sports, well, that is going to get a lot of people going, right?Youve said there might not be a policy on trans inclusion in sports that will politically satisfy everybody. But is there a policy that you would consider fair, even if just for elementary, middle, and high school athletes? Stakes matter a lot in what I think and what I personally view as good policy. [My stated position is that] for K-12 sports, a restriction is inappropriate. Kids [should] play where they want to play. One of the reasons why I say this and believe this is because even at a high school level, I just cant get to a place morally and philosophically where I think requiring student kids and minors to medicate in order to play sports in accordance with their gender identity is appropriate. There are times where that is physiologically messy; I recognize that. But for me, thats where Im at. And for young people, its like, why does it matter where seven-year-olds play soccer? Why does it matter where 10-year-olds run on a track? I dont really think that it does, especially from a stakes perspective. These are school sports, and its not that high school championships dont matter they matter a lot.I think as we move further up the ladder, restriction is fine as long as there is a path to participation for transgender women and womens sports at all levels, even at the Olympic level. Its not like you cant have hoops, but people need to be able to jump through those hoops, and their participation needs to be accepted as fair and valid once they do jump through those hoops.Theres a large swath of folks who are in favor of restrictive policy, for whom any policy that allows for a trans woman to participate in the womens category is seen as a failure of policy. I dont think the science backs that at this time, and I reserve the right to change my mind. Youve noted a lack of empathy on this issue. How might an increase be fostered to help move the conversation forward?Folks spend a lot of time talking past each other on this topic. It doesnt matter where you stand. I certainly, I think that is generally true. And so whether were talking about or thinking about an athlete whos at the center of a controversy, such as, you know, athletes Ive written about like Mack Beggs, Andraya Yearwood, Lia Thomas, whos experiencing a tremendous amount of public scrutiny I often think about how they feel. I dont know that everybody does.For athletes who are fearful of what it means to play with and or against a transgender athlete, what are their concerns? How do they feel? Why do they feel that way? I dont know that there is an interest from some folks in hearing that perspective if you dont agree with that perspective, I dont know that there is a desire to think about why that athlete may feel that way or whats driving them to share their perspective and to speak.So theres just so much tension and difficulty, and just a lack of nuance around this topic that I think it really strips people of their ability to, you know, quote, unquote, walk a mile in somebody elses shoes. And I think we would all be better served as were having this conversation culturally in doing that.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Andy Cohen's name has become synonymous with the drama-filled Real Housewives franchise, but it seems like his true passion lies with the Grateful Dead!In a new TikTok video, the Bravo host can be seen rocking out in the stands at a Dead & Company concert, and instead of the sharp suit he usually wears on Watch What Happens Live, he's clad in baggy shorts and a tie-dye T-shirt.@sammiko90Andy Cohens got the 411 #deadandco #bravo #sphere #andycohenNo, you're not stoned (or maybe you are, no judgement); that really is Cohen bopping along to the music and playing the air guitar.Who knew the 56-year-old was a Deadhead?!While we were unaware of his love of this stoner band that got their start in San Francisco in the '60s, Cohen is a longtime fan. Back in 2015, he even penned an article for Entertainment Weekly about his experience of road-tripping with musician John Mayer to "bro it up" and see the Grateful Dead, who had just reunited and were playing together for the first time in two decades."As a teenager in St. Louis, I'd drive in my '72 Buick Skylark convertible to wherever they were playing and dance like I didn't have a care in the world," he wrote. "Looking back, I wonder if Dead shows were my happy place because I was in the closet." Then, in 2022, he got the chance to introduce Dead & Company at a concert at Citi Field in Queens, New York, and footage of him on stage ended up on TikTok.@maggievmilesAndy Cohen voice cracking as he intros Dead n co at Citi Field. #citifield #andycohen #johnmayer #deadnco #grateful #gratefuldead #citifieldconcert #nyc #newyorkcity #newyork #newyorker #concert #concertlife #intro #vlog #ditl #happy #nyctok #nytok #funny #friends #crowd #deadhead #sober #soberlife #show #hostWe're used to seeing Cohen as either the sharp-witted, suit-wearing host known best for stirring up drama or a tipsy partier hosting New Year's Eve Live with his bud Anderson Cooper, but watching him dance like no one's watching at a Dead concert is bringing us joy and making us feel like we're standing in the middle of that cloud of weed smoke too!

After decades of silence on the subject, Al Pacino says he's aware of the criticism levied against the 1980 film Cruising and he agrees with it. The actor revealed in his recent memoir, Sonny Boy, that he was so uncomfortable with how the final cut of the movie portrayed LGBTQ+ people that he ended up anonymously donating his entire paycheck to various charities. I never accepted the paycheck for Cruising. I took the money and it was a lot, and I put it in an irrevocable trust fund, meaning once I gave it, there was no taking it back," Pacino wrote. "I dont know if it eased my conscience, but at least the money did some good.Cruising, loosely adapted from Gerald Walker's 1970 novel of the same name, follows Pacino's character of a young police officer in New York City as he goes undercover at several LGBTQ+ nightclubs to catch a serial killer who has been targeting gay men. Pacino said that he signed onto the production because he wanted to be part of a project that was "pushing the envelope."However, the actor recalled that Cruising "became very controversial during its production" for its condemning portrayal of the queer community. The film drew protests from LGBTQ+ locals in New York City "almost every day," even facing calls for a mass boycott among LGBTQ+ people at the time. Pacino said that he "remained quiet" on the controversy despite believing the final product was "exploitative" of the LGBTQ+ community, admitting that after all they had paid me a lot of money, and I wasnt going to just abandon them. Instead, he quietly made his donations instead.I didnt want to make it a P.R. stunt," Pacino explained. "I just wanted one positive thing to come out of that whole experience.

A trans-affirming non-profit in Palm Springs is engulfed in scandal following alleged mishandling of funds the city and a grant made by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).Palm Springs government officials say the non-profit Queer Works, which describes itself as dedicated to providing free mental health services to TGI+ individuals, misused $153,846 from the CDPH grant and other funds totaling over $700,000 intended to advance gender-affirming care and trans mental health in the region. A pilot basic income program also fell victim to misallocation of money. Related Former mayor Lisa Middleton could make history as Californias first trans lawmaker Lisa Middleton is up against a Latina Trump supporter in the states Inland Empire. While Queer Works tax records for 2023 have not yet been filed, previous records show executive compensation ballooned after the group received funding from Palm Springs, the Desert Sun reports. 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 Out of $723,316 in revenue for the nonprofit in 2022, a whopping $217,543 was spent on executive compensation, a violation of terms set with the city when they approved funding. An additional $266,411 was spent on salaries and wages to undisclosed recipients.Jacob Rostovsky, director of Queer Works, earned $191,000 in 2022, more than 10 times the $16,485 he earned in 2021, before the city had allocated its funding.Another non-profit that took over administration of the city and state funding earlier this year found only $30,000 of the citys funds remained.Participants in the basic income programreported problemsreceiving payments and poor communication from Queer Works throughout 2023. Officials in Palm Springs informed Queer Works in March they would be performing an audit of the programs finances.Trans City Councilmember Lisa Middleton said she met with the Palm Springs city manager and finance manager in December about her concerns. An audit plan was drawn up shortly after that, she said. In July, Rostovsky said Queer Works moved to virtual presence but was still operating and said all of the CDPH grant funds were accounted for.His latest communication with the Desert Sun included a request to a reporter to not contact him again.Despite the investigation, Queer Works continued to receive the California grant funding at about $38,000 per fiscal quarter. The grant would have totaled $500,000 had it been dispersed to completion in 2026. Queer Works asked the state to stop payments shortly before the Palm Springs audit became public.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Drew is babygirl!Fans of taste and sophistication have long known that Drew Starkey is major internet boyfriend material, but we are glad more folks are catching on to his dreamboat status.Whether its in his role as bad boy Rafe on Outer Banks, as the treacherous love interest in Hellraiser, or the upcoming, appropriately named queer romance Queer, we cant get enough of him. Outside of these roles Starkey also appeared in LGBTQ+ faves including Love, Simon, Doom Patrol, Scream: The TV Series, and Dolly Partons Heart Strings. Scroll through to see sexy pictures of Drew Starkey and make sure to watch him in the fourth season of Outer Banks on Netflix and Queer when it arrives in theaters on November 27. See on InstagramSee on Instagram View this post on Instagram A post shared by drew starkey fan (@drewstarkeyfan)See on Instagram@_ab.edits || we need more shirtless drew content just gonna be honest... #foryou #hot #drewstarkey #rafecameroneditdrew starkey pic.twitter.com/HYB8fKgTen (@alvcro) May 23, 2021 (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@)

(@) The Trump-loving students who heckled Kamala Harris at her rally last week are now crying to Fox News that they were unfairly treated, and now the internet is roasting them, too!Earlier this week, Grant Beth and Luke Polaske who both identify as Christians and are juniors at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse told Fox & Friends that they attended the vice presidents rally for the right reasons and claim to have shouted out Christ is king and Jesus is Lord while Harris was busy giving a passionate speech about womens right to choose. The Democratic presidential candidates quick-witted response caused the crowd to cheer for her. Oh, you guys are at the wrong rally. No, I think you meant to go to the smaller one down the street, she said. But apparently, the poor little party crashers got their feelings hurt because her roast was better than their heckling. Sounds like a skill issue to me.Grant claimed that an elderly woman pushed him, that the MAGA supporters were heckled, cursed at, and mocked, and Harris gave him an evil smirk when he held up his cross necklace. In reality, we did Gods work, and we were there for the right reasons, and God is watching us in this moment, he said, the New York Post reports. Im all about being a cordial person no matter your beliefs, but I do believe that we were sent there by God.So, let me get this straight: these young men crashed a rally for Harris, shouted out Christian sayings while she was discussing abortion access and a womans right to make decisions about her own body, and then were sad when people didnt shake their hand and congratulate them on a job well done? Also, its not the flex you think it is to admit that youre upset that an old lady pushed you.Harris brilliant burn immediately went viral, inspiring hilarious responses that kept us laughing for days, and now people have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to dunk on Grant and Polaske for being whiny babies.Keep scrolling to see the funniest responses to these hecklers getting heckled and then crying about it! (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@)

By Jaymes Black (they/she/he), CEO of The Trevor ProjectI joined The Trevor Project 100 days ago as the organizations CEO, and it has been an immense privilege to experience such a high level of engagement and dedication from our community. From staff, donors, and volunteers to partners, Board members, and supporters our community is committed to ending the public health crisis of LGBTQ+ youth suicide.Im proud to lead an organization that takes a 360-degree approach to preventing suicide among LGBTQ+ young people. Here are just some of The Trevor Projects accomplishments that were guided by our previous Strategic Plan:We served more than 500,000 LGBTQ+ youth in 2024, compared to 150,000 in 2021We successfully launched 988 specialized services, which contributes to approximately 50% of our crisis contactsWe launched 24/7 crisis services operations for LGBTQ+ Youth in MexicoOur Advocacy team helped defeat an average of 85% of anti-LGBTQ+ youth billsWe conducted and released four national surveys on LGBTQ+ youth mental health to understand the latest suicide risk and protective factorsWe published 13 peer-reviewed manuscripts, 48 research briefs, and a 50 State Report on the mental health of LGBTQ+ young peopleOur Public Training team delivered 416 premier trainings focused on LGBTQ+ identities and competencyWe give LGBTQ+ young people a safe place to build community on TrevorSpace, which added over 310,000 new LGBTQ+ youth from FY20 to FY24I am energized by the accomplishments of our teams, and I know they are leading us towards a joyful future for all LGBTQ+ young people. But the public health crisis of LGBTQ+ youth suicide is urgent and complex, with many contributing factors. Achieving The Trevor Projects mission to end suicide among LGBTQ+ young people requires a comprehensive roadmap.Thats why Im proud to unveil The Trevor Projects new Strategic Plan, which keeps our mission at the nexus of our key programs, strategies, and initiatives, while ensuring our endeavors track back to the LGBTQ+ young people were here to support. It also underscores the direct connection between supporting The Trevor Project and saving young LGBTQ+ lives.The plan comes at a critical time, following an evaluation of the pace of our growth, coupled with a comprehensive strategy to maintain the health and sustainability of our operations, business, and resources while continuing to deliver on our mission. Implementing evidence-based strategies for both our suicide prevention and crisis intervention programs enables us to decrease risk factors for suicide while positively impacting LGBTQ+ young peoples behavioral levels of influence.The new Strategic Plan has already sharpened our teams thinking around the organizations work, and I encourage you to read it closely to better understand the positive, life-saving impact we can have with your support.We are immensely grateful to our volunteers, donors, strategic partners, staff, and Board members; they make it possible for The Trevor Project to bring this Strategic Plan to life. I look forward to working alongside them, and welcoming new supporters to The Trevor Projects community, to create a world where all LGBTQ+ young people see a bright future for themselves.Jaymes Black(they/she/he)CEO, The Trevor ProjectThe post The Trevor Projects North Star: A Joyful Future for LGBTQ+ Young People appeared first on The Trevor Project.

By Jaymes Black (they/she/he), CEO of The Trevor ProjectI joined The Trevor Project 100 days ago as the organizations CEO, and it has been an immense privilege to experience such a high level of engagement and dedication from our community. From staff, donors, and volunteers to partners, Board members, and supporters our community is committed to ending the public health crisis of LGBTQ+ youth suicide.Im proud to lead an organization that takes a 360-degree approach to preventing suicide among LGBTQ+ young people. Here are just some of The Trevor Projects accomplishments that were guided by our previous Strategic Plan:We served more than 500,000 LGBTQ+ youth in 2024, compared to 150,000 in 2021We successfully launched 988 specialized services, which contributes to approximately 50% of our crisis contactsWe launched 24/7 crisis services operations for LGBTQ+ Youth in MexicoOur Advocacy team helped defeat an average of 85% of anti-LGBTQ+ youth billsWe conducted and released four national surveys on LGBTQ+ youth mental health to understand the latest suicide risk and protective factorsWe published 13 peer-reviewed manuscripts, 48 research briefs, and a 50 State Report on the mental health of LGBTQ+ young peopleOur Public Training team delivered 416 premier trainings focused on LGBTQ+ identities and competencyWe give LGBTQ+ young people a safe place to build community on TrevorSpace, which added over 310,000 new LGBTQ+ youth from FY20 to FY24I am energized by the accomplishments of our teams, and I know they are leading us towards a joyful future for all LGBTQ+ young people. But the public health crisis of LGBTQ+ youth suicide is urgent and complex, with many contributing factors. Achieving The Trevor Projects mission to end suicide among LGBTQ+ young people requires a comprehensive roadmap.Thats why Im proud to unveil The Trevor Projects new Strategic Plan, which keeps our mission at the nexus of our key programs, strategies, and initiatives, while ensuring our endeavors track back to the LGBTQ+ young people were here to support. It also underscores the direct connection between supporting The Trevor Project and saving young LGBTQ+ lives.The plan comes at a critical time, following an evaluation of the pace of our growth, coupled with a comprehensive strategy to maintain the health and sustainability of our operations, business, and resources while continuing to deliver on our mission. Implementing evidence-based strategies for both our suicide prevention and crisis intervention programs enables us to decrease risk factors for suicide while positively impacting LGBTQ+ young peoples behavioral levels of influence.The new Strategic Plan has already sharpened our teams thinking around the organizations work, and I encourage you to read it closely to better understand the positive, life-saving impact we can have with your support.We are immensely grateful to our volunteers, donors, strategic partners, staff, and Board members; they make it possible for The Trevor Project to bring this Strategic Plan to life. I look forward to working alongside them, and welcoming new supporters to The Trevor Projects community, to create a world where all LGBTQ+ young people see a bright future for themselves.Jaymes Black(they/she/he)CEO, The Trevor ProjectThe post The Trevor Projects North Star: A Joyful Future for LGBTQ+ Young People appeared first on The Trevor Project.

A Kremlin-backed propaganda network is allegedly behind a disinformation campaign targeting Vice Presidential candidate Tim Walz, spreading false rumors that he sexually assaulted former students, according to WIRED.Various experts allege that the network Storm-1516 is behind these efforts. This network is tied to many false claims, including one that alleged Kamala Harris committed a hit-and-run in 2011. Related The far right spreads fake AI-generated video falsely claiming Tim Walz molested a gay student Some people appear to believe that the deepfake is real, spelling real trouble for democracy. The misinformation campaign against Walz has primarily taken place within the past few weeks. Deepfakes and anonymous allegations were spread against the former football coach stemming exclusively from QAnon accounts and shared by other far-right sources. These have been shared by right-wing figures like Trump campaigner Jack Posobiec and activist Candace Owens.The most recent claim stole information from a former student of Walz to craft an elaborate deepfake that alleges Walz sexually assaulted him. The video was quickly identified by users on X as fake, and even the man depicted in the video spoke out to say it was entirely fabricated. 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 Darren Linvill, co-director of Clemson Universitys Media Forensics Hub, told WIRED that this is a common tactic from Russias playbook. There is little doubt this is Storm-1516, said Linvill, who helped uncover Storm-1516 last year.Storm-1516 typically creates an account on social media that gets tapped into the far-right network. It then spreads fake information to dupe users into sharing stories they believe come from whistleblowers or citizen journalists. Linvill says they often utilize X and YouTube to place stories.Much of this traces back to John Dougan, an ex-Floridian cop who now works with the Kremlin to spread disinformation. Dougan helped spread the initial false claims about Walz, appearing with an anonymous man, Rick, who claims to be a former student. Dougan runs numerous fake news websites used by Storm-1516. We believe that it might be a coordinated campaign in [an] attempt to bring numerous false accusations of the same nature against Tim Walz through different channels and in different formats in order to bring an image of legitimacy to the narrative, said Alex Liberty, a researcher tracking Russian disinformation.A common trend with all of these efforts is that none of them have any evidence to back them up. They are often easy to debunk by either analyzing the videos or by reaching out to the alleged parties involved. NewsGuard, for instance, debunked Dougans claim with Rick shortly after it was publicized.McKenzie Sadeghi, AI and foreign influence editor at NewsGuard, said of the deepfake video, The false narrative appears to be part of a wider campaign pushed by pro-Kremlin media and QAnon influencers ahead of the November 5, 2024, US elections aimed at portraying Walz, whose political appeal is as an everyman schoolteacher and coach, as a pedophile who had inappropriate relationships with minors.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Donald Trump posted a new attack ad to social on Sunday, once again exploiting Kamala Harris support for trans people in an effort to smear his opponent as radical and out of touch with mainstream American voters.KAMALAS AGENDA IS THEY/THEMNOT YOU! the floundering Republican nominee screamed in the all-caps caption. Related Fact Check: Does Kamala Harris support taxpayer-funded sex changes for prisoners & immigrants? This MAGA ad accuses Kamala Harris of supporting gender-affirming care for detainees of all sorts. Is that true? Like a previous version of the ad, Trump recycles Harris pledge to enforce laws that were already on the books during the Trump administration to provide gender-affirming care to prisoners in federal and state custody, a right guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution. 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 spot zeroes in on one transgender woman in custody in California, Shiloh Heavenly Quine, the first inmate in the U.S. to receive state-financed gender-affirming surgery. A female narrator misgenders Quine out of the gate, implying the gender-affirming care she received was some kind of reward Harris granted after Quine murdered a father of three. Kamala Harris pushed to use tax dollars to pay for his sex change, the narrator intones. KAMALAS AGENDA IS THEY/THEMNOT YOU! pic.twitter.com/ciIOk5IFSx Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 20, 2024While trying to use Harris own words against her, the former California attorney general was, in fact, only upholding the law, based on the Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, to provide essential healthcare to anyone in state or federal custody, including transgender inmates. Earlier this year, federal courts ruled that such care is medically necessary and needs to be included in state-funded health insurance plans.Failing to provide inmates and detainees gender-affirming care including the sex-change surgeries cited in an earlier version of the ad is unlawful and unconstitutional. It was also a law that Trump himself was obligated to follow.In her contentious interview with Fox News host Bret Bair last week, Harris hit back over the convicted felons hypocrisy in his first ad on the issue.I will follow the law, and its a law that Donald Trump actually followed, Harris told Baier. Under Donald Trumps administration, these surgeries were available to on a medical necessity basis to people in the federal prison system, and I think frankly that ad from the Trump campaign is a little bit of throwing stones when youre living in a glass house.Twenty million dollars on that ad, Harris added, on an issue that, as it relates to the biggest issues that affect the American people, is really quite remote.The Democratic nominee was likely referring to the fact that gender-affirming procedures, particularly surgeries, are not commonly conducted on federal inmates or detainees. According to a statement from the U.S. Bureau of Prisons toFactCheck.org, only two federal prisoners out of over 2,000 transgender federal prisoners have received any form of gender-affirming surgery. In the new ad, the campaign slices and dices Harris comments from the same 2019 interview to make doing her job sound insane, as the narrator ominously describes.A look at the original transcript from the sit down with Mara Keisling, then-executive director of the National Center for Transgender Equality Action Fund,sounds like anything but.I have a long-standing commitment to fighting for the rights of transgender people, for the dignity of transgender people, Harris said. When I was attorney general, I learned that the California Department of Corrections was standing in the way of surgery for prisoners. And when I learned about the case, I worked behind the scenes to not only make sure that a transgender woman got the services she was deserving, but also that the policy was changed so that every transgender inmate in the prison system would have access to the medical care that they desired and need.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Chase Strangio will be the first openly trans lawyer to argue in front of the Supreme Court. He will make his debut with December 4 for U.S. v. Skrmetti, a case that will decide transgender rights in the country for years to come.Strangio is the co-director of the American Civil Liberties Unions LGBTQ & HIV Project, having played an instrumental role in guiding the organization through numerous trans-related legal battles. He was additionally part of the team that won a legal battle against a ban on trans care with the case Brandt v. Rutledge, representing four families with trans youth. Related Supreme Court will hear gender-affirming care ban case. It could change everything for trans rights. A ruling in this case could have wide-ranging effects on legal issues concerning trans people for years to come. Skrmetti concerns three families of transgender youth as well as a doctor who argue that theyre victims of Tennessees ban on gender-affirming care for minors. They argue that by being deprived of essential medical care and that they were harmed by the state, so backed by the ACLU they are suing the Tennessee attorney general to stop the law from being enforced. 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 After escalating through a District Court and a Court of Appeals, the Supreme Court agreed to hear the case after an appeal from the Biden Administration, who then agreed to share their time with the private plaintiffs.This Courts resolution of the question presented will determine whether the plaintiff adolescents have access to essential medical care in Tennessee and whether the plaintiff parents face the choice of relocating to a different State or forgoing essential medical care for their children, said the administration in its appeal request.Strangio graduated from Northeastern University School of Law and Grinnell College and joined the ACLU as a staff attorney in 2013, previously working as an Equal Justice Works fellow and the director of Prisoner Justice Initiatives at the Sylvia Rivera Law Project, representing incarcerated trans and gender non-conforming individuals. He co-founded the Lorena Borjas Community Fund, an organization that provides direct bail and bond assistance to LGBTQ+ immigrants.Hes worked on the landmark case that led to same-sex marriage being legalized in all 50 states, Obergefell v. Hodges. He worked on Bostock v. Clayton County, the Supreme Court case that led to protections for LGBTQ+ workers, and also worked on challenges to North Carolinas H.B. 2 an attack on trans rights in that state and former President Donald Trumps trans military ban. He also has represented Chelsea Manning, a transgender whistleblower who revealed military documents to WikiLeaks.Cecillia Wang, ACLU legal director, said of Strangio in a statement, Chase Strangio is our nations leading legal expert on the rights of transgender people, bar none. He brings to the lectern not only brilliant constitutional lawyering, but also the tenacity and heart of a civil rights champion. Our clients couldnt have a better advocate in this case.James Esseks, co-director of the ACLUs LGBTQ & HIV Project, also said of Strangio in a statement, There is no attorney in the country better suited for this landmark moment in LGBTQ history than Chase Strangio. He has argued the issues before the court in Skrmetti four times before federal appeals courts, more than any attorney in the country. Anyone who has worked with Chase knows the intelligence, compassion, and courage he brings to every fight for the rights and well-being of his plaintiffs. It remains one of the great honors of my career to work alongside Chase and I have no doubt the court will be likewise impressed by the depth of his knowledge, the strength of his arguments, and the power of his empathy.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

We've come a long way since the days when every Sapphic was tossed into a box labeled either "butch" or "femme." There's a greater understanding and acceptance of people who fall outside of those categories, or even those who jump between them. But the butch/femme dynamic still holds a special place in a lot of hearts, so let's celebrate the love of some of our favorite celeb couples who wear those archetypes well.Tig Notaro and Stephanie AllynneSee on InstagramNiecy Nash and Jessica BettsSee on InstagramCameron Esposito and Katy NishimotoSee on InstagramCassandra Peterson and T Wierson (@) Katy O'Brian & Kylie Chi View this post on Instagram A post shared by TheKylieChi (@thekyliechi)Lea DeLaria and Dalia GladstoneSee on InstagramFortune Feimster & Jax Smith View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fortune Feimster (@fortunefeimster)Sophia Bush and Ashlyn HarrisSee on InstagramRaven-Symon and Miranda MadaySee on InstagramJane Lynch and Jennifer CheyneSee on InstagramMadison Bailey &Mariah Linney View this post on Instagram A post shared by Madison Bailey (@madisonbaileybabe)Brittney and Cherelle GrinerSee on InstagramBeanie Feldstein and Bonnie Chance RobertsSee on InstagramChrishelle Stause & G Flip View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chrishell (@chrishell.stause)Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de RossiSee on Instagram

Since today is National Nut Day, we thought it was the perfect opportunity to test your knowledge of celebrity nuts!We are frequently being treated to movies, TV shows, and photos that show hot male celeb packages, and if youre anything like us, youre always on the lookout for them. Which means you probably have a wealth of knowledge about famous bulges dont worry, were not judging!So sit back, relax, and see if you can guess which celebs these mystery bulges belong to!The quiz:Find out how well you know your fave celeb's intimate packages!Bulge No.1Bulge No.2Bulge No.3Bulge No.4Bulge No.5Bulge No.6Bulge No.7Bulge No.8Bulge No.9Bulge No.10Answers:So are you a connoisseur of celebrity poles or are you a bulge novice? Check your answers to find out!Bulge No.1 Lil Nas XOut gay rapper Lil Nas X covered himself head to toe in glitter and jewels for the 2023 Met Gala, but while some people were stunned by his shimmering skin, our focus was a little lower!Bulge No.2 Jonathan BaileyFellow Travelers is just the gift that keeps on giving. From steamy sex scenes in the actual show to steamy behind the scenes images to this interview Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey did with Drew Barrymore where the actor's yellow pants left little to the imagination.Bulge No.3 Joel Kim BoosterWe loved Fire Island for a million reasons, but top of that list is Joel Kim Booster in a speedo.Bulge No.4 Anthony AmmiratiOlympic pole vaulter Anthony Ammirati made international headlines during the summer Olympics when his impressive bulge hit the pole and knocked it off, costing him a medal. Bulge No.5 Jon HammWell, hello Don Draper! Jon Hamm's package is often present in his photos (there's no hiding it!), but this one from the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in 2015 really highlights his...gift to the public. Bulge No.6 Anthony BowensGay AEW wrestler Anthony Bowens is impressive to watch in the ring, but we have to admit that we're really watching to him in that skin-tight speedo!Bulge No.7 Tom DaleySee on InstagramGay diver Tom Daley is not only a three-time Olympic medal winner but he's also the king of the thirst trap and we love him for it!Bulge No.8 Jeremy PopeOut gay actor captured our attention with his sexy ad campaign for Calvin Klein. The underwear brand is really the fit that keeps on giving. Bulge No.9 Chris Underwood (@) Chris Underwood is currently going viral on social media, not only for being the Sole Survivor on Survivor: Edge of Extinction, but because of the impressive bulge that the camera caught on tape!Bulge No. 10 Keiynan LonsdaleGay actor Keiynan Lonsdale won our hearts when he starred in Love, Simon but his role on the Australian TV show Eden is what has him living rent free in our heads.

Everybody is talking about Tyler Glenn!The Neon Trees frontman's impressive vocals can be heard on the band's iconic bops like "Everybody Talks," "Animal," and "Sleeping With a Friend."Growing up in a Mormon household, the star had a hard timing coming out as a gay man, but he's now more comfortable in his skin than ever before."For me, if no one's listening, as long as I'm still proud of the whole thing, then I've stayed true to the vision from the beginning. I feel more in my body and proud of who I am. I feel way more confident in the way I want to present myself," Glenn tells PRIDE. See on Instagram Neon Trees' new record Sink Your Teeth tackles plenty of empowering themes including sexuality, confidence, body image, and some exciting shenanigans in the bedroom."I've suffered from body dysmorphia. I've gone through that flow of wanting to be a skinny blonde twink to now being really proud of the masculine side of me."Even though he's tapping more into his masculinity, Glenn admits he's actually ready to start a power bottom era."We're playing! I'm an aspiring bottom. I'm 40 and I guess that's daddy? Ever since I've had the beard, I've been called daddy, even by 38-year-olds. It feels weird!"Sink Your Teeth is available everywhere now. To see the full interview with Tyler Glenn, check out the video at the top of the page.

Zahirah Zapanta might not have gone as far in the competition as she and the fans expected, but she had plenty of time to make a lasting, positive impression. From her stunning lewks, to her lovable bubbly personality, to her moving conversion with fellow Filipina queen Sake Yew, Zaharia was a force to be reckoned with. And shes not done yet not even close. While one small mistake in her opening lift during the Girl Group challenge would be enough to drop her to the bottom on a particularly tough challenge (seriously, the talent of this season is beyond) this queen has big, big plans for the future. Yes, were talking world domination, and were more than happy to welcome our new drag overlord! PRIDE sat down with Zahirah to talk about how Asian representation on Drag Race changed her life as a baby queer and why it's so meaningful to pay it forward now. She also discussed her plans to crossover with the many, many queens of the franchise who are serving Asian excellence for the tour of our dreams.And of course, we needed to ask about that budding, possibly, maybe romance or at least flirtation with Actavia.See on InstagramPRIDE: When we first chatted before the season, my impression was: Wow shes gorgeous and a total charisma bomb and I was proven RIGHT. How do you feel about your time on the show?ZAHIRAH ZAPANTA: I really feel like I came across authentically, in terms of my energy, and also being vulnerable. People probably just expect me to just be fun or whatever, but for them to see that vulnerable human side of Zahirah was absolutely amazing. The topics that I got to talk about, whether it was Asian representation or my family was important and I was beautiful.I would imagine that youve dreamed of being on Drag Race for a while. How did the experience live up to what you imagined and how was it different than you expected?I started watching season three of Drag Race US illegally back when I was a teenager because you couldnt stream it anywhere back in the Logo days. Seeing Manila and Raja as an Indonesian winner and a Filipino runner-up really made me think to myself, Oh my God, if they can do that, then I can do it. too. That was me as a queer kid and now I have the potential to be that person for somebody young, whos finding out who they are, who may not have figured things out yet and can look up to me and see themselves in me, is such a wonderful thing. It is such a dream come true. Placement aside, whatever happens on the show, its what you make out of it, and the real work begins now.See on InstagramThats right. I think its Trixie Mattel who coined the phrase that the real race starts after the show ends.And let me tell you something, the episode that Trixie Mattel went home in on season seven was episode four. Like me, baby.This weeks challenge is one of my faves, the Girl Group challenge! The UK always brings it and the song and performances were so amazing this time, so the judging was so hard. Were you surprised it went the way that it did? When RuPaul announced that it was going to be Girl Groups Week, I was so excited, because especially in the UK franchise, the girl group challenge is so iconic, and it is such a staple. I am a girl group member now. Dead or Alive by Draculas Child is available now on all streaming platforms. So, yeah, stream it, baby, lets get that Halloween No. 1. Judging-wise, this cast especially is so strong. I was looking around every week thinking, Whos gonna go home? And the other queens felt the same way. Were all so talented, and it only takes one bad day. In rehearsals, I was smashing it, and it just took that one crunchy lift that made me lose track, a little bit. But as soon as I got back on my feet, I was like Lets kill the rest of the song. I did that, and Im super proud of us. Were going to tour, so its amazing. View this post on Instagram A post shared by /zahi:rah/ (@zahirahzapanta)Watching it back and seeing that Rileasa knew the hand placement was off on the lift, did you feel it was a bit shady that she didnt say anything?At the end of the day, its a competition. Thats the first time I heard it, and I was like, Ri! Maybe the first mistake was even thinking that my twink sisters arms could lift me up like that.LOL so shady! But one thing that really did come through were the bonds you formed with your sisters. You talked about being authentic and showing vulnerability, you also showed your silly side, especially this episode with you and Kyran. I loved that moment so much. Im curious which of your sisters you feel like you grew the closest to this season?Walking away from the competition. I felt really, really connected to the girls, especially my design challenge sisters. Actavia was somebody that I worked with prior to the show, and the show really solidified not just a friendship or a sisterhood, but a brotherhood. And the same with Kyran. They are literally my family always. You can look back and see every time I was called out safe that Kyran was always the first person to hug me and comfort me and even defend me in Untucked.See on InstagramI feel like maybe there was a little budding showmance with Actavia happening in the Werk Room? Any thoughts or comments on that?Well, Actavia is actually in the other room. Shes in the bedroom. Shes in the bedroom right now resting. You know the fans are like, Are you Team ZacTavia or Team ZacKyran?Do we have to choose? Were all modern women here.We could be a thruple. Why not? We were a throuple on the challenge. If Derek Barry can do it, why not?Yeah, absolutely. Why not? I am gonna leave it to the fans to speculate. I mean, telling them that Actavia is resting in your bedroom right now, youre not beating any allegations today.What can I say? Im not going to say anything. View this post on Instagram A post shared by /zahi:rah/ (@zahirahzapanta)I love it! OK, I want to circle back to a little bit more of a serious topic. As heartbreaking as it was to see Sake Yew leave because of her injury, I am so glad that before she left we did get some time with you two having a mirror chat, which is my favorite part of the show, talking about what it is to be an Asian queen in the UK and some of the absurd ways that fans treat you, like conflating the two of you. Im curious if, after speaking out that way, youre starting to see any change on that front.Absolutely, it was so important because its a learning tool, and its great that you say that the mirror chats are your favorite, because that is the human moment of Drag Race, and thats what makes our show so amazing. Even though we are glittery and sparkling with colorful neon hair and all of this, is that we get to relate to the queens, and thats what makes the fans connect to the queens, and why the fans love us so much.In terms of Asian representation, we came into the show and Ru wanted Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve, and Talent, so that for me was: Fans, please recognize our uniqueness. What makes us beautiful is our uniqueness.Especially this year with the Asian movement, the representation and the recognition, which is important, is that I want to be able to gather up my Asian sisters from all over the world and, hopefully, do like an Asian takeover or more, whether that be in the UK or be a part of that elsewhere in the world, whether that be in the Philippines, Thailand, or America, wherever, to just continue to show Asian excellence. It doesnt matter where you place. It doesnt matter if you got an injury. We are excellent, were beautiful, and we are talented. View this post on Instagram A post shared by /zahi:rah/ (@zahirahzapanta)I agree. I feel like this is a conversation that has needed to happen for a very, very long time. But you can tell me, if you feel this way, too but I feel like there is momentum in this moment. Can you feel that energy?Oh, my god, I feel it. I feel it so much! Every time an Asian queen gets cast in an international season, Im like, Wow! I look up to them and I think theyre so brilliant. Now to be in that same bubble, that circle of Ru-girls is so, so impactful. Im curious, are you in communication with some of these queens? Absolutely. I dont want to name people, because then people will expect stuff. But as I said, I want to be able to take some of my Asian sisters from [some of the other] franchises and do some Asian domination shows here in the UK. So maybe have a look out for that. Maybe, just maybe. Were working on it, I want to make it happen. View this post on Instagram A post shared by /zahi:rah/ (@zahirahzapanta)I love it! Well, lets end with a fun question: What is the best advice another drag queen gave you? Did you take it? And what advice would you pass on to a baby drag queen?The best advice that I could give to a baby drag queen is to just do it. Go for it. Ive been meeting so many fans who are saying, Oh, I want to do drag, and Im like, Just go for it. You know what? Look busted, because youll still feel amazing. Ive been a busted Queen. In episode four you see my Halloween first time in drag, she does not look like this now, but she did it. She put that makeup on her face, and she did the damn thing. And look at the growth. Do you see the elevation? Period. Advice that another drag queen gave me? From Marmalade: stay fierce.Im gonna answer the third part for you: You took it.

I can walk down to the beach on the treetops.Or at least that was my first impression upon opening the curtains and gazing at the rainforest and the Pacific Ocean from the balcony of our sunrise villa at the Hotel Three Sixty (www.hotelthreesixty.com) in Costa Rica.My boyfriend and I had arrived via a flight from Palm Springs well after dark the previous night. The moon shed enough light only for hints of the jaw-dropping views to come from nearly everywhere in the resort complex. We came looking for an escape from the real world and a chance to connect at this boutique property in the relatively undiscovered town of Ojochal in southern Costa Rica.Thankfully, the Hotel Three Sixty not only fit the bill it wildly exceeded our expectations.The Hotel Three Sixty sits on a 58-acre private rainforest reserve at a roughly 1000-foot elevation, which results in cooling winds and stunning views of the ocean and rainforest.This region near the border with Panama is a nature lovers paradise with abundant flora and fauna, stunning waterfalls and warm water beaches, and a pleasantly surprising number of restaurants reflecting the regions intersection of the local cuisine and contributions from its French and American ex-pat communities.But the star of our visit was Hotel Three Sixty and its incomparable staff, who were dedicated to providing a level of service I had not experienced in my travels to date.Authentic, laid-back luxury, says Hotel Three Sixty owner Trevor Ling when asked to describe his resort. A major factor in that is our location. We arent surrounded by other hotels and businesses, and thats the allure. The wildlife is naturally abundant because we arent near busy roads or locations with crowds of rowdy guests scaring away the animals. Because were 12 villas in size, even when were at capacity it never feels overrun. Our staff can take attentive care of guest needs because for us its quality, not quantity. Our priority is providing an elevated and exceptional experience.Laid-back luxury is an accurate description of our villa, which was large and tastefully decorated. All villas feature a king-sized bed, upgraded linens and toiletries, and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors opening to a spacious balcony. Our shower was comfortably big enough for the two of us and offered both privacy and stunning views. All villas are also (thankfully) soundproofed.When we did venture off the property, the local area featured natural wonders like Nauyaca Waterfalls (nauyacawaterfallscostarica.com) and the famed disappearing Whales Tail isthmus at Marino Ballena National Park (www.sinac.go.cr). There are several beaches within a short ride from the resort, and we spent hours swimming in the 85-degree waters at the Whales Tail before the beaches disappeared at high tide.Further away but accessible by boat is Corcovado National Park, the crown jewel of Costa Rica which also ranks as one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. Here you can see rare and endangered wildlife like jaguars, monkeys, sloths, birds, spiders, snakes, crocodiles, and more living in their natural habitat and free of fear from hunters, poachers, and encroaching civilization.Despite the natural wonders in the surrounding area, we were equally content exploring Hotel Three Sixtys private rainforest reserve via its meandering nature trail. We saw several Panamanian white-faced capuchin monkeys swinging on the tree limbs above us and heard the frightening cries of the aptly named mantled howler monkey during our admittedly wet walk through the rainforest. Not visible on the trail but more prevalent than monkeys elsewhere at the resort, though, were seemingly ever-present flocks of multicolored parakeets.The natural beauty of the resort extended to the view from the compact fitness center. Floor-to-ceiling windows allowed us to remain amid the rainforest while working out in air-conditioned comfort. The fitness center included a treadmill, weight machine, and dumbbells. Sorry, no stationary bike for those with questionable knees.Theres also a full-service massage and Zen center. There was only one massage room, but it was large enough for our couples massage and foot scrub.The central hub of the Hotel Three Sixty is its open-air lobby and Kua Kua Restaurant. Arriving guests emerge from the sheltering rainforest to be greeted with stunning 360-degree views. The unique design allows guests to be immersed in the natural environment while protected from its more extreme elements.We dined daily at the Kua Kua. While we tried different dishes at lunch and dinner, we never strayed at breakfast. My boyfriend loved the Chilaquiles in Green Sauce while I couldnt say no to the Two-Sauce Swiss Enchiladas. You cant go wrong with any item on the menu, but my personal non-breakfast favorites were the Peruvian Chaufa-Style Fried Rice and the Fish and Shrimp Sashimi appetizer. Our conversations were often muted while dining, but only because we spent so much time savoring the views along with the food.The exemplary Hotel Three Sixty service extended to our servers at Kua Kua. My boyfriend and I are not fans of spicy mayo on our sushi, and I half-heartedly noted this aversion before our arrival. When we ordered sushi on our first night, our server said they would hold the spicy mayo before I could make the request. Suffice it to say we were suitably impressed and pleased.While Kua Kua is the only restaurant at the resort, the local area provides numerous outstanding dining options. These include Heliconia (FB @heliconiarest) and Citrus (citrusrestaurante.com). Both restaurants are a short drive from the resort. Heliconia features local cuisine in a lush setting overlooking a stream and rainforest. Citrus features a fusion of Asian, French, Middle Eastern, and local cuisines with a great wine list in a casual yet refined open-air setting.Our fave off-site restaurant, though, was Fuego Brewing Company (www.fuegobrew.com) in the surfing town of Dominical a short drive from the Nauyaca Falls and Marino Ballena National Park. We loved the lush grounds and garden setting as much as the beer flights, Tuna Poke Bowl, and the special of the day bouillabaisse.We visited Hotel Three Sixty in August at the height of the rainy season, but not once did we get rained out of any activities. The rain fell relentlessly at times during the afternoon, but the mornings were dry, and the rains were only periodic. When it did rain, we relaxed and enjoyed the views from our villa, safe and very dry. Normally, wed consider daylight hours spent in a hotel as a negative, but here it was a private and very romantic escape.Oversized umbrellas awaited us in holding racks outside our villa door for those rainy moments at the resort.If we took home one regret from our stay, it was that we couldnt spend more time enjoying the resorts infinity pool. We spent only one afternoon lounging in its cooling waters while enjoying the views and sipping cocktails delivered by the attentive Hotel Three Sixty staff.We were never alone at the resort, but not once did the Hotel Three Sixty feel crowded or even busy. There were several other couples at the property, and we grew accustomed to nodding at each other and politely saying hello, but not much more and that was OK. Everyone was centered instead on experiencing the Hotel Three Sixty with their significant other, including LGBTQ+ couples.The local community is filled with members of the LGBTQ community, including members of our staff, Ling says. We want travelers to only focus on the adventures theyre having, the wildlife theyre seeing, and the memories theyre making. Theres no room for worrying about if youre accepted or how to act. Youre fully accepted here as you are. Its the pura vida lifestyle.You can learn more about Hotel Three Sixty, including all-inclusive pricing, at www.hotelthreesixty.com.

The Biden-Harris administration announced Monday a new requirement for insurance providers to cover injectable PrEP in their policies without a co-payment for consumers. The new rule, built on previous guidance for the Affordable Care Act, also applies to increased choice in contraception.With low uptake of PrEP among the communities most impacted byHIV, this insurance coverage requirement with zero cost-sharing will help jump-start the use of more effective forms of PrEP and lead to fewer HIV transmissions, Carl Schmid, executive director of the HIV+ Hepatitis Policy Institute, told The Bay Area Reporter. Related A new HIV-prevention injection just succesfully completed its clinical trials The twice a year shot had 100% efficacy, but a few hurdles remain before it becomes publicly available. President Joe Biden announced the same benefit added to Medicare coverage for those over 65 in September. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today The rule requires private healthcare plans to cover everyFDA-approved contraceptive drug or drug-led combination product without cost-sharing unless the plan also covers a therapeutic equivalent without cost-sharing, according to a fact sheet issued by the administration.A drug-led combination product is a therapy or diagnostic drug delivered by a medical device, including a syringe, the standard delivery device for injectable PrEP.PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, was first approved by the FDA in 2012 to prevent people exposed to HIV from becoming infected with the virus. Truvada in pill form was the first prescriptive PrEP to hit the market, followed by Descovy. The injectable PrEP Apretude was approved in 2021.HIV+ Hepatitis Policy Institutes Schmid said the Biden administration was receptive to the groups lobbying for the elimination of cost-sharing for the drug.Without it, we feel some insurers would continue to only cover daily oral PrEP and not provide PrEP users with the choice they need, he said. With up to a third of privately insured PrEP users still being charged cost-sharing, we must ensure that both federal and state regulators vigorously enforce PrEP coverage requirements. The new rule comes with the same co-payment elimination for contraceptive drugs. In a statement accompanying the announcement, the Biden-Harris administration criticized Republicans for their opposition to womens bodily autonomy.Vice President Harris and I are resolute in our commitment to expanding access to quality, affordable contraception, the president said in the press release. We believe that women in every state must have the freedom to make deeply personal health care decisions, including the right to decide if and when to start or grow their family. We will continue to fight to protect access to reproductive health care and call on Congress to restore reproductive freedom and safeguard the right to contraception once and for all.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

The moderate conservative PAC Lincoln Project released an ad responding to anti-trans attacks on Vice President Kamala Harris. The new ad says that Trump is for he/him and that hes trying to gaslight voters by bringing up Harris past statements that she would enforce current federal policy by ensuring health care access for transgender inmates.The Lincoln Project ad responds to a line of attack that Trump used in his debate against Harris as well as in several ads where he accused her of supporting taxpayer-funded sex changes for prisoners and illegal aliens. Related Fact Check: Does Kamala Harris support taxpayer-funded sex changes for prisoners & immigrants? This MAGA ad accuses Kamala Harris of supporting gender-affirming care for detainees of all sorts. Is that true? Kamala is for they/them, one of his ads said. President Trump is for you. 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 reality is that the government is required to provide health care to inmates because of the Constitutions prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment. Gender-affirming care is essential health care supported by all major medical associations in the U.S., and such health care was provided in the federal prison system during the Trump administration. Moreover, such care is rare; only two federal prisoners have received any form of gender-affirming surgery, according to a statement from the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. But none of that has stopped Trump from using this line of attack against Harris, claiming that it shows that she is radical and supports insane policies. His campaign has spent millions on diffusing the ads, and the Lincoln Project ad is an attempt to counter that message.Donald Trump is spending millions attacking Kamala Harris on a desperate lie, a narrator intones as headlines are shown. Taxpayer-funded sex changes for prisoners and illegal aliens is a Trump administration policy.Hes attacking Kamala Harris for his own record, and he thinks youre too dumb to get it. Hes gaslighting America because Trump is for he/him. Kamala is for us. The use of health care for transgender inmates as a political weapon during the presidential campaign demonstrates how this may be one of the most anti-trans presidential election seasons ever. While precarious and inadequate, providing health care for cisgender inmates hasnt gotten anywhere near as much attention as the federal provision of health care for transgender inmates.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Eric Childs says he joined the army because serving my country was a defense of freedom.I live in a small town in South Carolina, he declares in a video while at a shooting range with his son. I absolutely believe in protecting my rights. And I absolutely love my trans child. Related Trans kids are more than their genders. American Teenager invites us into their dynamic lives. Nico Langs new book reminds readers of the real people and families who have been effected by anti-trans legislation. The video is the first in a series by GRACE Gender Research Advisory Council and Education a non-profit founded by trans veteran Alaina Kupec with the goal of reaching across the aisle on transgender rights. The group supports on-the-ground organizing in states facing anti-trans legislation. With a politically diverse membership, it serves as a resource to reach across the aisle. GRACEs work helped lead to the monumental, though ultimately unsuccessful, veto of Ohios trans health care restriction by Republican Governor Mike DeWine. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Alongside GRACE, 45 parents of trans kids co-signed a brief for the impending Supreme Court case L.W. v. Skrmetti, which will decide the legality of gender-affirming care bans nationwide. The brief details the families diverse experiences and why they all support gender-affirming medical care. Five parents spoke with LGBTQ Nation about what motivated them to take a stand on the national stage.There are objective truths in this world, says Rick Colby, the Republican parent of a trans young adult. One objective truth I learned is that being transgender is a real thing, and if it is a real thing, then it transcends any political ideology.Colby, whose son has been out for over a decade, is now an experienced activist, Im trotted out often as the Republican parent who loves and supports their transgender son, which I dont really get personally. Im just doing my job as a parent.He adds, Some of [my sons] trans friends joke and they say Im a dad to all of them. I cant help it. Colby understands there are problems with the current state of his party. The GOP is awful on trans rights, he says. Faced with a binary choice, he still votes red, weighing the totality of political issues. My goal is to try to make the GOP safer for trans people.Others could not stomach staying aligned with the GOP. Sarah Celotto, who is now an Independent, said, I did leave that Republican Party. There are some things I still agree with, but I could not sit under a party that was basically wanting to erase the existence of my child.Behind the scenes, Colby says there is support for the transgender community thats being stifled by a vocal minority. He has made it his mission to show others on the right that theres nothing out of the ordinary with having a transgender son. As a lobbyist, Colby knows you must be smart about approaching issues. If you go in with hard left messaging to conservatives, they just tune out, he said, adding, You know you would never wear a Trump Maga hat to go in and lobby Democrats.Lawyer Sean Madden, a GRACE board member and father to a transgender daughter, who is also listed on the parents brief, agrees.There is this gap in the movement. Frankly, not a lot of [LGBTQ+] movement organizations have a voice with or credibility with folks in the center and center-right.Madden, a Republican-turned-Independent in the Trump era, understands the significance of the fact that red states are where anti-trans laws have passed. 40% of trans kids live in those states, he laments. Madden is a self-described unlikely activist. After his daughter came out, he was inspired to return to school to study non-discrimination law and volunteer with LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations.I think of us as a nonpartisan communications and public affairs nonprofit that tries to bring evidence-based medicine and facts to these discussions, and to do it in a way where were not demonizing people, he says.Folks have been fed so much misinformation, they dont know better. He cites the millions of dollars spent by the anti-LGBTQ+ hate group Alliance Defending Freedom and other similar organizations to push strategic, anti-trans rhetoric. Regina Olshan, another parental signatory, said she has always had kind of liberal-ish views but admits, I have been as far from an activist as one could possibly have been over my entire life. She says learning that her son was trans was a shock and that she needed education. Despite the learning curve, she says, It was always very clear that we would love and accept our kid.Having my child be subject to these terrible attacks from people creating anti-trans hysteria for their own ends, she explains, has really made me sit up and realize we do have to fight.Olshan, a lawyer, also cites a sense of fundamental fairness which makes her feel like the issue is non-partisan so does the fact that her Trump-supporting parents support their grandson wholeheartedly.She expresses frustration for the fact that puberty blockers are still available for cisgender kids when they are banned for transgender kids. It is deeply unfair to single out this group for these legal prohibitions. She now volunteers with GRACE and Families United for Trans Rights (FUTR), which works to elect transgender candidates to office.Not all the parents in the coalition are new to activism or LGBTQ+ issues. Melissa Combs, who is progressive, has worked on LGBTQ+ rights since the early 2000s during the height of same-sex adoption advocacy. When her son came out, she was also quick to take action. Im in a fortunate position where I can stand up and I can be visible, says Combs, who founded the Out Accountability Project after her child faced harassment at school. Families are terrified, I understand, and I am so grateful to have their trust in letting me speak for them.All the parents expressed that being part of a diverse coalition is powerful. You dont feel so lonely anymore, and you realize that youre not the only parent that has this going on in their life, said Celotto. Celotto, who launched a nonprofit to support trans youth, emphasizes that being visible is not easy, but important. It is difficult for us. We are called names. People are saying what we are doing is child abuse. As a parent, I love my child, and all I want is for him to be happy and alive. I will do what I need to do for that to happen.Combs shared that she saw the video with Childs before getting involved with the brief and GRACE. That video has been one of the tabs that just stays open on my computer because from time to time I need to watch it, she says, It gives me hope.Combs isnt the only one with hope. I think were going to win, Colby says, referring to the docket of trans rights court battles. Faith carries many parents through, although that realm is not always accepting. After a lifetime in the Catholic Church, Celotto stepped away this year, moving to a more accepting congregation. I didnt want God to feel like I was leaving him when I really wasnt leaving him. It was the organization that I was leaving. She says her trans son also believes in God but no longer feels welcome in the Catholic Church.Colbys understanding of transness hinges on his spirituality. I really believe my son has a masculine soul, and he was always meant to be a man, Colby explains. I dont know why it happened the way it did but thank God we have the technology and expertise in healthcare to get people to a great spot.Im just thrilled that my son is alive and thriving.Editorial Note: Eric Childs, the subject of GRACEs first video mentioned in this article, passed away this summer in a car accident. His wife, Jessicka Spearman, is currently running for South Carolina State Senate against anti-LGBTQ incumbent Richard Cash.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

More than 67% of Wisconsinites say theyre very enthusiastic about voting and every ballot will be critical in what many consider the swing state of the 2024 election.The LGBTQ+ community, in particular, could make a difference as the number of queer voters continues to rise. According to the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), queer voters will comprise nearly 20% of the electorate by 2040 but the more pressing issue, of course, is what happens on November 5.Fair Wisconsin executive director Abigail Swetz told LGBTQ Nation that the Badger State already has 270,000 voting-age LGBTQ+ people, including 20,000 nonbinary and transgender voting-age residents.Consequently, the state has the power to build a Democratic majority or a Blue Wall in both Congress and the White House to help protect bodily autonomy in the United States. This is partly due to voters flipping the once Republican-controlled state Supreme Court in 2023. The majority then ordered new maps, redistributing power to progressive and liberal voters. 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 Earlier this year, Gov. Tony Evers (D) signed fair maps into law. These redrawn maps resulted from a 2023 lawsuit filed by the Campaign Legal Center (CLC) and others that blocked further gerrymandering. The lawsuit alleged that politicians manipulated voting districts to be in favor of Republicans. Using the 2018 election, CLC explained that despite winning 53% of State Assembly votes cast statewide, Democrats secured 36% of the seats. Unlike in years past, candidates like District 18s Kristen Alfheim, an LGBTQ+ Victory Fund spotlight candidate running for state senate, now have the opportunity to flip longtime Republican-led districts. And she is expected to.The out lesbian candidate is running in a top red-to-blue district, which now includes both the progressive city of Oshkosh and rural, Republican-leaning areas like Omro. Alfheim will face incumbent Republican Sen. Dan Feyen.If she wins, she could become part of a record-breaking group of 32 out elected officials in the state, including Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D) and Rep. Mark Pocan (D).Ive been working to make sure that were growing our majority, and weve been working to flip our legislature since the gerrymandering began, Fair Wisconsin policy analyst Sean OBrien told LGBTQ Nation. So this is a long, long, long time of work that we have been pushing for, and now we are seeing the benefits.Fair maps opened a path to flipping the legislature, OBrien added, saying there is potential to make history with the largest number of pro-equality candidates and the largest number of LGBTQ candidates in our state legislature.Fair Wisconsin policy and advocacy director Sean OBrien, left, and statewide organizer Cait Mallery. Photo provided by Fair Wisconsin. Swetz adds that visiting voters across the state helped her better understand the intersectional needs of diverse LGBTQ+ communities. She knows voters are worried about the slate of anti-LGBTQ+ laws being proposed this year (530 in the country and 14 in Wisconsin, all of which have failed), but she notes theyre part of a larger GOP strategy that will also affect LGBTQ+ people.There are policies out there, at the federal level, at the state level, that directly target the LGBTQ+ community. Every issue, every policy that would be a part of a new administration, either state or federal, every policy impacts our community, frankly, mostly in disproportionate ways, because we are marginalized, Swetz said.Thats why Sen. Baldwin told LGBTQ Nation that her number one priority is to show up, listen, and deliver for all of Wisconsins communities, red, blue, and purple and rural, urban, and suburban.U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) makes opening remarks at a campaign rally on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wis. Photo by Jovanny Hernandez / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA Today Network via Imagn Images. Baldwin is the first woman elected to represent Wisconsin in Congress and the first openly gay Senator in US history. She once represented Wisconsins Second Congressional District (the City of Madison) before running statewide for Senate in 2012. She successfully moved from representing a progressive district to the most purple of the purple states.While representing progressive Madison, Baldwin explained that she also represented some of our states most rural counties counties that have voted for Republicans and Democrats. The fight for trans health care & safety in WisconsinA GLAAD and Path Finder poll conducted earlier this year found that abortion, healthcare, and LGBTQ+ equality rank as top issues among queer voters.One of those voters is Elle Halo, who spoke with LGBTQ Nation while on her way home from the Gender Liberation March, an inaugural march on Washington for the right to abortion and gender-affirming care.For me, its the murders, Halo said when thinking about the brutal racism and anti-transgender discrimination that has followed the campaign trail.Trans activist Elle Halo. Photo by Bloodgood Foto. Halo is a trans activist and voter living in Milwaukee. She started organizing to combat the increased violence and health disparities in her community. Presently, only a handful of cities offer protections for transgender and gender nonconforming people, covering only 21% of the states population.Chyna Long, Cashay Henderson, Brazil Johnson, and Regina Mya Allen all Black transgender women from Milwaukee were murdered within the last two years. The Democrat-led city has a strong Republican voter base, turning out around 50,000 votes for former President Trump in 2020. As a community organizer, Halo provides greater access to gender-affirming care through her organization, TRANCE, a Milwaukee-based consulting firm that financially assists Black transgender women in collaboration with organizations like Sisters Helping Each Other Battle Adversity (SHEBA) and Diverse & Resilient.Most kids that are trans or queer or that are going to transition do not have family nor accommodations, nor access, nor money, nor insurance, nor privilege, nor time and space to go and have a medical transition, said Halo.Every issue, every policy that would be a part of a new administration, either state or federal, every policy impacts our community.Fair Wisconsin executive director Abigail Swetz Among transgender patients nationwide, 29% said a doctor or other health care provider refused to see them because of their actual or perceived gender identity, according to the Center for American Progress (CAP).Jon Jones, a policy analyst at ACLU-WI, said that residents like Halo are forced to cover where politicians fail. Both healthcare discrimination and an increase in violent crime have ignited the urgent need for comprehensive protections and hate crime legislation for the LGBTQ+ community at the federal and local levels, says Halo. These bills would help increase healthcare accessibility. She also stressed the need for comprehensive, inclusive policies that consider the unique challenges faced by transgender people without family support or resources.Policies like the Equality Act. The stakes could not be higherPoliticians like Baldwin have persisted in pushing for the passage of the Equality Act, which would explicitly ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, public accommodations, and other essentialities of life. But for now, Wisconsins queer youth continue to bear the brunt of the far rights attacks.Most of the anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced and defeated in Wisconsin this year have pushed for transgender youth sports bans, LGBTQ+ curriculum censorship, and transgender health care restrictions. The movement for parental rights and Dont Say Gay laws has resulted in at least 450 books being banned in the state since 2021, according to PEN America. We cannot mistake progress for triumph in the fight for fairness, freedom, and full equality while LGBTQ+ discrimination persists, Baldwin said. Related How did the trans sports debate become such a hot topic this election season? Nonbinary ESPN journalist Katie Barnes discusses what the trans sports debate reveals about gender bias in the U.S.. State Republicans failed attempt to ban gender-affirming care for trans youth was a victory, for example, but a lot is still at risk. This frankly is messing with peoples lives, Gov. Evers said as he signed the veto. Im very happy to be in this position so I can veto these types of bills. At the end of the day, we need not goalies but advocates in this position and in the Legislature.Yet, ahead of November 5, there isnt a shield law protecting gender-affirming care or abortion in Wisconsin. Jones says that this opens the state up to fearmongering attacks by anti-LGBTQ+, anti-trans, anti-abortion, and racist politicians and policing tactics.[E]ven if those things do stay legal in Wisconsin, say someone from Indiana or a Southern state has a family member up here who travels to Wisconsin to have an abortion or to receive gender-affirming care, but its still illegal in their state, the data collected here in Wisconsin can be used to prosecute them, in say Georgia or Mississippi or Alabama, Jones said. If this is the case, the amount of women and LGBTQ+ people in prison could increase under a Republican legislator.ACLU-WI policy analyst Jon Jones. Photo provided.Wisconsin state capitol. Photo provided by Fair Wisconsin.As is true across the country, Black trans women remain the most vulnerable in Wisconsin. Already, Black Wisconsinites make up a disproportionate portion of those arrested in the state.Wisconsins Black residents make up 6% of the states population but fill state prisons at a rate of 11.8 times that of white residents.In the traditional white, patriarchal view of the world, ignoring and dehumanizing the suffering of marginalized communities, especially the most marginalized, which is trans, Black women, Jones said, is because its convenient, politically, for [Wisconsins gerrymandered] legislature. Jones was referencing bills like Assembly Bill 447 that hinge on much of the disinformation and fear-mongering spread by Donald Trumps anti-trans ads in the final weeks of his campaign against Vice President Kamala Harris. The bill would allow corrections officers to strip-search transgender women and place them in mens prisons, where they would face increased violence, says Jones. It has the power to pass if Republicans stay in control.The bill was introduced by Republicans including state Rep. Ty Bodden, who wont be seeking reelection in redrawn District 59, which has been Republican-led for more than a decade. Jack Holzman, a Democrat, is running to take Boddens place in the rural district against Republican Ryan Brooks, who currently represents District 60.Holzman could help improve racial and transgender justice in the prison system and promises to advocate for policies that increase bodily autonomy. I support womens right to reproductive freedom, a right to quality education, which includes adequate funding for our public schools, [and] affordable healthcare for all, Holzmans website reads. This would be a big change for voters, considering that abortion was completely illegal in Wisconsin just 18 months ago. Jones believes that people too often forget about this reality.Baldwin agrees.The Dobbs decision was a stark wake-up call and demonstrated just how swiftly and dramatically protections we considered fundamental rights can be stripped away, she said.We cannot mistake progress for triumph in the fight for fairness, freedom, and full equality while LGBTQ+ discrimination persists.U.S. senator Tammy BaldwinWhen abortion was illegal in Wisconsin, nearly 90% of women (not including transgender or nonbinary people) had to leave the state for care, according to a report released by Baldwins office. Currently, abortion is banned in Wisconsin at 20 weeks, while Republicans attempt to further restrict it to 14 weeks.Baldwin has been fighting hard against this anti-choice crusade. She co-led 48 members of the Senate Democratic Caucus to introduce the Womens Health Protection Act of 2023, federal legislation that would guarantee access to abortion across the country and restore the right to comprehensive reproductive health care for millions of Americans.This November, the stakes could not be higher, Baldwin said. Once again, Wisconsin is the key battleground state to watch and Wisconsin voters will have the power to decide who controls the Senate, the White House, and ultimately the future of our nation. Share your opinion View the article on LGBTQ Nation to participate in our reader poll. Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Kamala Harris is bringing the joy back. As she blazes through her campaign for president, I have been thrilled to see the surge of enthusiasm for her candidacy in the LGBTQ+ community. So on a recent Sunday, I got up early, hopped on a bus, and joined over 150 new friends on a trip to get out the vote for Kamala Harris in Pennsylvania. It was a bus filled with queer joy. Related Rep. Mark Takano makes direct appeal to progressives wary about supporting Kamala Harris This is too important election to sit out, he said. And its not just about Harris views. As a gay person, my life is political whether I like it or not. Ive been lucky enough to live in a world created by the gay activists before me. But I know that none of that progress is safe. Dive deeper every day Join our newsletter for thought-provoking commentary that goes beyond the surface of LGBTQ+ issues Subscribe to our Newsletter today If mpox or another epidemic strikes again, I need a queer-friendly, competent leader in charge of the response. If the far right keeps targeting trans kids, marriage equality, and LGBTQ+ books (and they will), I need a president who will fight back. And if we want to create a world with love, acceptance, and safety for LGBTQ+ nationwide, we need that kindness and empathy reflected in President Kamala Harris.The explosion of energy, memes, and support for Harris by the LGBTQ+ community has been incredible. Who knew when she became our candidate that the internet would go crazy? But the wide embrace by social media and politicos alike has injected much needed hope and fun into the race.But memes and good vibes wont win this election. Action will.Queers for Kamala Queers for Kamala bus ride to Pennsylvania | Queers for KamalaSo I joined a bus trip organized by Queers for Kamala to get out the vote. The bus was buzzing with excitement. We were joined by actor and activist Jelani Aladdin (from Broadways Frozen and TVs Fellow Travelers) to hype us up. Then we went to speak to voters in Pennsylvania, the most important swing state in this election. Some conversations were fun: I have five voters in this house and were all going for Kamala Harris! Some were reassuring: Were both registered Republicans but wouldnt vote for Donald Trump in a million years. And some challenged me: Im really not sure yet. I hate how extreme both parties are these days. But every conversation was kind and polite and allowed me to do what I came to do: share my thoughts on why Harris is right for our country.Our big queer bus knocked on over 5,500 doors that day. We helped the campaign connect with voters in a real, person-to-person way. At the end of the day, we left knowing that we had moved the needle in a state where every vote could make the difference. We were filled with pride and joy and I, for one, am excited to return.Getting our steps in on a sunny day in PA! With less than two weeks until the election, every day counts. Thats why Im inviting every LGBTQ+ person to think about the stakes of this election and get involved in this campaign. JoinOut for Harris NYsphone banks every Thursday night in midtown from 6-8pm. Hop on a bus to Pennsylvania withQueers for Kamala, where youll be joined by queer celebrities and icons like Ali Krieger, Brita Filter, and Jonathan Groff. Orfind a bus or LGBTQ event near youand get connected. I promise that come November 6th, youll be glad you took the time to help. And if you dont want to do it alone reach out! Ill be out there with hundreds of friends and LGBTQ+ community members, talking to voters and transforming energy into action. Lets win this.Gabriel Lewenstein is the President of the Stonewall Democrats of New York City, a city-wide political club dedicated to advancing the rights, priorities, and concerns of the LGBTQ+ community of New York City and New York State. He is also a co-chair of Out for Harris NY and on the leadership team for Queers for Kamala. And he is filled with queer joy! Your Vote is a step toward Equality for All Make sure youre ready to vote! Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

After decades of cult-classic status and fans clamoring for more, Beetlejuice finally got a sequel, and it exactly the kind of creepy, nostalgic joy we need this spooky season!Tim Burton reunited with stars Winona Ryder, Michael Keaton, and Catherine O'Hara for the long-awaited sequel to the 1988 original, adding new cast members Jenna Ortega, Willem Dafoe, Justin Theroux, Monica Bellucci, and Arthur Conti.Beetlejuice Beetlejuice follows the Deetz family as three generations return home after a tragedy. Lydia (Ryder) is dealing with her rebellious teenage daughter, Astrid (Ortega), who accidentally opens a portal to the afterlife. "With trouble brewing in both realms, it's only a matter of time until someone says Beetlejuice's name three times and the mischievous demon returns to unleash his very own brand of mayhem," the press release reads.Fans may be loving Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, but we are equally obsessed with the fashion choices the cast has made as they've traveled the globe for all of the world premiers. From black and white stripes as an homage to the titular character to gothic-inspired dresses, these stars know how to look the part.Keep scrolling to see all of the fab fashion that will put you in the mood for spooky season!New York City, photocallNew York City, photocallNew York City, photocallMexico City, movie premierMexico City, movie premierMexico City, movie premierMexico City, movie premierMexico City, movie premierVenice Film Festival, arrivalsVenice Film Festival, arrivalsVenice Film Festival, arrivalsVenice Film Festival, arrivalsVenice Film Festival, arrivalsVenice Film Festival, arrivalsVenice Film Festival, arrivalsVenice Film Festival, arrivalsVenice Film Festival, red carpetVenice Film Festival, red carpetVenice Film Festival, red carpetVenice Film Festival, red carpetVenice Film Festival, red carpetVenice Film Festival, red carpetVenice Film Festival, red carpetVenice Film Festival, red carpetVenice Film Festival, red carpetVenice Film Festival, red carpetVenice Film Festival, red carpetVenice Film Festival, movie premierVenice Film Festival, movie premierLondon, movie premierLondon, movie premierLondon, movie premierLondon, movie premierLondon, movie premier

These queen bees have us absolutely BUZZING!So you wanted a twist, eh? Well, Drag Race Canada is back for season 5 and this cast is sickening!Today World of Wonder announces the 11 new queens who will be revving up their engines and ready to race to that crown and the title of Canadas Next Drag Superstar and these queen bees have us absolutely BUZZING!To help determine who will earn that prize are our seasoned, returning judges Brooke Lynn Hytes, Brad Goreski, and Traci Melchor. Each week this trio will test these new queens with a series of challenges and gag-worthy runways to earn their spot and prove that they have the Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve, and Talent to win!So, when does the race begin? Sooner than you think! Canadas Drag Race season 5 returns November 21st, exclusively on WOW Presents Plus in the US and select territories worldwide.Ok, lets meet the queens!HELENA POISON 32, TorontoHelena Poison is a designer who spends her weeks performing drag in Toronto, and her weekends taking out-of-town gigs. She is a skilled makeup artist who knows her way around prosthetics and special FX makeup. Her drag career started when she grew tired of doing makeup for others, and her friends pushed her to step onto the stage. JAYLENE TYME 52, VancouverJaylene Tyme has been a drag performer based in Vancouver for more than 30 years. Her show, Legends Cabaret, celebrates the art of drag and world class celebrity impersonations where she transforms into a variety of iconic divas including Dolly Parton, Cher, Marilyn Monroe, and Barbra Streisand. Jaylenes legendary status has garnered her the title of Empress 35 of Vancouver and Chairperson of the International Court council.MAKAYLA COUTURE 21, TorontoMakayla Couture attended a musical theater high school, where she first discovered her passion for performance. She had an appearance in Season 2 of CANADAS DRAG RACE where she took part in the makeover challenge and met her Drag Mother, Icesis Couture. She proudly represents both the Trans and Black communities with confidence and strength.MINHI WANG 39, TorontoMinhi Wang is a busy queen who works a full-time government job, is a part-time physiotherapist, and volunteers at a long-term care home by performing drag. She was a founding Pit Crew member in Season 1 of CANADAS DRAG RACE, and is an active water polo player and a member of the queer water polo team, The Toronto Triggerfish. PERLA 29, TorontoPerla has a unique editorial perspective on fashion and has worked in the industry for 10 years. She prides herself on having an arsenal of skills including singing, acting, and doing versatile makeup. However, she is best known in the drag scene for her wig styling and famous hair whips. She is the winner of the Absolut Empires Ball 2022, an annual event founded by Scarlett Bobo, which celebrates the dazzling artistry and creativity of drag.SANJINA DABISH QUEEN 32, TorontoSanjina DaBish Queen calls herself the Trans, Fijian, Bolly-hood queen of Toronto. Her signature drag style features a powerhouse of dance performances that incorporate her Fijian background and magical energy. She is a lead instructor in the Drag Masterclass run by the City of Toronto. TARA NOVA 23, St. JohnsIn just a few years, Tara Nova has climbed her way to the top of the Newfoundland & Labrador drag scene and has become one of the most booked queens in the capital. She is a self-taught seamstress who was recently awarded a grant from Arts NL to continue designing and creating. She wants to carry the mantle for the East Coast and show the world just how resourceful Atlantic Queens are.THE VIRGO QUEEN 25, TorontoThe Virgo Queen has been dancing and singing her whole life. Before beginning her career in drag, she was a finalist on the Canadian reality series THE NEXT STAR and had her taste of fame at the young age of 14. She embraces her full heritage as someone who is biracial and half-Indigenous, using it as inspiration to craft her unique voice as a drag artist.TIFFANY ANN CO. 32, VancouverTiffany Ann Co. is a proud 1st generation Vietnamese immigrant, and she is excited to represent her community on screen. She has a background in competitive hip hop, and with a little wind machine, head mic, and a rhinestone or two, Tiffany can make every performance feel like the Super Bowl half-time show.UMA GAHD 36, MontrealOne of the top queens in her city, Uma Gahd is in high demand, hosting and performing 15-30 shows every month. Uma Gahd is enthralled by old school drag and can effortlessly put together silly and conceptual performances that touch on gender and politics. She sold out her one woman drag comedy play, Are You There, Margaret? Its Me, Gahd, three nights in a row at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival.XANA 26, VancouverXana is the Drag Mogul & CEO of Vancouver. She is fiercely protective of her community and passionate about creating a safe, diverse scene including advocating for better pay, inclusive spaces, and reclaiming her Indigenous roots. She has raised thousands of dollars for Canadian charities which go to performer funds for disenfranchised communities and Trans health care. When asked why she devotes so much time to these causes, Xana says, If not me, then who?

Professional speaker and personal development coach, Carson Tueller, graced the January/February issue of Attitude with an inspiring photo spread that highlights body positivity and resilience. Some how we missed the spread, so we thought wed give it the attention it deserves today. Paralyzed in 2013, Tueller reflects on his evolving relationship with his body, embracing it as a partner in a beautiful, symbiotic relationship.In an exclusive interview, Tueller shares his perspective on disability, overcoming societal barriers, and finding freedom beyond physical limitations. Through his work, he empowers others to redefine freedom and self-worth, irrespective of physical abilities.Embracing His Body: Carsons JourneyTueller opens up about the emotional journey from once believing he had a perfect body to accepting his current self with love and respect. While societal barriers can often feel isolating, he shares that his personal growth stems from fully embracing his bodys capabilities.Carson Tueller on the Pride Podcast with Levi ChambersIn 2020, Carson Tueller joined Levi Chambers on the Pride Podcast for a heartfelt interview. During the episode, he opened up about the accident that left him paralyzed while trampolining in 2013. Tueller shared the emotional and physical challenges he faced after the accident, along with his journey toward embracing his new reality. His story serves as an inspiring testament to resilience and determination, emphasizing his message of creating radical freedom, which he continues to advocate today.Be sure to listen to the full episode for more insights into Carsons journey.The Nude Photoshoot: Pushing BoundariesFor Tueller, participating in the Real Bodies shoot was a bold step in body confidence. He explains how taking riskswhether traveling to places with limited accessibility or doing a nude photoshoothas boosted his self-assurance. His message is clear: he is not defined by his physical form, but collaborates with it to live fully.Creating Radical FreedomTueller uses his experience to challenge misconceptions about disability. He underscores that freedom isnt dependent on physical circumstances but on how we live in the world. Through his coaching and speaking, he encourages others to discover their own path to radical freedom by embracing their bodies as partners rather than obstacles.For more on Carson Tuellers powerful message and to view the full spread, head to Attitude.Photography by Drew Blackwell, styling by Jamie Grace, fashion assistance by Tyler Sparling, hair and makeup by Kela Wong using Balmain Hair and Charlotte Tilbury products.More StoriesCarson Kressley Once Hooked up With a RobberThe Aces Talk Representation Within Their MusicGus Kenworthy Joins Puppy Bowl Presents: The Winter GamesGay Army Veteran Andrs Hernandez Opens Up About Coming OutThe Problem With the LGBT Rights MovementThe post Carson Tuellers Empowering Real Bodies Shoot in Attitude appeared first on Gayety.

Estimated reading time: 5 minutesHow Did We Miss This? Nicky Champas Stunning Evening at El Matador Photoshoot Resurfaces!Photo by Alex EvansBack in 2018, Nicky Champa graced El Matador Beach in a breathtaking photoshoot by renowned photographer Alex Evans. Somehow, this sultry set of images flew under the radar for years, but now theyve resurfaced, and were wondering: how did we miss this masterpiece?Photo by Alex EvansChampa, already a rising star in the modeling world at the time, shows off his signature charm against the rugged California coastline, blending effortless sensuality with natural beauty. With the expertise of Evans behind the lens, these shots capture Champa in intimate and striking poses that seem timeless.Photo by Alex EvansUndeniable Chemistry: Nicky Champa and El MatadorThe chemistry between Champa and the natural landscape is undeniable. His perfectly styled look, groomed by Zaheer Sukhnandan, complements the raw, coastal environment. The result is a stunning balance of casual coolness and refined elegance, making each photo pop with emotion and grace.Photo by Alex EvansWhat Makes This Shoot Stand OutEl Matadors golden hues, crashing waves, and rocky cliffs create a stunning backdrop that elevates each of Nick Champas poses. The natural elements bring a dramatic and serene quality to the photos, while Champas boldness adds a sense of power and elegance. Evans masterful use of light and shadow deepens this dynamic, turning each shot into a striking visual experience.What sets this shoot apart is its ability to blend raw natural beauty with a sense of vulnerability and strength. The soft light reflects off the ocean, creating moments of reflection and highlighting Champas sculpted features, while the rugged coastline mirrors his confident stance. Its not just about capturing physical beauty but celebrating the natural allure of queer expression.Photo by Alex EvansThis shoot represents more than just great photographyits a celebration of self-assurance and fluidity, pushing the boundaries of what beachside photography can represent. The collaboration between Champa and Evans not only shows their individual talents but also creates a harmonious synergy between subject and environment, making the shoot a visual feast of artistry and identity.Photo by Alex EvansRediscovering the Magic of Nicky ChampaAlthough shot in 2018, long before his divorce from Pierre Crespeau, the Evening at El Matador photoshoot captures a moment in time where Nicky Champas charm and raw talent truly shine. This stunning visual series reminds us why hes a standout in the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.With four years passed, were revisiting the shoot with fresh eyes. The natural beauty of the beach, combined with Champas magnetic presence, gives the series a timeless quality that feels as captivating now as ever. Alex Evans expert photography, matched with Nickys striking confidence, continues to leave an impression.Photo by Alex EvansIf you havent experienced the magic of this shoot yet, nows the perfect time to dive into these breathtaking visuals and witness why Champas presence remains unforgettable.Photo by Alex EvansPhoto by Alex EvansMore StoriesWant a Superhero Crotch? Meet Matador MeggingsNicky Champa Looks Like a Greek God in Latest PhotosNicky and Pierre Secretly Got Married in Las VegasTikTok Stars Nicky and Pierre Get Intimate for Sexy Fenty CollabPower Couple Nicky Champa and Pierre Crespeau Break UpThe post Nick Champa Dazzles in Evening at El Matador Photoshoot by Alex Evans appeared first on Gayety.

A Democratic, transmasculine nonbinary Congressional candidate from Louisiana just released a powerful video emphasizing their commitment to supporting transgender rights.Mel Manuel is running for Louisianas First Congressional District, which is currently represented by House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R), who is seeking reelection. Their campaign website says that theyre running on a platform of universal, free healthcare, bodily autonomy, living wages, and opposition to all forms of bigotry. Related Many House Republicans are bitter with regret about expelling George Santos Santoss seat was just filled by a Democrat. In the video, Manuel is depicted injecting testosterone while speaking to voters: The toxic forces of fear and hatred are threatening to consume our nation. If we dont take a stand, the November election could be the last gasp of Democratic freedom as we know it. 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 believe that you, not the government, owns your own body. LGBTQ rights are human rights.In the description of the video, they say, Republican candidates have spent more than $65 million dollars on anti-Trans ads since August of this year alone. They were referring to a recent New York Times analysis.To my LGBTQ+ family and our allies No one is coming to save us. We have to show up at the polls for ourselves and for those we love. Ive spent the last year and a half campaigning because we need to speak up and be represented before its too late. You can speak up now with your vote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mel Manuel for Louisiana (@mel4louisiana)According to their campaign website, they are the Director of Operations for the Louisiana Abortion Fund as well as the co-director of LGBTQ+ nonprofit Queer Northshore. They also serve on the Executive Committee of the Louisiana Democratic Party and are a board member of the St. Tammany Library Alliance.They are the sole Democrat running against three Republican candidates and one unaffiliated candidate.Louisiana has open elections where anyone can run for Congress, and a runoff is held if no candidate gets over 50% of the vote, as opposed to primaries like other states have.Scalise has been in office since 1996 and is one of the most dominant Republican figures in the House. Currently, he is the House Majority Leader, and he previously served as the House Republicans Whip. He also ran for speaker of the House in 2023 but withdrew due to not securing enough votes.Scalise is one of the most anti-LGBTQ+ candidates out there, receiving a 0/100 on the Human Rights Campaigns Congressional Scorecard. He opposed the repeal of Dont Ask, Dont Tell, which banned gay and bisexual people from serving openly in the military; voted against including LGBTQ+ people in anti-hate crime legislation; and opposes same-sex marriage. He is also anti-immigrant and is a fierce supporter of former President Donald Trump.Louisianas First Congressional District voted for Trump by a 38-point margin in 2020, which means that a Democrat like Manuel faces an uphill battle.Early voting for the Louisiana Congressional elections is between October 18 and October 29, with election day taking place on November 5.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Actor Marlon Wayans reveals that, before he was accepting of his transgender son, Kai, he attempted hypnotic conversion therapy on them.Wayans spoke to Neal Brennan for his podcast, Blocks Podcast, and said that he was not always accepting of his son, and in fact tried multiple different methods to keep Kai from being trans. Related Marlon Wayans slams Elon Musks transphobia against his own daughter Wayans has been a vocal advocate for trans youth after his own son came out as trans. He said, I tried to hypnotize that b**ch. And I protested against it and I dont say that with pride. I look back on those actions and Im ashamed. I was embarrassed the moment I was forced to look in the mirror. I was embarrassed. 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 Hypnotic conversion therapy is one genre of the discredited practice that has resulted in immeasurable harm towards LGBTQ+ individuals. There is no evidence that conversion therapy works, and evidence links the practice with worsened mental health and increased risk for depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.He also said that he attempted to impose sanctions on Kai to keep them from transitioning, such as withholding their allowance.[Kai] was like, So what? F**k it, Ill starve, Wayans said. Nothing was working. This is what they wanted to do. I always said I want my kids to be happy. In order to be happy, youre not gonna please everybody.Wayans says that he realized its not his job to try and change his child, its his job to love and support his child no matter what.This is their life and they should be happy if they do this and if they want to change back or whatever they want to doits not on me to punch down on my child. Its on me to love my child. Period. Thats all, all I can do is love my child and thats what I do, he said. Wayans has not talked about theses experiences previously, only briefly mentioning his prior ignorance during statements by stating, The more you know yourself, the more you can govern yourself, the more you live your truth, the happier your existence. So, if they cant get that in a household with their father and their mother, how the f**k do I send them out into the world with that kind of confidence? And Im just so proud of them for being them but that dont mean that I aint got jokes.Marlon Wayans is known for starring in hit comedy films like White Chicks (2004), Scary Movie (2000), and Dance Flick (2009). He is most known for starring in the sitcom The Wayan Bros. (1995-1999) with his brother Shawn Wayans and first became famous in the 90s when he appeared on In Living Color, a sketch comedy show created by his brother Keenan Ivory Wayans. Wayans previously spoke out against transphobia, calling out Elon Musk for not accepting his trans daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson. He told the podcast Club Shay Shay that hes about to drive his Tesla off a cliff because of Musks behavior towards Wilson. Musk has deliberately misgendered Wilson, claiming she is dead and was killed by the woke mind virus. I dont like what he be saying about his trans child. You dont treat them babies like that, you dont disown your baby. Love your child!During Pride Month, he posted multiple pictures of his child in celebration. When he was met with a bunch of haters in his replies, he said, As a father of a child in the LGBTQ+ community I show my support. Zero f**ks what people think. If i lost you GOOD! Your hateful a** never loved me in the first place. How can you love anyone when youre too busy judging. Some of yall funny. Im a troll. Ill post all day.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

The Trevor Project connected with Alice Oseman (she/they), the author and illustrator for Heartstopper, which was adapted into a Netflix series in 2022. Heartstopper has won multipleChildrens & Family Emmys, including awards for acting and overall excellence, and the series third season is out now.How do you think your series contributes to positive representation of LGBTQ+ youth in the media, and why is this so important for young viewers today?Heartstopper shows a diverse range of queer experiences and portrays these characters going through very relatable, universal teenage experiences such as falling in love, friendship drama, figuring out your identity, bullying and mental health issues. It shows teenagers that theyre going to be okay, and that they should embrace and celebrate exactly who they are.What have you heard from LGBTQ+ young people regarding the show?Ive heard from many LGBTQ+ young people that Heartstopper has helped them in their own life in some way, whether thats in their coming out journey, finding self-acceptance, help with reaching out to family and friends, and speaking more openly about difficult subjects such as mental illness.In season 3 we see the character Isaac continue to explore what it means to be aroace (asexual and aromantic). What inspired you to include this narrative, and why do you think its important for audiences to see asexuality represented alongside other queer identities?It was important to me to include an aroace character in Heartstopper because I am also aroace and I know firsthand the effects of the lack of representation of aroace people in media. There are extremely few examples of aro or ace characters in TV and film, which contributes to the fact that many a-spec people have no idea that they might be aro and/or ace, because theyve never heard of those identities.Heartstopper is really a perfect opportunity for me to provide some representation to those people, and I hope that it will help them find some understanding and acceptance of themselves, or at least inspire them to learn more. I also hope that it will teach people about these identities, so that our community can be better understood.How do you hope Heartstopper encourages allyship within the LGBTQ+ community, and what key lessons do you want viewers to take away?I hope that by showing a range of experiences under the queer umbrella, it promotes the importance of empathy, friendship, and community. The main lesson to take away from Heartstopper is that no matter what dark time you might be going through, with the right support around you there is always joy and hope to be found.What else can we expect in Season 3?Theres so much to explore in season 3! Characters dealing with mental health issues, characters beginning to explore sex, characters going on gender and sexuality journeys, characters tackling bigotry such as transphobia, family drama, therapy chats, cute dogs, and Jonathan Bailey cameo-ing as a famous classics professor.The post Heartstoppers Alice Oseman on Season 3, LGBTQ+ Representation, and Asexual and Aromantic Identities appeared first on The Trevor Project.