Lets be real, its been a rough week, and we could all use a little escape from reality. Thats why weve rounded up the best LGBTQ+ Hallmark movies for you to binge because the stakes are low, the entertainment value is high, and the problems are always solved by the end of the film.Are the movies formulaic? Of course, but thats what we need right now. Who wants to be surprised by a depressing or stressful plot twist when you can leave your brain behind and sink into a Hallmark movie? Take comfort in the quaint small-town vibes, quirky characters, predictable cheesy plot that will warm your heart, and a guaranteed happy ending. There is no bury your gays trope to be found here; its only happily ever afters for these characters. While the Hallmark Channel still largely focuses on straight couples, they have made a handful of LGBTQ+ rom-coms and films with queer leads. So forget about the stressors of the election and focus on binge-watching as many adorable romance movies as you can!Christmas on Cherry LaneChristmas on Cherry Lane is one of those fun rom-coms with a large ensemble cast. The film follows three different couples, including a gay couple played by gay actor Jonathan Bennet and Vincent Rodriguez III, who are having 24 guests over for the holidays while their kitchen is being remodeled its the kind of silly plot that will entertain and relax your over-stressed brain.Where to watch: Hallmark+, NetflixNotes of AutumnThe fall-themed gay rom-com Notes of Autumn stars out Bros actor Luke Mcfarlane as best-selling author Leo, who swaps places with his best friend Ellie when hes in a writing slump. Leo moves to the big city and falls for Ellies friend Matt, played by Peter Porte. Where to watch: Hallmark+, Hoopla, or rent on VODFriends & Family ChristmasFake dating is always a fun trope in rom-coms, but its even better in Friends & Family Christmas because its queer! Marking Hallmarks first lesbian holiday romance, the film follows photographer Dani (Humberly Gonzalez), who asks lawyer Amelia, played by queer actress Ali Liebert, to pretend to be her girlfriend when her parents surprise her with a visit. Of course, the two catch feelings and fall hopelessly in love.Where to watch: Hallmark+The Christmas HouseOut actors Jonathan Bennett and Brad Harder play the Hallmark Channels first gay married couple in The Christmas House. The film centers around an older couple and their two adult children who come home for Christmas. Bennet plays son Brandon, who is hoping to adopt a child with his husband Jake (Harder).Where to watch: Prime Video, PeacockRaise a Glass to LoveWhile Raise a Glass to Love is a romance about a straight couple, it stars Juan Pablo Di Pace, who came out publicly in 2019 in a TEDx talk in the Netherlands. The film follows aspiring master sommelier Jenna, who returns to her family vineyard to study but ends up falling for a handsome Argentinian winemaker named Marcelo, played by Di Pace.Where to watch: Hallmark+, Peacock, or TubiThe Holiday SitterJonathan Bennett stars in, and executive produced The Holiday Sitter, the networks first Christmas movie with a gay couple as the main love story. Not only does the cute movie star Bennett, but his love interest is played by another out actor, George Krissa. In the film, the Mean Girls actor plays Sam, who puts his bachelor lifestyle on hold to babysit his niece and nephew around the holidays and ends up falling for his handsome neighbor Jason, played by Krissa.Where to watch: Hallmark+The Secrets of Bella VistaDonia Kash made history as the first openly nonbinary actor to star in a Hallmark movie. Kash plays queer character Suzette in The Secrets of Bella Vista, a film about a woman who inherits an apple orchard that is deep in debt with a half-sister she didnt know about and then uses her knowledge of antiques to save the orchard.Where to watch: Hallmark+, PeacockA Merry Christmas MatchKyle Dean Massey, who has acted alongside his real-life husband Taylor Frey in several films, stars in this quaint Hallmark movie. A Merry Christmas Match follows a woman who wonders if she should have left town and followed her dreams instead of working in her mothers antique shop in a small ski village after she meets a handsome man.Where to watch: Hallmark+

If things are bad for Laverne Cox, a trans woman with at least some amount of money and security afforded by fame, you know it's bad. In an interview for Variety, the 52-year-old Orange is the New Black star opened up about her fears for Trump's second term. Cox, like many people, is considering fleeing the United States. She said she and a few friends are, "Doing research on different cities in Europe and in the Caribbean." Cox has been taking notes on how much of Trump's rise to power over the past decade reflects other fascist regimes throughout history, especially Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party. There was this a thriving community of queer people in Berlin pre the rise of Nazism. They attacked Jewish folks. They attacked immigrants, they attacked queer and trans people," said Cox. She's right. In the early part of the 20th century, the Hirschfeld Institute for Sexual Science in Berlin was doing groundbreaking resource on trans people, trans health care, and even gender confirmation surgery. The destruction of the Institute by the Nazis in May 1933 set trans people back decades.See on InstagramCox is famous, yes, but she's still a very publicly well known Black, trans woman. She has all the right in the world to be worried."I dont want to be in too much fear, but Im scared," she shared, adding, "As a public figure, with all my privilege, Im scared, and Im particularly scared because Im a public figure. I feel like I could be targeted. I think they spent close to $100 million on anti-trans ads. Its deeply concerning."Cox also shared that she's now joining the many trans people, myself included, who've been stockpiling HRT for fear of not being able to get hormones sometime soon. Said Cox, "Im done with my medical transition, but I have to take estrogen for the rest of my life. If I stop I get hot flashes. Its really bad. I have to take estrogen just for health. I dont know if thats going to be possible anymore."There are resources for hormones outside of traditional pharmacies, and they're easier to access for those on estrogen or progesterone. Cox shared, "Theres a website Ive gone to already. I havent bought any yet because Im talking to my doctor to make sure its all reputable and good product. But, yeah, Im gonna hoard a bunch of estrogen. Its a little trickier for trans men because testosterone is a controlled substance. But there are resources online."See on InstagramCox was asked what advice she has for trans people still looking to make a career in Hollywood, especially in a time where creatives might be increasingly cautious on taking on queer projects. She spoke about a friend's 16-year-old daughter who, through her parent's support, was able to access gender affirming care early on."If a young person has the privilege of getting gender affirming care that blocks their puberty and they can live stealth, I would tell them to do that," said Cox. She continued, "Thats obviously not an option for everybody. That wasnt an option for me but I think if you can live stealth right now Im so scared for her [Cox begins to cry]. I just want her to be safe. At this point, whatever you have to do to be safe and not be killed or terrorized so much as you want to kill yourself, [do it to] stay alive."Cox does end on a hopeful note, reflecting on a career that no one thought was possible for her to have as an out Black, trans woman in 2011. And yet, here she is today in all her glory. Cox ended her interview saying, "I have a career as a working actor and producer and other things. Nobody thought that was possible. So always follow your dreams. Never give up on your dreams, no matter what the circumstances. I would also say, learn the business, learn the market and be safe. Find ways to create your own work, create your own opportunities with social media. Have business savvy along with a commitment to the art, and never give up on your dreams."See on Instagram

Pati Arana is the go-to hairstylist for men in Los Angeles. Her client list is a whos who of influencers from reality TV personalities to YouTubers to TikTokers to members of the adult industry, her salon chair remains full. Talk to any of these influencers, mostly from the queer community, and they will tell []The post Pati Arana is Climbing to the Summit appeared first on GEDmagazine.

Music wafts from inside a mid-size house with a butterfly roof and sparkling pool. The gospel-tinged stereophonic voice of Aretha Franklin soars above the palms and nearby foothills of San Jacinto Mountain. The cyan sky canvasses a perfectly unremarkable 86 degrees. Two men sit poolside. Their umber-brown skin glistens in the afternoon sunlight. The thalian []The post THE LOST DAY: Gay Literary Giant James Baldwin in 1968 Palm Springs appeared first on GEDmagazine.

When Cooper Koch revealed that he's in a happy, committed relationship, gay hearts across the globe shattered into pieces. But now that the Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story star has officially gone public with his boyfriend, Stuart McClave, fans are eager to know more.The two stepped out at the 2024 LACMA Art+Film Gala in Los Angeles last weekend, where they were seen posing for a pic with Kim Kardashian and looking sharp. (@) (@) The details of their relationship are largely a mystery for now we don't know how long they've been together or how they met. We do know that Koch is really serious about McClave, and it sounds as if the feeling is mutual.And we also know at least a little bit about McClave himself:He grew up in California.See on InstagramAccording to McClave's Wikipedia, he was born in Washington, D.C., but grew up in Los Angeles, even attending the University of Southern California.He's a former development executive. (@) McClave previously worked at both NBC Universal and the Discovery Channel, where he racked up a number of associate producer credits on reality shows such as How Booze Built America and World's Toughest Trucker.He's a filmmaker.See on InstagramMcClave made the leap to writing, directing, and producing a documentary of his own with 2022's On the Line: The Richard Williams Story, about the father and coach of Serena and Venus Williams.He's older than Koch.See on InstagramThe Monsters star was born in 1996, while McClave's birthday is August 29, 1987.Koch wears a ring to symbolize their commitment."I was with my boyfriend, and we went into my room, and I was looking through my jewelry. And I had this ring that was my grandfather's, and I was like, 'Oh, I should just wear this ring,'" Koch previously said. "And then we just put it on my ring finger, and it just kind of became this little, I don't know... romantic, like, protective mechanism."

And another one bites the dust!Donald Trump winning the presidential election was a kick in the teeth, but its made even worse by the fact that we keep finding out that celebs we like have secretly been MAGA fans all along.First, it was gay adult film star Devin Franco announcing his love of Trump in the comment section of someones post on X (formerly Twitter), and now singer Nicole Scherzinger has done the same thing, and we are so disappointed.Scherzinger, who won over the gay community in the early 2000s when she one of the Pussy Cat Dolls, and cemented her place in queer hearts by playing Norma Desmond in the current Broadway revival of Sunset Boulevard, a role originated by Patti LuPone.On Thursday, just two days after the presidential election which has left the LGBTQ+ community reeling, Scherzinger was set to take the stage for that nights performance of Sunset Boulevard when a screenshot of a comment the former Pussy Cat Doll left on one of Russell Brands Instagram posts started going viral for all the wrong reasons.The British comedian (and alleged serial sexual abuser) posted a photo of himself wearing a red MAGA-style hat that reads MAKE JESUS FIRST AGAIN along with the caption, God Bless America.Scherzinger horrified fans when she commented, Where do I get this hat!!!? (@) The pro-Trump Instagram post and Scherzingers comment have been making the rounds on social media after Time Out New York theater editor and critic Adam Feldman took a screenshot of her comment and posted it to X before she deleted it.The post shocked he gay fanbase and had them questioning the love of the singer. While people were caught off guard by her seeming support of Trump and the MAGA movement, it shouldnt have been too surprising that she would like this particular post, considering how religious she is. Scherzinger was raised Catholic and in 2016 she said she almost didnt take the role in the TV adaptation of Dirty Dancing because her character gets and abortion, It was like a crazy thing because, my family, my Papas a Bishop and my familys really hardcore against abortion, she told the Daily Mail, adding I just want to, you know, encourage everybody to keep your babies.Regardless of her religious affiliation, its also surprising to find Scherzinger hanging out in Brands comment section considering the comedian-turned-conservative-spiritual-hack was accused of sexual assault and rape by several women last year. Although he denied all of the allegations, the womens stories were detailed.Hes also not the only conservative person shes interacted with online; she also liked a post by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. where he talked about his pledge to restore free speech, end the forever wars, and protect childrens health when Trumps in the White House. (@) As the screenshot started blowing up online, Scherzingers gay fans took to X to express their disappointment in the star in the funniest ways possible. From people saying that Patti LuPone will drag Nicole Scherzinger by her vocal cords to people joking that her Tony Award nomination will be taken away, the gays went in with no mercy, and we cant stop laughing. Listen we are NOT playing around anymore, OK?Keep scrolling to see the funniest reactions from Gay Twitter! (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@)

(As seen at daphealth.org) DAP Health Chief of Brand Marketing Steven Henke lives the lyrics of Miss Diana Ross Theres a new me coming out. And I just had to live. And I wanna give. Im completely positive. I literally grew up on the prairie, says DAP Health Chief of Brand Marketing Steven Henke.The []The post Theres a NEW me Coming OUT appeared first on GEDmagazine.

Chappell Roan hit up the Grammy Museum this week to chat about her stratospheric rise to fame and her mental health struggles.Brandi Carlile facilitated the conversation with Roan and producer/songwriter Dan Nigro, who helped write "Pink Pony Club" back in 2018."I wore only black onstage. It was very serious," Roan said of her career before The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess. "The second that I took myself not seriously is when things started working." (@) Saying "things started working" feels like a gross understatement. There's zero question that Roan's career skyrocketed practically over night, leading her to headline festivals, perform at the VMAs, and swing by Saturday Night Live, where she recently debuted a brand new song ("Itll come out, dont worry," she said).And taking on all that at once has definitely been a challenge for her, particularly when it comes to figuring out how to take care of herself."Every big thing that happens in someone's career happened in, like, five months for me. So it's so crazy that things I never thought would happen happened, like times 10," Roan said. "My life is completely different now, so my mental health routine is like, everything is out of whack right now.""This time last year, the way I took care of myself was, like, going to bed on time. Literally being diligent about how much time I spent online. And going outside and having fun with friends. But a lot of those things, like going outside, is different now," she explained. (@) But she's figuring it out, especially when it comes to setting boundaries between her real life and her life as "Chappell Roan," which she confirmed is purely a persona for performing."I just can't be her all the time," she admitted. "It's just too much."

One thing about Bob The Drag Queen? She always keeps it real.The comical RuPaul's Drag Race winner has shaded Drag Race Down Under quite a few times in the past, so the queens currently competing on show recently asked Bob to give the new season a chance.While she reluctantly agreed, the star is not too thrilled by the idea."I am going to be watching the first episode of Down Under. I told the girls I would watch episode one. I haven't gotten around to it yet! We've been busy in America, I'm sure they can understand. I'm not excited, but I will watch it. I'm a man of my word," Bob tells PRIDE. See on Instagram It's understandable that Bob hasn't had a chance to watch the new season as she's been busier than ever.Not only does she host her successful podcast Sibling Rivalry with Mont X Change, but she's also traveling across the US on her This is Wild Tour."I'm really proud of this tour. I'm doing a really good job. People seem to be responding really well. It is comedy and I'm funny, so how apropos. This is my love letter to millennials for sure."Plus, Bob has been invested in the presidential election like the rest of us this week. Following the results, she's hilariously blaming Moo Deng for Donald Trump's win."Moo Deng is officially on my sh** list. It's a wrap for that hippo. We're going to find out if hippo tastes like bacon." See on Instagram If you're overwhelmed by Bob's schedule, then gear up for her other two big projects in the works.Over the past four years, the queen wrote her debut novel, Harriet Tubman: Live in Concert, that serves as a dynamic story about love, freedom, salvation, and hip-hop."It is a novel about Harriet Tubman coming back to life and writing a hip-hop album to continue her work of abolition! I couldn't be more proud."Finally, fans will get to see Bob back on their TV screens this January as the new season of The Traitors premieres. While she's joining an all-star cast of reality TV legends, this queen didn't even know any of her costars while filming."The truth is, I didn't know who any of them were! I did not know a single one of those people and I'm not being shady. That's just me being honest!"Fans can get tickets to see Bob The Drag Queen on tour by visiting her official website. To see the full interview, check out the video at the top of the page.

GLAAD joined 165 and counting LGBTQ organizations around the country to send a strong message after the election: weve got this weve got us. Our community has risen again and again to meet moments that have challenged our rights, our humanity, and our freedom. This week is no different. Read the full message and [...]The post GLAAD and 150+ Coalition Partners: Weve got this. Weve got us. first appeared on GLAAD.

In the days since the election, which left most of us scared and angry, a new devious trend has emerged on social media, and were LIVING for it!In an act of revolution or mustache-twirling revenge the LGBTQ+ community is doing its part to make life as uncomfortable as possible for Donald Trump supporters by outing hypocritical men.The trend of outing DL trade or masculine closeted men who hook up with gay men on the down low seems to have started on Election Day by Edgar Mariscal, who uses the handle La Coochie Versace on X (formerly Twitter) when he wrote, If your DL trade is voting for Trump you have the right to out them. (@) Men who are happy to go to pound down with other men but vote for a conservative politician who has vowed to make queer lives miserable are hypocrites. So while purposefully outing closet cases is controversial, were happy to overlook it in this case. These men dont deserve to be in your bed or have your protection.Donald Trump not only won the electoral college but the popular vote as well, which means that there are likely people in your life who voted against your interests, which is likely why this trend has blown up on social media. Keep scrolling to see the hilarious responses to people outing their DL trade. (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@)

We could all use a little optimism right now.It's a really rough week to be a queer person, but not all is lost. There are still things to look forward to, there is still much queer joy to be had. We will continue to dance and revolt and grieve and organize as we always have.If you're struggling to remain hopeful through all the bad news, we've compiled a list of some of the most joyful upcoming queer events to get you through the next 6 months.November: Seeing "Wicked" on the big screen in all its green glorySee on InstagramListen, I've love Wicked since the first time I heard the soundtrack: I was in the third grade, and I was in love with a boy named Sam Francisco (yes, that is his real name and yes, it's still funny to me), and his mom would play the soundtrack every time we drove in her minivan to his house. If I wasn't going to let Ethan Slater's presence in the film spoil my good time, I'm certainly not going to let Donald Trump's existence in the universe spoil it either. Wicked premieres in theaters November 22nd.November: Seeing 'Queer', and hopefully seeing a lot of Daniel CraigSee on InstagramMany of the biggest blockbusters of the year are saved for the holiday season, but this year's lineup is looking especially, well, Queer. Queer, based on the William S. Burroughs novella of the same name, stars Daniel Craig as an American expat in 1940s Mexico City, who becomes obsessed with another man, played by Drew Starkey. It's one of the most anticipated movies of the year, and is definitely going to be one you don't want to miss seeing in theaters.Queer premieres November 27th.December: those sexy gay mermen ornamentsSee on InstagramListen, sometimes it's the little things that really keep you going. Am I Jewish? Yes, but a hunk's a hunk! I'll just keep them around like Precious Moments figurines, but gayer and sluttier.We'll refrain from putting them out until December, but these sexy little mermen are available online now.January: Girls Just Wanna Weekend 6See on InstagramDo you need something big to look forward to? Why not make it Girls Just Wanna Weekend? GJWW is Brandi Carlile's music festival held every year in Riviera Maya, Mexico, there's no pitch here, it sells itself. This year the headliners are Brandi Carlile, Shania Twain, and MUNA. If you'd like to be absolutely anywhere else on inauguration day, this is the place to be. Let's go, girls!Girls Just Wanna Weekend runs from January 16-20, and tickets are available here.February: What is definitely going to be a very gay Grammy AwardsSee on InstagramQueer musicians have been dominating this year, and the 2025 Grammy Awards are full of nominations for LGBTQ+ artists. I'm definitely expecting noms for Billie Eilish, Doechii, Chappell Roan, Troye Sivan, and Madison Beer. It's stacked in every category this year.The Grammy Awards will air on February 2, 2025. February: Lady Gaga's new album, 'LG7'See on InstagramIf Gaga's first single, "Disease," is any indicator of how good this album is going to be, we're in for a real treat. We'll need banger after banger to get through the beginning of Trump's second term, and Gaga is absolutely going to deliver.LG7 has no solid release date yet, but is going to release some time February 2025.Reading "Stop Me if You've Heard This One" by Kristen Arnett and "Stag Dance" by Torrey PetersSee on InstagramNot just one, but TWO of my favorite queer authors have books coming out in March of 2025, and that's worth sticking around for. Kristen Arnett and Torey Peters are two queer writers whose work you should check out if you haven't already, and you've definitely got a little time to do so!Stag House comes out March 11, 2025 and Stop Me if You've Heard This One comes out March 18, 2025.June: Pride EVERYWHERESee on InstagramIf you really need something to keep you going, remember that no matter what rain or shine, come hell or high water queer people are going to be here. We are going to get together to celebrate our history and fight for our futures. Wherever you are, making plans for pride next year is the kind of silver lining we should all be focused on.June: Camp Lost BoysSee on InstagramCamp Lost Boys is a summer camp for trans men ages 18+. Previous camps have been held in Oregon, and while dates have yet to be set for their West coast camp, next year will be there first with an East Coast counterpart! The East Coast Camp will be in Pennsylvania in June with all the traditional camp activities: You'll sleep in dorm-style cabins or military-type tents, swim at the waterfront, maybe even learn a little archery. It's an incredibly unique opportunity for trans men you don't want to miss.Camp Lost Boys East Coast will be held from June 13-16 in Pennsylvania and registration is open here. Camp Lost Boys West Coast has yet to set dates, but has been held in Oregon previously during the last weekend in August/first weekend in September. You can sign up to receive email updates about camp here. June: Queer Wine Fest 2025See on InstagramEvery year at the end of June, Remy Drabkin of Remy Wines hosts Queer Wine Fest. It's a big gay celebration of enology, queer wine makers, and a great event to end pride month. The Willamette Valley is gorgeous, and if you need a little rest and relaxation after priding it up all month long, there's no better place for it.Queer Wine Fest will be held June 29th, 2025, and more information can be found here.

Oh, hi Cody Fern!\u201cA rose between two thorns. Well.\u201d Cody Fern UK \ud83c\udf39 (@Cody Fern UK \ud83c\udf39) 1678129986Cody Fern entered the Ryan Murphy multiverse with his portrayal of David Madson on The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story. Since then, the actor has been featured in several seasons of American Horror Story, playing Michael Langdon in Apocalypse, Xavier Plympton in 1984, and Valiant Thor in Double Feature. He was also featured as Stan Vogel and Thomas Browne on the American Horror Stories spinoff.Fern rocked our world last year when he shared an ultra-revealing thirst trap where he appears fully naked expect for a rose emoji covering his goodies. The actors body also looks completely sweaty and/or oiled up as hes posing in front of a mirror and taking this selfie straight from his phone. Even though the picture was shared on his Instagram Story, a lot of thirsty fans re-shared the image all over the internet.But that's not the only time he drove the gays wild with his steamy pics!Scroll through to check out some more sexy pictures from Cody Fern.See on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on Instagram (@) See on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on Instagram

This years Grammy nominations spotlight an impressive range of talent, with diverse voices and queer representation leading the charge. Heres a look at the major categories and the artists making waves in the music industrys biggest celebration.Related | Chappell Roan Claps Back at Stalking Fans: Im Allowed to Say NoRecord of the YearAn eclectic mix of legendary icons and contemporary stars are nominated for Record of the Year:Now And Then The BeatlesTexas Hold Em BeyoncEspresso Sabrina Carpenter360 Charli XCXBirds of a Feather Billie EilishNot Like Us Kendrick LamarGood Luck, Babe! Chappell RoanFortnight Taylor Swift featuring Post MaloneAlbum of the YearThe Album of the Year category celebrates profound musical storytelling across genres:New Blue Sun Andr 3000Cowboy Carter BeyoncShort n Sweet Sabrina CarpenterBrat Charli XCXDjesse Vol. 4 Jacob CollierHit Me Hard and Soft Billie EilishThe Rise And Fall Of A Midwest Princess Chappell RoanThe Tortured Poets Department Taylor SwiftBest Pop Solo PerformanceTop contenders for Best Pop Solo Performance include:Bodyguard BeyoncEspresso Sabrina CarpenterApple Charli XCXBirds of a Feather Billie EilishGood Luck, Babe! Chappell RoanBest Pop Duo/Group PerformanceCelebrating collaborations, the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance nominees are:Us. Gracie Abrams featuring Taylor SwiftLeviis Jeans Beyonc featuring Post MaloneGuess Charli XCX and Billie EilishThe Boy is Mine Ariana Grande, Brandy, and MonicaDie With A Smile Lady Gaga and Bruno MarsBest Pop Vocal AlbumA diverse set of albums vie for Best Pop Vocal Album:Short n Sweet Sabrina CarpenterHit Me Hard and Soft Billie EilishEternal Sunshine Ariana GrandeThe Rise And Fall Of A Midwest Princess Chappell RoanThe Tortured Poets Department Taylor SwiftBest Music VideoNominations for Best Music Video include visually striking works:Tailor Swift A$AP Rocky360 Charli XCXHoudini EminemNot Like Us Kendrick LamarFortnight Taylor Swift featuring Post MaloneNotable Trends and SurprisesThis years Grammys highlight some much-deserved recognition. Charli XCX finally takes her place in the spotlight with multiple nominations, celebrating her boundary-pushing pop style that fans and critics alike have championed. Billie Eilish also continues to stun, earning accolades for Hit Me Hard and Soft, widely praised as one of her most heart-wrenching albums yet. Her raw lyrics and haunting melodies resonate deeply, capturing the intense emotions of a generation.Not everyone is celebrating, though. Ariana Grandes fans have voiced frustration over the exclusion of Eternal Sunshine from the marquee Album of the Year category, though it did land a Best Pop Vocal Album nomination. Released in March after a three-year break, the album features hits like Yes, And? and We Cant Be Friends (Wait for Your Love) and was eagerly awaited by fans.From the ongoing success of icons like Beyonc and Taylor Swift to unexpected nods for trailblazers like The Beatles and newcomers like Chappell Roan, this years Grammy lineup showcases the Grammys commitment to recognizing artistry in its many forms.The 67th Annual Grammy Awards will take place in February, 2025. More Stories: The 2025 Grammy Nominations Chappell Roan, Charli XCX, Billie Eilish, and More!What Is Project 2025? A Closer Look at Its Potential Impact on LGBTQ+ RightsHistoric Achievements of LGBTQ+ Candidates in the 2024 ElectionDonald Trump Secures 2024 Victory: What Lies Ahead for the NationJonathan Bailey Learns About the Word Zaddy With Jeff GoldblumThe post The 2025 Grammy Nominations Chappell Roan, Charli XCX, Billie Eilish, and More! appeared first on Gayety.

The nominees for the 67th Grammy Awards were announced on November 8 and among the LGBTQ nominees, Chappell Roan, Billie Eilish, and Doechii scored multiple nominations in categories across the board. Breakout pop star of the year Chappell Roan is nominated six times four of which are in major categories including Song of the Year [...]The post GRAMMYS 2025: Queer Women and LGBTQ Allies Dominate Nominations for 67th Grammy Awards first appeared on GLAAD.

Here are this weeks most popular positive stories, with some fun social media posts tossed in too. Like seeing uplifting content like this?Sign up for our Good News email.It has been a hard week, and while were more committed now than ever to sharing empowering, uplifting stories, we wanted to offer some compassion and encouragement too:Its an emotional time, and its good (and vital) to express our feelings, both alone and with others. Remember, nearly 70 million others also voted for progress, equality and decency and were heading into the future with them.Throughout history, weve needed healers, artists, warriors, and caring neighbors, and well need them in the days ahead. We cant always control our circumstances, but we can positively impact our immediate communities, families, and friends that is our magic power and let us not forget it. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Community advocates are already strategizing how to protect the most vulnerable so we can remain unified and strong. May this weeks stories remind you of the positive possibilities and immense good we can still accomplish, even in challenging times. Its time to put the fun back in funeral View this post on Instagram A post shared by For Better or Words, Inc. (@forbetterorwordsinc) Rachel Maddow dropped a perfectly timed gay joke just when we needed it mostOur favorite lesbian pundit made her co-anchors burst out laughing on the air during a nail-biting night.Talking about community, remember whenCalifornia made its state a sanctuary for trans kids and their families? How about whena group of neighbors successfully stood up to an attempt to silence queer voices? And did you ever hearthe real-life story about howMelissa Etheridges pool parties with Ellen & Rosie inspiredThe L Word? Woman shares heartfelt message about supporting her LGBTQ+ friends & familyIn a private moment, she shared some sincere emotion and its moving to watch.This historic ruling could make a big difference for many trans peopleThe case involved two military members and healthcare, but its speaks to the larger issue of fairness. Did you remember to walk your dog today? View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Broadway Enthusiast (@broadwayfocus) 4 Election Day victories for LGBTQ+ people to keep in mindThe election had several bright spots here are some you might not have known about!Hawaii passes pro-same-sex marriage amendmentHawaii is the state where the fight for marriage equality started. Now its constitution reflects that. Jamie Lee Curtis offers an inspiring post-election message of hopeThe award-winning actress and ally wrote about the future of our community, and itll put a warm, empowering glow in your heart. Kathryn Hepburn gets a bit queer in the 1935 film Sylvia Scarlett View this post on Instagram A post shared by Queer Cinema Archive (@queer.cinema.archive)Chlo Grace Moretz comes out in an unexpected way!The popular actress has long been considered part of the queer community and has now made it official. Sarah McBride makes history as the first trans member of Congress.Trans representation has never been more needed, and were finally getting it in Congress. Heres why her victory is so important Emily Randall will be the first out LGBTQ+ Latina woman in Congress.Another historic first happened this week. Learn how she blazed a path to victory.When somethings going wrong, you must whip it View this post on Instagram A post shared by spawnraunch (@spawnranch) From our sibling sites:OUTSPORTS:Tom Daley names most important thing LGBTQ athletes can do, as he launches exhibitionGAYCITIES:Looking to move out of the U.S.? Consider this list of suggested countries.QUEERTY:What can a single gay guy do if hes craving a cuddle or hug?INTO:In the wake of Trumps win, trans folks are sharing this crucial message with each other

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is suing five related entities operating Culvers restaurants in Michigan, alleging a transgender employee of the regional fast food chain and three of his co-workers were fired for reporting anti-trans harassment.According to an October 25 EEOC press release, Asher Lucas, a transgender Culvers shift manager was subjected to repeated harassment by two other employees, including being misgendered, deadnamed, and having his birth name publicized without his consent. Related Pizzeria will pay trans man $25,000 after brutal harassment forced him to quit His coworkers called him a pedophile and asked if he had female parts. The EEOC alleges that three of Lucas colleagues witnessed a fellow employee, described in the press release as hostile toward gay and transgender people, make anti-trans comments and misgender Lucas. The anti-LGBTQ+ employee was reportedly emboldened to obtain Lucas birth name, deadname him, and reveal his birth name to co-workers without his consent when the chains general manager took no action after Lucas and his three co-workers reported the initial harassment. 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 Lucas and his colleagues again reported the anti-LGBTQ+ co-workers escalating offensive conduct to their general manager. Instead of investigating their complaint, the EEOC says, Culvers fired Lucas and his three co-workers a day after they lodged their second complaint.In its lawsuit, the EEOC charges that the five entities that operate Culvers locations in Michigan violated Lucas and his fellow employees rights under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act by discriminating against Lucas as a transgender man and by retaliating against all four fired employees for complaining about the alleged anti-trans harassment.Employers must protect all employees, including transgender employees, from sex-based harassment at work, Omar Weaver, assistant regional attorney in the EEOCs Detroit office, said in a statement. When employees complain of harassment, whether directed at them or witnessed by them, employers cannot fire those employees because of their complaints. The suit was filed late last month after the EEOC first attempted to reach a pre-litigation settlement through its administrative conciliation process, according to the press release.As them notes, the lawsuit follows new guidance issued by the EEOC earlier this year stating that employers who consistently misgender employees or deny them access to sex-segregated facilities, like bathrooms, that align with their gender identity can be charged with workplace harassment.In January, the EEOC settled a lawsuit against a New York pizzeria which it alleged had consistently subjected an employee to anti-trans harassment, forcing him to resign. As part of the settlement, T.C. Wheelers Bar & Pizzeria agreed to pay the transgender former employee $25,000, and to require all owners and employees to undergo training on federal anti-discrimination employment laws.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Arad Winwin, a 34-year-old model and content creator best known for his work as a gay adult film star, is currently under fire for sharing social media posts in support of Donald Trump and in opposition to Kamala Harris both leading up to the 2024 presidential election and after Trump was declared president-elect.If you're unfamiliar, Winwin has been an incredibly successful and massively popular gay adult film star for many years. According to Porn Base Central, he starred in gay porn videos from platforms and studios such as CockyBoys, Ducati Porn, Falcon Studios, Gay Room, Hot House, Lucas Entertainment, Male Access, Man Royale, Men.com, Naked Sword, Nasty Daddy, Next Door Studios, Kink.com, and Raw Alpha Males. Winwin was also nominated for a couple of GayVN Awards in 2018, 2021, and 2022 as outlined on AVN.com.In January 2017, Cocktails & Cocktalk published an interview with Winwin titled, "This hunky Iranian soldier escaped his country on foot and now works as an underwear model."Winwin, who was then working as a "Trophy Boy" jockstrap model for the underwear company Andrew Christian, told the LGBTQ+ blog that he "went AWOL [absent without leave] during duty fighting for Iran." He also explained that he left the Iranian military service at 22 years of age and eventually immigrated into the U.S., which is where he still resides.Winwin has a massive social media presence that, as of this writing, includes 507,000 followers on Instagram, 284,000 on X/Twitter, and an active OnlyFans page charging $19.99 per month for a subscription. Winwin also has a TikTok account with 3.4 million likes and 295,000 followers, but the profile currently doesn't display any content.However, things took a turn when some fans and followers caught wind of certain posts that Winwin had been sharing on social media.On November 6, 2024, Winwin shared a Instagram post that included an image originated by @dailypatriotreport. Winwin wrote in the caption:"All the best and MEGA CONGRATULATIONS TO our president MR @realdonaldtrump. Make America great and affordable and safe AGAIN. LOVE IS LOVE. We all together in this."The non-embeddable Instagram post, which can be seen below, received a flood of mostly negative comments.One user wrote, "(1) gay (2) immigrant (3) porn star, man! You're the holy trinity of the kinda people Trump insults and Republican supporters hunt for." Another commented, "Lmao you'd be the first deported."A fellow adult film star Lucas Dell wrote, "Disgusting and disappointing." Another response reads, "You live off the gay community. Yet you support a president who will only do harm to the LGBTQ community. How does that make sense?" Out reached out to Arad Winwin for comment. The adult film star promptly replied over the course of several DMs explaining his reasons behind this political stance, as well as how he feels about the negative comments he has received. (For communication purposes, Out reacted with a thumbs-up emoji to every DM sent by Winwin upon receiving and reading each message.)Out: Would you like to comment on why support Trump, and/or share an argument/reason behind that political stance you've been sharing in public on social media?Out: You're also an immigrant who came here as a young adult, and Trump pushed many "mass deportation" messages during his campaign and rallies. Do you have any comment regarding that topic?Out: Do you think Trump will be a better president than Kamala Harris for the LGBTQ+ community?Winwin's subsequent DMs repeated most of the points he had already made in earlier DMs shared throughout this article. Of note, Winwin's additional messages revealed that "I don't do any work (gay work) last 3 years." He also talked about currently living in the U.S. but feeling uncomfortable about revealing which city he resides in, prompting Out to exclude that information.Overall, Winwin also reaffirmed his belief that he doesn't have to "think like the LGBTQ+ community" simply because he is gay. He also made several mentions regarding his right to freedom of speech.Even though Winwin mostly discussed the comments under his Instagram grid post congratulating Trump, it's worth noting that Winwin has been sharing various Instagram stories in support of Donald Trump and criticizing individuals such as Kamala Harris, Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Joe Biden in the last few months many of which have been obtained by Out.According to data from Social Blade, Arad Winwin has lost 14,100 followers on Instagram between October 26 and November 8. On Thursday, November 7 alone, 11,708 users unfollowed Winwin on Instagram.This story is still developing

The reactionary conservative Christian scolds of One Million Moms (OMM) are once again targeting jewelry brand Pandora for a completely innocuous ad.The anti-LGBTQ+ organization recently posted its latest petition, asking supporters to sign if they agree that the ad, released by Pandora as part of the brands Be Love campaign, is inappropriate. Related Conservative Christians are outraged at Pandora jewelry ad for showing happy lesbian couple They even have a petition that says the ad offends them and offends many other conservative consumers. Jewelry company Pandora, through its liberal advertising choices, is attempting to normalize the LGBTQ lifestyle, the October 30 petition reads. A recent Pandora commercial, Radiate it. Initiate it. Accept it. Expect it. Be love., includes a heterosexual couple, sisters, and a lesbian couple hugging, singing, and embracing one another. 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 While One Million Moms describes the ad as recent, it was in fact released all the way back in February to coincide with Valentines Day. Clocking in at less than two minutes, the spot features singers Chloe and Halle Bailey singing a cover of the Bee Gees 1967 hit To Love Somebody. Footage of the sisters singing in an open field is intercut with scenes of models Sasha Pivovarova, Aviana McClish, Thara, Jocelyn Corona, and Colin Alexander. McClish and Alexander, who are a couple in real life, are the only two seen kissing, though Corona is shown stroking the face of another female presenting model with close cropped pink hair. The ad is notably less LGBTQ+-forward than the last Pandora spot that had One Millions Moms clutching their pearls. That one, released in October 2023, included a lesbian couple embracing and, in a wide shot, kissing. (It only took OMM four months to launch a petition against the previous ad, compared to the over eight months it took them to notice that the February Be Love commercial was supposedly corrupting their children).But judging by OMMs petition, youd think the Be Love spot featured a full-on sapphic festival. The group cited scripture and described the ads content as sexual perversion.Pandora blatantly throws homosexuality in the viewers face with the lesbian couple, the petition reads. Pandora should avoid aiming to please a small percentage of consumers while pushing away conservative customers; however, it seems that the company wants to clarify its stand on this controversial topic instead of remaining neutral in the culture war. OMM notes that while it is concerned that the ad pushes the LGBTQ agenda, they are particularly concerned that this commercial is airing when children are likely to be watching.The petition, which has garnered over 11,000 signatures, asks supporters to send the message to Pandora that they are not buying into the brands supposed social agenda that pushes the LGBTQ lifestyle, and that they will not support the brand while it airs commercials featuring same-sex couples.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Congregates of a Michigan Catholic church are outraged that their long-time music director was dismissed after church leaders discovered that he married his same-sex partner four years ago.Fred Szczepanski affectionately known as Mr. Fred to fellow parishioners served as the music director at Traverse Citys St. Francis Catholic Church for 35 years before he was abruptly fired last month. Related Pope Francis Vatican chat with LGBTQ+ Catholics shows his acceptance, group says Pope Franciss record is a bit mixed when it comes to LGBTQ+ acceptance. Szczepanski told the Traverse City Record-Eagle that parish administrator Rev. Michael Lingaur informed him on October 18 that church leadership had received a letter from an unnamed person notifying them that Szczepanski had married his long-time partner in Nevada in 2020. 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 Szczepanski says he confirmed that he and his husband Bill Thompson were married. Lingaur not only fired Szczepanski, who had already announced his upcoming retirement, but reportedly told him he could no longer take communion during mass at St. Francis.Pastoral council member Dave Martin told the Traverse City Record-Eagle that he received the letter about Szczepanskis marriage. He didnt name the sender, but told the Traverse City Record-Eagle that the sender had a seasonal connection to the church and that the letter had an out-of-state postmark.In a statement, the Diocese of Gaylord said that it takes employee privacy very seriously and declined to disclose details about individual personnel matters.Renee Shimmel, a spokesperson for the diocese, told local outlet The Ticker that the bishop and diocesan HR director provide guidance and assistance in such matters, but ultimately leave decisions up to individual parishes.Friends say Szczepanski told them that Bishop Jeffrey Walsh refused to get involved, even after one of St. Franciss deacons complained about Szczepanskis dismissal.St. Francis parishioners have staged protests in recent weeks, picketing outside the church during October 27 services with signs reading Love Not Hate, God Includes, Not Excludes, and Fired Not Retired, the Traverse City Record-Eagle reported. Members of the choir also staged their own silent protest during a recent mass, wearing black and refusing to sing. You can tell by the reaction of the choir, were not taking it lying down, choir member and Cantor Robert DeGabriele told the paper.He got fired because hes gay, fellow choir member Bob Holden said. Hes extremely talented, hes perfect on the piano, he has perfect pitch and because of him, I look forward to going to church every week. Im divorced. Do I get thrown out next?Others pointed out the dioceses hypocrisy in firing Szczepanski, while the churchs previous leader, Rev. Don Geyman, was merely transferred to another parish after being credibly accused of sexual misconduct. Its despicable what has happened and how it has happened, choir member Sherry Koenig said. Mr. Fred is kind, honorable and caring.Liz Yarch told The Ticker that it was well known that Szczepanski is gay, and that she believes Lingaur, who was only installed as Geymans replacement in July, is entirely responsible for his dismissal.Fred was fired for his personal life and I find that cruel, Yarch told the Traverse City Record-Eagle.While Szczepanski has not commented on whether he plans to take legal action, according to the paper, a GoFundMe campaign launched to raise money to cover his insurance costs and legal fees has raised nearly $52,000.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

On Tuesday, D.C. police released photos of some of the suspects identified in a brutal hate crime attack.Sebastian Thomas Robles Lascarro was attacked by 10 to 15 young men and women in a McDonalds on October 27. The 22-year-old Colombian model and his husband were in the fast-food restaurant at about 1 am after a night out with friends at two local gay clubs when the incident occurred. Related Gay man hospitalized after mob attacks him in McDonalds while no one helped No one in the restaurant intervened. No one screamed stop. Police said the photos were obtained from nearby surveillance cameras. Investigators are waiting on a request for video recordings from the McDonalds franchise, as well. 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 Anyone who can identify these suspects or who has knowledge of this incident should take no action but call police at 202-727-9099, said a statement from DC Metro Police, who are offering a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest in the case.Lascarros spouse, Stuart West, said the incident started when a young woman screamed at his husband to watch where the f*ck he was goingwhen he walked by her at a self-service line.West said Lascarro tried to leave the restaurant to avoid a conflict when the group of individuals believed to be the womans friends blocked the restaurant doors, called him a f**got, and demanded he apologize. When Lascarro refused, they attacked him, West said. Five to 10 individuals started just punching him all over his face, all over his body, West told WTTG News. No one in the restaurant intervened; no one screamed stop.Lascarro was injured and bleeding on the sidewalk when the mob threw food, trash, and drinks at him, according to a police report. Two passers-by eventually contacted emergency medical services to assist him.At Howard University Hospital, Lascarro was treated for a busted lip, scrapes, and bruises. He was placed in a neck brace and photos show him with bruises and blood on his face. This horrific hate crime left him hospitalized overnight, facing serious physical injuries and emotional trauma, West said.Following a news conference addressing security in the capital ahead of Tuesdays election, D.C. police chief Pamela Smith told the Washington Blade, Weve taken the time to review the body-worn camera footage from the officer who conducted the investigation with the victim of that particular crime, and during that interview there was nothing that was said from the victim that there were any anti-gay or gay or racial slurs being shared with him.We do recognize that often times when individuals go through a significant amount of trauma, they may forget details of what may have occurred, Smith said. But when we were made aware of the fact that there were some homophobic comments being made, we sent out an investigator, a detective, to do that investigation.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

The Justice Minister in Mali announced Thursday that the West African nation is moving forward with a law to outlaw homosexuality.The countrys ruling National Transitional Council adopted the measure by a nearly unanimous vote last week.The bill still needs approval from the countrys military leaders,according to Agence France-Presse. Related A U.S. activist allegedly accepted $300K from Russia to push anti-gay laws in Africa Family Watch International of Arizona was complicit in the funding. The vote was 131 in favor and 1 against. 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 There are now provisions prohibiting homosexuality in Mali, and that anyone engaging in this practice or promoting or condoning it will be prosecuted, the Malian Minister of Justice Mamadou Kassogue announced last week. #AESinfo | #Mali Le Mali dit non la dgradation des murs : L'homosexualit interditeUne dcision attendue par de nombreux Maliens, l'tat a adopt une nouvelle loi criminalisant l'homosexualit et interdisant toute forme de promotion ou d'apologie de cette pratique.Le pic.twitter.com/MlUWzlOpBH AES INFO (@AESinfos) November 1, 2024The new law makes good on a promise by the government in 2022 when Kassogue declared, Homosexuality is an unnatural relationship. There are no specific [laws against it at present in Mali]. We are going to pass laws to prohibit it in our country.In December, Kassogue, whose full title is Minister of Justice and Human Rights, signed a United Nations pledge committing Mali to promote and protect human rights. Malis ruling junta came to power three years ago in a coup.Any law singling out sexual minorities would be in violation of the African Charter on Human Rights, said Alice Nkom, a prominent attorney and LGBTQ+ rights defender in Cameroon.A resolution passed in 2014 by the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights compels signatories to protect citizens from violence and other human rights violations on the basis of real or assumed sexual identity or orientation, she said.Details and proposed punishments in the new penal code have yet to be announced.In neighboring Burkina Faso, also ruled by a military junta, the Transitional Legislative Assembly will meet soon to approve similar sanctions criminalizing homosexual behavior.Last year, Burkina Fasos High Council of Communication, which regulates the media, issued a ban on the broadcasting of television channels promoting homosexuality. Both Mali and Burkina Faso are majority Muslim.At least 30 countries in Africa criminalize homosexuality, either based on colonial-era laws imposed by the British and other European nations or through new laws adopted in a wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation passed in the last several years.Ugandas Kill the Gays law, signed in 2023, is among the most notorious, imposing a death sentence for the crime of aggravated homosexuality in the East African nation. Neighboring Ghana adopted similar legislation this year. In July, Congos Public Prosecutor ordered regional prosecutors to initiate proceedings against the perpetrators of deviant practices of a sexual and homosexual nature, as well as the perpetrators of noise pollution, despite the country having no prohibitions of same-sex acts in current law.Congo, Uganda and Ghana are all majority Christian nations.Malis Justice Minister summed up the reasoning of disparate African countries uniting in opposition to homosexuality when he said recently, We will not accept our customs and values being violated by people from elsewhere.While anti-LGBTQ+ laws are on the rise across Africa, several countries have decriminalized homosexuality since 2012, including Gabon, Mauritius, Angola, Lesotho, Equatorial Guinea, Sao Tome and Principe, Seychelles, Botswana, and Mozambique. Namibias High Court struck down that nations anti-sodomy law in June.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

A same-sex couple in Washington state is calling for a boycott of a local restaurant that refused to cater their wedding citing anti-LGBTQ+ Christian beliefs.Rayah Calkins and Lillian Glover told local NBC affiliate KING-TV that they spent a month communicating via social media with Centralia, Washington, eatery JJs To Go about catering their January wedding. But it was only when they met in person that the restaurants owner, Jessica Britton, realized that they were a lesbian couple. Related Supreme Court rules in favor of anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination in Christian web designer case Split along party lines, the Supreme Courts conservative majority sided with a Christian web designer who doesnt want to make sites for LGBTQ+ people. She kind of put her hands up to her face and said, Im really sorry, were not going to be able to cater your wedding, Calkins recalled. Telling you after they visually see you two together, that thats not something they can move forward with was its something you just cant really comprehend in the moment. 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 Calkins described the interaction as one of the hardest moments weve ever had to encounter in our lives.Britton, meanwhile, cited her Christian faith as the reason for the decision in an interview with KING-TV. We love them. Jesus loves them. They are human just like us, she said. But, the part of a wedding being a religious ceremony and a religious act between a man and a woman, means that Calkins and Glovers nuptials go against my beliefs and my faith and I cannot participate, she said.The JJs owner claimed shes received continuous threats against her family since word of the situation has spread. I have had hundreds of people tell me it would be better if I wasnt alive, she said.Calkins and Glover, however, are calling only for peaceful protests against the restaurant.Rayah Calkins and Lillian Glover | Screenshot/KING-TV I dont want anyone to violently react to them in any way, Calkin said. No violent protests, peaceful only. I dont want any threats made to them or their family or their employees.The couple said they plan on taking legal action. In 2021, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the Washington State Supreme Courts ruling that a Richland florist had violated the states anti-discrimination law when it refused to provide flowers for a gay couples 2013 wedding, citing religious beliefs.However, with its 2023 decision in 303Creative LLC v. Elenis, the courts new conservative supermajority ruled that businesses cannot be compelled under state anti-discrimination laws to provide creative work to LGBTQ+ people that conflicts with their beliefs. Its not clear if catering meets this definition.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Donald Trump can say and do things that basically no one else on the planet can get away with. For reasons that will be analyzed for years to come, consequences seem to evade him at every turn. Instead, he receives endless rewards for his cruelty. Journalist McKay Coppins has identified this as the most insidious legacy of the Trump era. In an op-ed for The Atlantic, Coppoins says Trump has thoroughly desensitized voters to behavior that, in another era, they would have deemed disqualifying in a president. Related Dem chair apologizes after shameful comments blaming trans people for Harris loss Theres certain things that we just go too far on, that a big bulk of our population does not support. The national bar for outrage keeps rising, Coppins writes. The ability to be shocked has dwindled. 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 Coppins also acknowledges that Donald Trump is far from the first president to abuse power or infuse cynicism into the American people about our leaders. But when it comes to lowering our collective expectations of presidential behavior, Trump is a singular figure, he said, to the point where we all get bored reading about the mans many indiscretions. Trumps apologists might argue that his success is a symptom, not the cause, of the countrys coarsened character, Coppins continued, but he pointed out that voters continue to rebuke others who try to act similarly. In North Carolina, for example, voters elected Trump but also resoundingly rejected the Republican candidate for governor, Mark Robinson a Trump-endorsed anti-LGBTQ+ politician whoallegedly called himself a Black Nazi and a perv for adult films featuring transgender actors. In any case, Coppins continued, the fact remains that Trumps brazenness damages the political culture. Every time he crosses a new line, he makes it that much easier for the next guy to do so.Nearly a decade into the Trump era, too many Americans have internalized the idea that expecting our political leaders to be good people is quaint and foolish. But this savvier-than-thou attitude only empowers Trump and his mimics to act with impunity.Is it possible to resensitize an electorate to scandal and cruelty? Coppins asked. I dont know. Maybe we start by trying to remember how we felt when all of this was still new. He also reminded us that some people today are too young to even remember Trumps first time running for president. Some members of Gen Z, for example, have only recently learned about the infamous Access Hollywood tape in which Trump bragged about being able to sexually assault women and are utterly shocked. So perhaps, Coppins said, a less cynical age may dawn again. Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Streaming platform Mubi has canceled a four-day film festival in Istanbul to protest the Turkish citys banning of the new Luca Guadagnino-directed film Queer.Mubi acquired international distribution right for Queer earlier this year, as Deadline noted, and had planned to screen the film as part of its Mubi Fest Istanbul 2024. But, according to a post on the platforms Turkish Instagram account, organizers learned hours before the festivals November 7 opening that the film had been banned. Related Drew Starkey cast as Daniel Craigs love interest in Luca Guadagninos Queer The film is based on gay author William S. Burroughss 1985 novel. The decision states that the movie is banned because it contains provocative content that would endanger the peace of the society and that the ban would be implemented for security reasons, the post reads, according to Deadline. 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 Out director Guadagninos film is an adaptation of out author William S. Burroughss 1985 novella about recovering heroin addict Lee, a queer American expat living in 1950s Mexico City. The film stars Daniel Craig as Lee and Outer Banks Drew Starkey as the much younger Allerton, a discharged American Navy serviceman with whom Craigs character becomes obsessed.The film is set for a limited U.S. release on November 27, and has already garnered positive reviews from critics since its world premiere at this years Venice International Film Festival.We believe this ban is an intervention that restricts art and freedom of expression, Mubis post continues. This ban takes not just one movie away but also the meaning and purpose of the entire festival. Mubi wants to take the stance that our audience expects from us and we regret to inform you that we have taken the decision to cancel the entire Mubi Fest Istanbul.The post also noted that the festival, which was set to run through November 10, had already sold out after months of preparation and a successful 2023 run.This is not the first time Turkish censorship has led to the cancelation of a film festival in recent years. Organizers were forced to cancel the 2023 Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival amid controversy over a documentary that President Recep Tayyip Erdogan characterized as propaganda that undermines our national sovereignty.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

In a brazen betrayal of her colleagues and the transgender clients they were supporting, Dominique Morgan, the former leader of the Brooklyn-based Black trans advocacy group The Okra Project, allegedly stole nearly $100,000 from a bail fund she created to help trans defendants facing jail time, the Brooklyn district attorney says.Morgan has been charged with one count of second-degree grand larceny and 23 counts of first-degree falsifying business records for allegedly faking evidence of non-existent Black trans women receiving the groups help. Related City puts $10,000 bounty of trans peoples heads if they use a public restroom This is the first time that a city is letting strangers sue trans people for using the bathroom. Morgan was already earning a salary of more than $200,000 a year as executive director of Okra Project, a news release from DA Eric Gonzalezs office detailed. 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 Morgans total compensation in 2022 was $328,000, according to anOkra Project tax filing. The same year, she was named one of the grand marshals of the New York City Pride Parade. Earlier in her tenure, Morgan announced the addition of the bail initiative to the groups core mission of helping the groups predominantly Black trans female clients with food, housing, transportation, and mental health needs.No such initiative was ever started, prosecutors say.Instead, Morgan allegedly funneled $99,000 to her own bank account to pay for her Mercedes-Benz car payments, clothing, meals, and a $19,000 closet renovation from the upscale home renovation service California Closets.She then submitted purported bail receipts for 23 individuals who she said were arrested in Georgia and Nebraska, according to the DA. An internal Okra audit revealed that no matching arrest records existed. The Okra Project terminated Morgans employment shortly thereafter.Morgan was arrested this week and released without bail. If convicted, she could receive five to 15 years in prison for the grand larceny charge, Gonzalez wrote. She was scheduled to appear in court again in December.Morgan previously worked as the executive director of prison abolition nonprofit Black & Pink and has served as program director forBorealis Philanthropys Fund for Trans Generationssince December 2022.Borealis Philanthropy hasnt commented on the Brooklyn DAs indictment. Last year, the Nebraska native had a street in Omaha named after her, the first formerly incarcerated person in the state and the first Black trans woman in the U.S. to receive a similar honor. As a youth, Morgan was incarcerated for 10 years, including 18 months spent in solitary confinement.For every queer and trans person who walks down Dominique Morgan Street, she told The Journal-Constitution at the time, they will know that no matter where their story began, they will get to determine where their story ends.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

LGBTQ+ ally Ruben Gallego has seemingly won his race against anti-LGBTQ+ Republican Kari Lake for Arizonas U.S. Senate seat. He won 50% of the vote, beating Lake by 66,305 votes with 93% of all voting precincts reporting as of Monday morning, Decision Desk HQ reported. He has not yet made a statement commenting on his projected victory.As such, Gallego will win the Senate seat that will soon be vacated by outgoing bisexual Independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema. Sinema a controversial figure in the Senate, often frustrating Democratic priorities left the Democratic party in late 2022, after earning enmity from other Arizona Democrats for not helping others get reelected that year. She announced her retirement from the Senate in early March. Related Independents may reshape Arizonas future. LGBTQ+ voters arent convinced. With 33% of Arizonas voters registered as Independents, the election is anything but a sealed deal. Gallego has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights. In 2015, Rep. Gallegosigned on as an original co-sponsorof theEquality Act, a comprehensive federal anti-discrimination bill that would add sexual orientation and gender identity to pre-existing anti-discrimination laws. He voted in favor ofthe Respect for Marriage Act, which provides federal protections for same-sex and interracial marriages. 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 In February 2022, Gallego co-signeda letter from the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucusopposing Floridas Parental Rights in Educationlaw, also known as the Dont Say Gay bill, which forbids LGBTQ+ instruction in the states public schools. While serving as a Marine, he was a member of Voices of Honor, a group of military members that spoke out against Dont Ask, Dont Tell (DADT), the national ban on out gay and bisexual military service members.Lake, on the other hand, is a former local news anchor and failed 2022 candidate for Arizona governor who has repeatedly claimed that she and former President Donald Trump lost their respective elections due to an voter fraud that was never successfully proven in courts.Lake has expressed anti-LGBTQ+ views and made derogatory comments about the LGBTQ+ community. During her 2022 campaign, she appeared in an ad witha pastor who called LGBTQ+ people child molesters. Lake has previously voiced support for anti-trans policies including sports and bathroom bans. She has also written posts against exposing kids to drag queens and woke teachers. A local drag queen called her a hypocrite becauseshe once took her child to see him perform in drag.In February 2022, Lake saidshe would not support legislationexpanding or protecting LGBTQ+ state civil rights protections.As of Monday morning, Republicans have won 53 of the U.S. Senates 100 seats Democrats have won 46 seats and two were won by other politically affiliated candidates.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Thousand of New Yorkers gathered over the weekend for the Protect Our Futures March to protest Donald Trumps hateful agenda. Protestors chanted in favor of LGBTQ+ inclusion, womens rights, and protections for immigrants values Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) seems to define as anti-American. In addition to claiming the protestors were funded, presumably by the Democratic party, Greene also claimed their actions signified a hatred for the country. Related Has Donald Trump forever desensitized America to cruelty? Every time he crosses a new line, he makes it that much easier for the next guy to do so. They are the same organizers of every Democrat protest movement & cant even come up with new chant rhythms, Greene ranted on X. They are funded. They hate America. And real everyday Americans do not support their radical hateful causes. Trump won the popular vote and election BIGLY! Get over it. 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 They are the same organizers of every Democrat protest movement & cant even come up with new chant rhythms.They are funded. They hate America. And real everyday Americans do not support their radical hateful causes.Trump won the popular vote and election BIGLY!Get over it. https://t.co/qhB4W2UjOB Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) November 9, 2024Peaceful protest, of course, has long been the backbone of American politics, and those who engage in it are often seen as caring about the country enough to fight for it. Yet Greene who continues to stand with a man who recently called America a garbage can thinks people fighting for inclusion and equality do not represent American values. The march occurred on Saturday in Columbus Circle outside the Trump International Hotel & Tower. Protestors carried signs that said, We wont back down and We will fight his hate. One group also carried a large trans flag.Chants included, Racist, sexist, anti-gay, Donald Trump go away!; as well as, No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here. Greene has been gloating across America since Donald Trump won the election, bragging that her extremist views are now considered mainstream and expressing joy over plans to pardon January 6 protestors and end the fight against climate change. Im out in the streets to #ProtectOurFutures against the fascist president-Elect Trump before he is even re-seated, alongside thousands of NYers. pic.twitter.com/OlpFUM1Mo0 Jawanza James Williams | He, Him| (@Jawanza) November 9, 2024 Great march, strong & safe, 5000 people in NYC. We wont back down. #ProtectOurFutures pic.twitter.com/MQygLB4Niv Michael Kink (@mkink) November 10, 2024I was so honored to lead thousands of New Yorkers through the Assata Chant as we mounted our first response to the returning fascist administration. #ProtectOurFutures pic.twitter.com/Qd4g6KpnvI Jawanza James Williams | He, Him| (@Jawanza) November 9, 2024TRANS PEOPLE ARE HOLY.#ProtectOurFutures pic.twitter.com/J3wdMQ6a5b Jawanza James Williams | He, Him| (@Jawanza) November 9, 2024Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Following Donald Trumps landslide victory in the 2024 presidential election, many people may be looking to his campaign speeches to understand his position on major issues such as LGBTQ rights.The Republican Partys electoral promises in this area include cutting existing federal funding for gender-affirming care and restricting transgender students participation in sports.Yet as a legal scholar who has written extensively on the history of LGBTQ rights, I have seen that the clearest indication of how a politician will act once in office is not what they promise on the campaign trail. Instead, it is what they have done in the past.Lets examine the records of Trump and the vice president-elect, U.S. Sen. JD Vance of Ohio.Trump restricted some LGBTQ rightsTrump and Vance are both relatively new to politics, so their records on LGBTQ rights issues are slim. That said, they have both done enough to qualify them as opponents of LGBTQ rights.Trump enacted two policies restricting LGBTQ rights early in his one term in office. The first was his 2017 executive order Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty, which reinforced that federal law must respect conscience-based objections to comply with the First Amendment. This order indirectly imperiled LGBTQ rights because many LGBTQ rights battles are fought over whether conservative Christian businesses run afoul of anti-discrimination laws when they refuse to serve same-sex couples.A few months later, Trump banned transgender individuals from serving in the U.S. armed forces. He ultimately revoked the directive, implementing instead a new policy that allowed existing transgender soldiers to remain in the military but barred new transgender recruits from enlisting.Trumps judicial appointments during his first term also indirectly affect LGBTQ rights. Of the 234 judges he appointed to the bench between 2017 and 2020, 40% had a demonstrable record of anti-LGBTQ bias, according to a January 2021 analysis by the legal advocacy group Lambda Legal.All these judges, including the three conservative justices Trump added to the U.S. Supreme Court, have lifetime appointments.Vance has opposed trans rightsVance, a one-term senator, has spent much of his short time in office trying to roll back the rights of transgender Americans.Between 2023 and 2024, Vance introduced or sponsored five bills opposing trans rights. One seeks to restrict gender-affirming care for minors by imposing criminal sanctions on doctors who perform such surgeries; another aims to do the same by exposing physicians to civil liability for either prescribing gender affirming hormones or performing surgeries.JD Vance has made rolling back the rights of transgender Americans a centerpiece of his short congressional career. Christian Monterrosa/AFP via Getty ImagesAnother Vance bill would expand health care workers ability to make conscience-based objections to transgender rights. One more would amend Title IX, which prohibits discrimination based on sex in education, to limit transgender student participation in athletics.Vance has also tried to pass legislation that would stop the Department of State from issuing passports with an unspecified X gender designation, a policy that launched in 2021. Gender-neutral passports allow transgender, intersex and nonbinary individuals to carry identity documents that reflect their gender identity and avoid what can be significant problems getting through airport security with misgendered IDs.Congress has not voted on any of these proposals. That may change in the next Congress, when Republicans will control the Senate.Anti-trans campaign pledgesThe records of Trump and Vance strongly suggest that they will work to fulfill their campaign pledges to roll back LGBTQ rights, especially transgender rights.At rallies, Trump regularly made false claims like, Your kid goes to school and comes home a few days later with an operation, changing their sex. Vance made similarly untrue allegations, chief among them that teenagers claim to be transgender to be more competitive in college admissions.Trump promised that if he was elected he would cut federal funds for public schools that push gender ideology and keep men out of womens sports. He also pledged to limit access to gender affirming care for transgender youth.On this topic, at least, I trust that the candidates mean what they say.Will same-sex marriage survive a second Trump term?Notably, neither politician seems focused on ending marriage equality.Indeed, early in the race, Trump urged the Republican Party to soften its opposition to same-sex marriage in its policy platform. That move was likely linked to the fact that, although many social conservatives oppose marriage equality, about two-thirds of Americans support marriage equality.It is possible that the Supreme Court, with its Trump-appointed conservative majority, could overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the 2015 decision that declared same-sex marriage bans unconstitutional. Justice Clarence Thomas has signaled he is open to revisiting the marriage rights case, including in his concurrence to the 2021 ruling that ended federal abortion protection in the U.S., Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization.Currently, there are no cases pending in lower courts that directly challenge Obergefell. Any case initiated soon could make its way to the Supreme Court in a few years.Over two dozen states still have same-sex marriage bans on the books. They have been unenforceable since 2015, but if the court were to overturn Obergefell, many would come back into effect.This story has been updated to reflect the results of the 2024 election. It was originally published on Oct. 24, 2024.Marie-Amelie George, Associate Professor of Law, Wake Forest UniversityThis article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.The post LGBTQ+ rights: Where Trump and Vancestand appeared first on News Is Out.

The U.S. Supreme Court is scheduled to hear oral argument on Dec. 4 in a landmark case regarding a Tennessee law banning health care for transgender youth. The case, U.S. v. Skrmetti, challenges Tennessees law banning health care such as hormone therapy and puberty-pausing medications for transgender youth under 18, while the same treatments remain [...]The post Fact Sheet: Landmark Supreme Court Case Challenging Tennessee Transgender Health Care Ban first appeared on GLAAD.

One of my favorite singer/songwriters is Joni Mitchell, and one of her most poignant of all her songs is Big Yellow Taxi with the lyrics: Dont it always seem to go / that you dont know what youve got til its gone?Yes, I believe this is true. I have been thinking of Jonis words today, the day following the 2024 presidential election in which Donald J. Trump was declared the winner for the second time in eight years. And I asked myself, what type of nation do I wish to live in? Related Has Donald Trump forever desensitized America to cruelty? Every time he crosses a new line, he makes it that much easier for the next guy to do so. I have always been aware of my political philosophy, and what I desire for my country, so I attempted to write this down: Dive deeper every day Join our newsletter for thought-provoking commentary that goes beyond the surface of LGBTQ+ issues Subscribe to our Newsletter today I wish to live in a country that accepts the huddled masses yearning to breathe free, embraces people from other lands, and makes dreams come true for beautiful dreamers.I wish to live in a country that honestly and thoroughly tackles its foundational and deeply entrenched racist past and its continuing legacy.I wish to live in a country as expressed by the great Rev. Doctor Martin Luther King Jr.,where all people will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.I wish to live in a country that ranks lowest in the world for incarcerations, where justice is doled out equally, equitably, and humanely regardless of background and social identities.I wish to live in a country where all people of all sexes and genders have and maintain the unrestricted and unquestionable right to control their own bodies and are guaranteed their bodily autonomy.I wish to live in a country where quality affordable healthcare is guaranteed as a human right.I wish to live in a country that promotes the basic tenet that love is love and affirms the many relationship options. I wish to live in a country that burns tattered gender scripts while cherishing everyones direction in their own gender expressions.I wish to live in a country where all political parties and individual politicians care more about obediently serving and governing their country rather than gaining and maintaining power and control over others and by making financial profits.I wish to live in a country that encourages and empowers the voices and civic engagement of young people and admires and respects our elders who have and are still contributing to the vitality of the country. I wish to live in a country that values people who are differently abled in a society continually creating and offering accommodations they may require to live as independently as possible and to make their own decisions affecting their lives.I wish to live in a country that remains open to the rest of the world and understands the interconnectedness of the international human village.I wish to live in a country that comes to the aid of its allies and other countries and districts large and small around the world when its borders and sovereignty are threatened from within and without and when militarily more powerful nations invade, subjugate, and create humanitarian crises.I wish to live in a country that establishes fair and equitable priorities to close the wage and wealth gap while meeting the urgent needs of the many. I wish to live in a country that prizes science while cleaning our environment, reducing our dependence on fossil fuels, and investing at significantly higher levels in renewable clean and sustainable energy sources and in agricultural methods that eliminate greenhouse gases.I wish to live in a country where the chief executive demonstrates grace, peace, intelligence, and competence from the enormous presidential megaphone to serve as a positive role model to We the People.I wish to live in a country that respects activists asserting their constitutional rights of assembly and redressing grievances.I wish to live in a country with a true and insurmountable wall separating religion from the government where no religious doctrine or tenet can ever be used as the basis for creating laws and standards for how one lives. I wish to live in a country that ensures the equal protection of its laws regardless of who one is or where one comes from.I wish to live in a country where leaders value our free press as the fourth estate and as one of the many peoples defenders of our democratic principles and institutions.I wish to live in a country that values safety and security within our national community by eliminating current legal sales and distribution of firearms as if they were toys and candy. I wish to live in a country where there is always a safety net to catch and uplift those in need.I wish to live in a country that equitably funds public education independent of zip codes, values and upgrades the status and salary of the heroes within the noble teaching profession, and engages students in critical thought and consciousness to help in the transformation and liberation of themselves and their communities, free from censorship and the banning of curricular materials.I wish to live in a country that gives due priority to the prevention of pandemics and the ravages of monumental health crises by mobilizing on a federal level to save the lives of people.I wish to live in a country where the leaders remain grounded in the needs of the people and refrain from emulating authoritarian dictatorial regimes around the globe. I wish to live in a country that cares for and truly respects other species on our planet.Well, maybe, just maybe this will someday be that country in which I live, where we join together to work and vote to steer our country on a path toward freedom and justice for all, to work in solving the problems that have gotten us to this point of rupture, and to turn the tide in a spirit of dialogue and goodwill.Yes, I wish to live in a country where people truly desire to form a more perfect union and world. It is not too late!Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Democrats are speaking out for transgender rights in the wake of party infighting over whether support for the trans community lost Kamala Harris the presidency. Even though Harris barely talked about trans rights during her campaign to the point where several trans activists were frustrated at her silence on trans issues some Democrats still believe the partys willingness to pander to progressive identity groups like trans people led it to be out of touch with voters actual concerns. Related Two House Democrats say they oppose trans athletes competing against girls & women They made their statements after Republicans rad anti-trans political ads against several Democratic candidates. But many elected officials refuse to throw trans people under the bus and have been voicing solidarity with the community. 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 Leave trans kids alone, wrote lesbian Congresswoman Becca Balint (D-VT) on Saturday. Leave trans kids alone. Rep. Becca Balint (@RepBeccaB) November 9, 2024Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) declared she will always stand with trans people and the entire LGBTQ+ community.This Congresswoman sees you and loves you, she said, reminding her followers that this election cycle wasnt the first time we saw the trans community scapegoated and dehumanized. This election cycle wasnt the first time we saw the trans community scapegoated and dehumanized, but know this: I will always stand with trans people and the entire LGBTQ+ community.This Congresswoman sees you and loves you. Ayanna Pressley (@AyannaPressley) November 11, 2024Trans activist and journalist Erin Reed responded to Pressley, thanking her. Democrats who think the right answer to a $215 million ad campaign demonizing transgender people is to jump to the Republican side are not leading with Democratic values, and it will weigh them down for years to come, Reed warned. In another post responding to Pressley, Reed cautioned that Democrats who decide to stop supporting trans rights will wear that decision like an albatross around their neck, just like the old anti-gay dems, who she said had to run from their anti-marriage equality votes for decades. Old enough to remember Democrats making votes against gay marriage and they had to run from those votes for the next two decades. Erin Reed (@ErinInTheMorn) November 11, 2024Other representatives have voiced support for trans people by directly rebuking Democrats who have tried to abandon them in the wake of Donald Trumps victory. After the election, Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-NY) and Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA) both told the New York Times that they did not support trans girls playing on womens sports teams and accused Democrats of pandering to progressives rather than focusing on fixing Americans problems this despite the fact that both Suozzi and Moulton have historically supported trans rights. Massachusetts state Rep. Manny Cruz (D) slammed Moulton on X, reminding him he once stood for LGBTQ+ inclusion: Congressman Moulton, your commitment then was to protecting the LGBTQ community, standing up for their rights, and compassion. Now, on a political whim, our Congressman has betrayed the words he signed onto just last year by scapegoating transgender youth in sports for the failures of the national Democratic party and leaders to win the presidential election.Cruz also claimed, It is this type of hypocrisy from national Democrats that has led the American people to believe that our party is untrustworthy. Your blind spots and hypocrisy are glaring. Now you are the first to abandon the LGBTQ+ community, and have gone back on your word.Your statements @RepMoulton yesterday and today are a large part of the reason Democrats underperformed across the country. It is this type of hypocrisy from national Democrats that has led Manny Cruz (@MannyCruz_MA) November 9, 2024Democratic Salem city Councilor Kyle Davis, called for Moultons resignation on X, saying an apology wouldnt cut it. Im not looking for an apology from @sethmoulton Im looking for a resignation. Kyle Davis (@KyleForSalem) November 8, 2024 Massachusetts state Senator Jamie Eldridge also condemned Moulton and encouraged the state Democratic party to not abandon our values. As a legislator fighting for #LGBTQ rights from marriage equality to #transgender rights to #ParentageAct , w/ pride in Massachusetts being a welcoming state, I condemn Cong. Moultons comments on transgender athletes. @MassDems do not abandon our values https://t.co/6QvI6oHnuV Jamie Eldridge (@JamieEldridgeMA) November 8, 2024California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) has begun taking action, announcing that he has convened a special legislative session in advance of Trumps inauguration to protect California values, which he made clear includes LGBTQ+ rights. The freedoms we hold dear in California are under attack and we wont sit idle, Newsom said in a statement. California has faced this challenge before, and we know how to respond. We are prepared, and we will do everything necessary to ensure Californians have the support and resources they need to thrive.Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D) also spoke out in support of LGBTQ+ people and other vulnerable groups in the wake of Trumps victory, ensuring residents of the state he would do everything in his power to protect them. To anyone who intends to come take away the freedom and opportunity and dignity of Illinoisans, I would remind you that a happy warrior is still a warrior, Pritzker said. You come for my people, you come through me.We will continue to advance a positive, productive and inclusive agenda of our own, he added. One that brings opportunity to Illinois and helps uplift the nation as a whole.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

In the aftermath of Donald Trumps win last week, The Trevor Project saw a massive increase in calls, texts and chats. The suicide prevention organization for LGBTQ+ youth saw a nearly 700% rise in communications compared to weeks prior.Election-related concerns among young people contacting the nonprofit skyrocketed by nearly 5,200% compared to averages leading up to election day. Related Donald Trumps entire education policy is apparently stopping schools from transitioning kids A dad asked Trump what he would do to help failing public schools. Trump said he would stop them from transitioning kids. The overwhelming outreach confirmed the results of a recent national survey by The Trevor Project and Morning Consult that revealed 90% of LGBTQ+ young people said their well-being was negatively impacted due to recent politics. 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 Trevor Project wants LGBTQ+ young people to know that we are here for you, no matter the outcome of any election, and we will continue to fight for every LGBTQ+ young person to have access to safe, affirming spaces especially during challenging times. LGBTQ+ young people: your life matters, and you were born to live it, said Jaymes Black, the organizations CEO, in a statement following the election.The Trump campaign and associated groups, including the National Republican Senatorial Committee, spent nearly $215 million vilifying the LGBTQ+ community and trans people with ads portraying Democrats as radical in their support for they/them while Trump and fellow Republicans were for you.Even before the ad onslaught reached critical mass in airings during NFL games in October, transgender youth, in particular, were feeling the weight of Republicans demonization following the passage of dozens of anti-trans bills in at least 19 red states. A Trevor Project study of 61,000 respondents published in September found concern over anti-trans legislation increased suicide attempts in the past year among transgender and nonbinary youth in the United States by as much as 72%.In 2024, 43 state legislatures introduced a record 664 bills targeting the trans community, according to Trans Legislation Tracker, four times the number introduced in 2022. 45 of those bills passed.Trump has vowed to outlaw gender-affirming care for minors and says hell ask Congress to pass a bill establishing that the only genders recognized by the United States government are male and female, as assigned at birth. LGBTQ+ advocacy group GLAADhas tracked 225 instancesin which the former president, his administration, or campaign impeded progress or rolled back established policy for the trans community via executive orders, legislative support, speeches, and nominations since 2016.Its going to be daunting for our community, said Sarah Kate Ellis, the groups president and chief executive officer.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

At long last, eager fans of Wicked are closing in on their chance to see the screen adaptation for themselves, but the premiere in Los Angeles over the weekend didnt come without its share of controversy.To be fair, the controversy doesnt surround the film itself, but rather around toy company Mattel and no, were not talking about Trixie.In one of the biggest and I oop snafus weve seen in some time, it seems somebody on the packaging side of things wasnt fully paying attention, as they printed a link to wicked.com on the box, rather than the films website of wickedmovie.com.At first glance, this seems like an innocent mistake until you learn that wicked.com is an adults-only website for the long-established Wicked Pictures porn company, which used to house the legendary Stormy Daniels.Mind you, the doll is marketed for children aged four and up. (@) At that, the website for wicked.com has been around since 1993, which makes this even more embarrassing for the company. Following the major oopsie, a spokesperson for the company released a statement saying they were made aware of a misprint on the packaging of the Mattel Wicked collection dolls, primarily sold in the U.S., which intended to direct consumers to the official WickedMovie.com landing page and that they deeply regret this unfortunate error and are taking immediate action to remedy this. Parents are advised that the misprinted, incorrect website is not appropriate for children.If youre already an owner of one of these dolls, they added, Consumers who already have the product are advised to discard the product packaging or obscure the link and may contact Mattel Customer Service for further information.By the end of Sunday afternoon, Target had pulled their entire line of Mattel dollsfashion, singing, deluxe collectibles, and allfrom their shelves, and none of these dolls are available at any other retailers.While some people think this was done on purpose and this is proof that were still attacking the children, (sure, Jan) others view this as just a major oversight. But really, whomst among us? Either way, its unlikely to do anything to sway audiences from checking out the film for themselves when it drops on November 22.In the meantime, have a scroll for some reactions. (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@)

Gay New York Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) weighed in on Democrats disastrous performance in last weeks election, saying the results reflected wishful thinking on the part of the party, supporters, and the media.Surprised? No, I was not surprised, Torres, who represents a majority Black and Latino working-class district in the Bronx, told The Atlantic. Much of my side in politics, and much of the media, was in a state of self-deception. We confused analysis with wishful thinking. Related The type of nation I wish I lived in The U.S. isnt the freest or most progressive country in the world, but heres what it might look like if it were Torres said Democratic nominee Kamala Harris ran a vigorous and effective campaign but couldnt overcome the reality of voters dissatisfaction with the post-pandemic economy. 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 majority of Americans disapprove of Bidens performance and felt they were worse off, Torres said. Harris, was not responsible for the inflation, but objectively, that was a near-insurmountable disadvantage.But Torres also pointed to Democrats alienation from the working-class voters that swept Trump to an electoral college victory and the first popular vote win for a Republican in 20 years.Donald Trump had no greater friend than the far left, Torres said, which alienated historic numbers of Latinos, Blacks, Asians, and Jews with absurdities like Defund the police or From the river to the sea or Latinx. The term Latinx, in particular, has been under fire since before the election. Marcel Roman, a Harvard government professor,said hes discovered Latino voters deeply dislike the sobriquet, which he described as part of a political education meant to root out queerphobia in Latino communities.Arizona Senate candidate and current U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) banned the term in congressional communications and by canvassers who reached out to voters on the campaign trail this year. When Latino politicos use the term it is largely to appease white rich progressives who think that is the term we use. It is a vicious circle of confirmation bias, Gallego tweeted in 2021. With 92% of the vote in, Gallego currently leads Republican challenger Kari Lake by about 80,000 votes, according to the AP.Its just important that white liberals dont impose their thoughts and policies on us, Gallego told The Atlantic. The League of United Latin American Citizens, the countrys oldest Latino advocacy group, has dropped Latinx, as well.The reality is, there is very little to no support for its use, and its sort of seen as something used inside the Beltway or in Ivy League tower settings, Garca told NBC News.Torres was clear-eyed about the message a majority of voters sent across the country and in his own district.He remains a progressive Democrat on economic issues, fundamental rights, and the effects of a broken immigration system addressing the needs of undocumented workers in the Bronx is a regular part of his job but says, You have to recognize that in a democracy, public opinion matters. He added, We cannot just assume that we can reshape the world in a utopian way.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Theres never a dull moment in DILF Mansion, and thats never been truer than now. Last week, PRIDE exclusively revealed the cast of For the Love of DILFs season three and today, OUTtv dropped the trailer for the upcoming season of the hit and oh-so-steamy gay reality dating series, and folks, its absolute fire. This season sees a fresh group of Daddies and Himbos entering the (literal) gates of (a brand new) DILF Manor on the hunt for real connections, true romance, and, of course, steamy moments with someone from another generation. One lucky couple will not only win $10,000 to start their new lives together but the greatest gift of all love, duh! Its camp, its romantic, its hilarious, and yes, its even quite moving, as these men put it all out there and open up their hearts for a chance at love.Returning to rule the house with her quick wit (and those killer curves) is our beloved Stormy Daniels, who plays equal parts master of ceremonies and emotional support MILF to the men. Naturally, the new trailer kicks off with Daniels quipping, The conservatives havent figured out how to stop me yet! And it just gets wilder from there. We see hints of the dramatic season to come, with Daddies hopping from Himbo to Himbo this time, professions of love, passionate kisses, and even an ambulance being called following an injury during the show. And all that just barely scratches the surface of the twisty, turny, unfailingly entertaining season ahead. Ugh, why cant it be November 26 right now? Because thats the day this series returns on OUTtv. In the meantime check out the trailer below! =

"I think the biggest challenge of my life has been being born male."RuPaul's Drag Race's "Portrait of a Queen" series returns with season nine "Miss Congeniality", All Stars 4 contestant, and Drag Race Mexico host Valentina, this line immediately setting the tone for what would follow in the interview. She is vulnerable, and sincere as she continued telling the story of how she has dealt internally and externally throughout her life with being queer.The 33-year-old drag star continued, saying "I had this conversation with my brother where I was thinking I identify with Ariel from The Little Mermaid, but my brother cracked me by telling me that I was really more like Pinocchio, trying to prove to my father that I was a real boy."See on InstagramSo it was this putting on of the masculinity walk this way, talk this way, study this, go to this restroom I think it really took me away from my authentic self, I think that's been really challenging my whole life."Last year, Valentina opened up about her experience with gender in a beautiful interview with the LA Times. She started identifying as nonbinary. She told the Times, "The nonbinary spectrum allows me to shape-shift and explore many parts of myself. Think of the muxes of Oaxaca, who embrace the third gender. Being nonbinary is full of so many opportunities. If you want them, you can give them a try; if you want to conform, that is OK too. Its a very common experience to be binary. But to be nonbinary is very freeing, its quite punk rock. It rattles up society and how its constructed.In the same interview, she also spoke frankly about how much of this journey was in response to the loss of her father in 2019. She felt the pressure many trans people feel to conform or stay closeted to please their family. "I found that staying masculine was a badge of honor and respect to my father...now that he's gone, I don't feel I would shame him for who I am. To embrace my femininity was to give myself another chance and live my life on my terms."See on Instagram In the Times interview, Valentina also reveals that the death of her father was so devastating that she even contemplated suicide. "I felt like I died," she said, adding, "There was no captain of my ship. I didnt know where to take my life. Ive been depressed since I was little, but that was the deepest. It is why I started to work with The Trevor Project in Mexico to prevent suicide and crisis in queer youth Ive been to that darkest point, and I want to save lives."In the "Portrait of a Queen" trailer, she revisits that time in her life, saying "I'm really ashamed of having suicidal thoughts before. I'm really ashamed of it because I don't ever want to go back to that low point in my life where I don't see the valley of how life is beautiful. And now that I get to live authentically in the feminine realm, I get to enjoy every day, wake up as her."See on InstagramMany trans people explore their gender through drag before coming out, transitioning, or sometimes even realizing that they're transgender. Valentina is far from the first nonbinary queen, and plenty of RuPaul's Drag Race contestants have come out as trans along with her. Valentina expresses a deep love and reverence for the role that drag and being Valentina has played in her gender journey."Valentina is born out of my yearning for protagonism, [for] my curioustiy to femininity that's never gone away," she said. About where the inspiration for her iconic aesthetic comes from, she said, "Valentina, I think, is the combination of an old Hollywood formula mixed with telenovela star. [Valentina] Started as a fantasy, but I just became her, and I just love being the princess of south east Los Angeles."Valentina's trailer can be watch below, and her full episode of "Portrait of a Queen" can be watched here.@rupaulsdragrace#PortraitOfAQueen returns with #Valentina Now LIVE on the #DragRace YouTube channel If you or someone you know is struggling emotionally, visit paramount.findahelpline.com for resources and support. #rpdr #drag #dragqueen #dragrace9

LGBTQ+ people have no obligation to engage with family members who voted for Donald Trump, according to one psychiatrist. Yale University child psychiatrist Dr. Amanda Calhoun spoke with MSNBC host Joy Reid on Friday about what will inevitably be a fraught holiday season for many people. Donald Trump and MAGAs vicious anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric has left queer folks especially trans people terrified for what the incoming administration will bring. Many say that a vote for Trump is an act of violence against the marginalized communities he rails against, and for some, that violence has been committed by members of their own families. Related Dems stand up for trans people amid election loss blame game One activist cautioned that anyone abandoning trans folks will wear that decision like an albatross around their neck. Reid asked Calhoun what women, LGBTQ+ people, and other groups should be thinking about as we approach the holiday season: Do you recommend, just from a psychological standpoint, being around them? Your LGBTQ+ guide to Election 2024 Stay ahead of the 2024 Election with our newsletter that covers candidates, issues, and perspectives that matter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today There is a push, I think just a societal norm that if somebody is your family that they are entitled to your time, said Calhoun, and I think the answer is absolutely not.If you are going through a situation where you have family members, where you have close friends who you know have voted in ways that are against you, against your livelihood, its completely fine to not be around those people and to tell them why, to say, I have a problem with the way that you voted because it went against my very livelihood, and Im not going to be around you this holiday, I need to take some space for me.'Calhoun said her message applies to adults as well as the parents of vulnerable children. I dont think you should force children, I dont think you should force adults to be around people just because theyre your family. If you feel like you need to establish boundaries with people, whether theyre your family or not, I think you should very much be entitled to do so, and I think it may be essential for your mental health. She concluded, It may be essential for your mental health. @msnbc In a conversation with @Joy Ann Reid on @The ReidOut with Joy Reid, Dr. Amanda Calhoun, chief resident of the Yale psychiatry program, discusses strategies for navigating relationships with family members who hold opposing political views or who voted in ways contrary to your own interests. #politics #election #family #legislation #congress #news #Donaldtrump #kamalaharris original sound MSNBC Even before Trump won, LGBTQ+ mental health was suffering as a result of the barrage of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation being proposed and passed in state legislatures. A study published in September foundthat anti-transgender laws have a direct, causal relationship with youth suicide attempts, with attempted suicide rates increasing by as much as 72% following the passage of such laws. Another from the same month found that exposure to anti-LGBTQ+ media increases suicidal ideation among young LGBTQ+ adults, suggestingthat recent public debates over LGBTQ+ rightsand transgender rights in particularmay be harming young peoples mental well-being.In October, the Urvashi Vaid National LGBTQ+ Womens Community Survey found that more than one in five LGBTQ+ women have attempted suicide, 66% reported seeking treatment for trauma, and nearly half live with anxiety (44%) or depression (51%). And in the aftermath of Donald Trumps win last week, The Trevor Project saw a massive increase in calls, texts and chats. The suicide prevention organization for LGBTQ+ youth saw anearly 700%rise in communications compared to weeks prior, and election-related concerns among young people contacting the nonprofit skyrocketed by nearly 5,200% compared to averages leading up to election day.Editors note: If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at988lifeline.org. TheTrans Lifeline(1-877-565-8860) is staffed by trans people and will not contact law enforcement. The Trevor Project provides a safe, judgement-free place to talk for youth viachat, text (678-678), or phone (1-866-488-7386). Help is available at all three resources in English and Spanish.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

A classic clip from Australian Survivor is going viral once again thanks to a bare ass and some dude wrestling.In 2017, the second season of Australia's version of Survivor featured a challenge where two members of different "tribes" 27-year-old adventurer Locky and former special ops commander Mark, crashed down a miniature water slide to claim a ball at the end for their team.Water slides are already a natural foe to swim shorts, but the competitive nature of one of the contestants was what really caused the drama. As Locky, slid into the lead, the other, Mark, grabbed at his shorts to slow him down. And he didn't let go, meaning it wasn't long before Locky was baring his, well, "down under" for the whole world to see.The two continued struggling over the ball despite the clothing faux pas, which made for the kind of scene that's usually a flimsy precursor to something more likely to end up behind a paywall online than airing on television. (@) The clip went viral when it initially aired, but it's received a new life this month thanks to @FoxyDMD's narration of their first time watching Australian Survivor. And regardless of whether this was an introduction or a reminder, folks were clearly just as thrilled to see this moment on their timelines. (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) Is this what all reality television should be?? (All signs point to "yes.")

Michael Cimino is definitely all grown up!This weekend Michael Cimino turned 25. What better way tof te this hunk than will a stroll through some of his steamiest pictures after all this hunk loves a thirst trap and we love seeing them, respectfully! Though he had previously appeared on shows such as Training Day and Walk the Plank, as well as films like Shangri-La Suite and Annabelle Comes Home, Michael Ciminos breakout role came when he played the titular character on Hulus Love, Victor.Following the massive success of the coming-of-age queer movie Love, Simon, Hulu greenlit a spinoff series based on a new character who was exploring his sexual orientation and coming out of the closet. Over the course of three seasons, we watched Victor Salazar go through a lot of experiences that feel familiar to gay men.In 2022, Love, Victor ended its run with a third and final season that streamed on both Hulu and Disney+. Since then, Cimino has starred in Senior Year and Centurion: The Dancing Stallion on the big screen. He also landed recurring roles on very popular TV shows like How I Met Your Father and Never Have I Ever.A lot of fans might still remember Cimino as the high-schooler he played on television. Alas, the 25-year-old actor is definitely all grown up already.Thirsty as he makes us, let us not forget that he told NBC News back in 2020 that he wasn't gay... but also that he wasn't totally straight either. "I don't feel that anyone is 100 percent straight or 100 percent wherever you lie on the scale," he said at the time. "I feel like sexuality is not necessarily fluid. It's more like a spectrum. And so finding out where you lie on that is important."Wherever he is on the spectrum, we're happy to look at him either way.Scroll through to see sexy pictures of Michael Cimino and make sure to follow him on Instagram at @itsmichaelcimino.See on InstagramSee on Instagram View this post on Instagram A post shared by Michael Cimino (@itsmichaelcimino)See on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on InstagramSee on Instagram View this post on Instagram A post shared by Michael Cimino (@itsmichaelcimino)

While exit polls have indicated that inflation and an unpopular incumbent president both doomed Kamala Harris 107-day run for president, some Democrats are blaming their partys embrace of transgender people for Harris loss. Though several signs indicate that trans issues werent responsible for the elections outcome, some pundits are urging Democrats to reconsider how they engage the issue rather than abandon trans rights altogether.Republicansinvested about $215 millioninto airinganti-trans TV adsthat repeated claims about Democrats wanting boys to play girls sports and supporting taxpayer-funded gender-affirming surgeries for inmates. One ad aired repeatedly during football games to reach male voters and suburban women showed pictures of Harris next to a drag queen, a trans woman, and a nonbinary person; and ended with the tagline, Kamala is for they/them. President Trump is for you. Related Lesbian Fox News guest blames gender fluidity for Democrats Election Day losses No Democratic candidates campaigned on gender fluidity. 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 Democrats largely avoided engaging with this issue. The Democratic National Conventiondidnt have a transgender speakerandonly mentioned trans issues onceduring a speech by Human Rights Campaign (HRC) President Kelley Robinson.In one of her first TV interviews, Harris briefly said that the Constitution requires the government to provide medically necessary care, including gender-affirming care, to all inmates. Former President Bill Clinton reportedly advised Harris campaign to respond more forcefully to the ads, but the campaign said it felt that the ads werent having any effect. However, one poll showed about 64% of voters said they viewed anti-trans attack ads against Harris, and Future Forward (a pro-Harris super PAC), found that Trumps ad against Harris shifted the race 2.7 percentage points in Mr. Trumps favor after viewers watched it.Before the election, two Democratic congressional candidates were criticized for releasing ads clarifying that they dont support trans athletes: Rep. Colin Allred (D-TX) and Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) both men lost their congressional races against Republicans who ran transphobic ads. Since the election, numerous Democrats and pundits have claimed that trans issues contributed to Democrats Election Night losses. Gilberto Hinojosa, the Texas Democratic Partys chair for the last 12 years, said that Democrats lost because they supported trans rights and other cultural issues that a bulk of our population does not support. Hinojosa later apologized, and on Friday, he resigned, citing Democrats devastating defeats up and down the ballot.Reps. Tom Suozzi (D-NY)and Seth Moulton (D-MA) both recently said that Democrats shouldnt be defending biological boys playing in girls sports. Moultons campaign manager and political committee director resigned after Moultons comment, but Moulton has doubled down, telling CNN, that he may not have used exactly the right words but was speaking authentically as a parent about one of many issues where Democrats are just out of touch with the majority of Americans.We try to cancel people rather than actually having debates about issues that Americans care about, he said. Joe Scarborough, host of MSNBCs Morning Joenews talk program,said the anti-trans ads had a bigger impact than any ad that ran, and said that the issue has even alienated Democratic voters who have daughters playing sports and are afraid of publicly discussing trans athletes for fear of being canceled for saying something politically incorrect.Indeed, the attacks have occurred in a political climate that has seen increasing right-wing-led reactions against trans people: 26 states have laws banning trans athletes in sports and gender-affirming care for trans youth. Over the last two years, anti-trans activists have recently launched media campaigns against Bud Light, competitive trans swimmer Lia Thomas, Algerian pro boxer Imane Khelif, and Planet Fitness.Despite this, the Human Rights Campaign has repeatedly said that anti-trans ads are a waste of money because polls showed that only 4% of voters listed trans issues as among their primary concerns. Other polls have shown that most Americans oppose anti-trans discrimination and political candidates. Nonetheless, One of the mysteries of this election is how the Democrats approached polling day with a set of policies on gender identity that they were neither proud to champion nor prepared to disown. Atlantic writer Helen Lewis said in a recent column, adding that Bidens administration has long pushed the new orthodoxy on gender, without ever really explaining to the American people why it mattersor, more crucially, what it actually involves.Lewis notes that President Joe Bidens administration officials have advocated for removing lower age limits for gender surgeries for minors; Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson refused to define what a woman is during her Senate confirmation hearing, saying, Im not a biologist; Bidens Department of Education has said schools potentially violate Title IX when they dont allow trans athletes to compete on teams matching their gender identity.Athletes who have gone through male puberty are typically stronger and faster than biological females, Lewis wrote. Rather than contend with that fact, many on the left have retreated to a comfort zone of claiming that opposition to trans women in womens sports is driven principally by transphobia, even going so far to accuse others of using slurs if people misgender trans athletes in conversations about the issue. She said the anti-trans ads tapped into a larger concern about Democrats: that they were elitists who ruled by fiat, declined to defend their unpopular positions, and treated skeptics as bigots. Gender might not have been high on voters list of concerns, but immigration and the border wereand all the same criticisms of Democratic messaging apply to those subjects, too.Naturally, trans advocates have been telling Democrats not to blame trans people for the elections results.Please do not blame trans issues or trans people for why we lost, Sam Alleman, the Harris campaigns LGBTQ-engagement director, wrote on X. Trans folks have been and are going to be a primary target of Project 2025 and need us to have their backs now more than ever. Out Rep. Becca Balint (D-VT) said, No, were not going to abandon our support of all Americans, including our trans friends and neighbors and family members. Absolutely not. Instead, Balint said that Democrats should work on strengthening their coalition of voters.Brad Pritchett, the interim chief executive of LGBTQ+ advocacy group Equality Texas, cautioned, This is something that Democrats need to stop and remember what their values are. We live and run campaigns by the values we hold dear.He also noted that NBC News exit polls showed that 86% of LGBTQ+ voters supported Harris and that Democrats shouldnt be alienating some of their most loyal supporters. Echoing Balints comment, Sarah Kate Ellis, president and CEO of GLAAD, said, Trans people and other marginalized communities were unwillingly dragged into a relentless, baseless smear campaign from the right wing throughout this election. Mainstream media should be focusing on the facts: this was an immoral onslaught against a small group of people who just want to be themselves and live safely The inaccurate fear tactics became a distraction that allowed candidates to dodge accountability for real issues on the minds of voters like economic policies, abortion access, and healthcare.Times columnist Philip Elliott wrote that Democrats who are blaming trans issues for Democrats election losses are treating trans people as a scapegoat, adding, Rather than ask why Democrats didnt do more to explain that standing up for trans kids is just the right thing to do, these politicians are trying to absolve their compatriots silence.MSNBC columnist Hayes Brown noted that Democrats only spent $9 million to refute the GOPs anti-trans attacks, rebuffing the idea that Democrats lost for embracing trans issues too tightly. Brown noted that numerous trans and nonbinary candidates won historic races on Election Day, rebuffing the idea that voters are transphobic. Brown also noted that LGBTQ+ crisis services had a major spike in calls since Election Day and that Republicans under President-elect Trump will herald a new wave of anti-trans attacks and a rollback of Bidens pro-trans protections.This doesnt mean that Democrats need to run from the issue or continue to discuss it in terms of boys playing girls sports.As an example of how Democratic candidates could address the issue head-on, trans journalist Erin Reed pointed to Jeff Jackson, a Democrat who recently won his race to become North Carolinas next attorney general, as an example of how to effectively counter anti-trans messaging: Stand up for the dignity and inclusion of all people, tell Republicans to stop trying to regulate peoples personal medical decisions, and hammer the poor records of their political opponents while acknowledging voters economic concerns. You want to see how you message transgender issues and anti-trans attack ads?Look no further than Jeff Jackson, running for AG of North Carolina.Dems, take notice.pic.twitter.com/Mozf7js5hb Erin Reed (@ErinInTheMorn) October 16, 2024Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Beloved lesbian feminist Dorothy Allison, the author of Bastard Out of California, has passed away at age 75. An obituary reports her passing was due to cancer.Her work focused on queer and working-class Southern characters, and examined love between people. She was influenced by the feminist movement of the 1970s, working as an activist in Florida, New York City and Washington, D.C. Related Heres who won LGBTQ Nations 2023 Heroes Congratulations! Part of my role, as I saw it, was to be a kind of evangelical lesbian feminist, and to help develop a political analysis of this woman-hating society, she famously wrote. 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 editing the feminist newspaper Amazing Grace while contributing writings to Quest, Out/Look, The Village Voice, and Conditions, she began to publish collections of poetry. Her first, Trash, was met with critical acclaim, being honored with two Lambda Literary Awards. She went on to write poetry, novels, and self-described smut, as well as founding the Lesbian Sex Mafia, which describes itself as the oldest continuously running womens BDSM support and education group in the country.She described her work with Conditions in some of her writings. Sitting on the floor at editorial meetings talking about writing and manuscripts and how women might work toward a more just and equitable world, I looked around and felt my heart thudding between my breasts, she wrote. I loved each and every one of us. I loved what we were trying to do even as we quibbled over line breaks in a poem or structure in an essay.She published the poetry collection The Women Who Hate Me in 1983, and then went on to publish Bastard Out of California in 1992, which received a National Book Award Nomination. This novel was later adapted into a television movie on Showtime. Her second novel, Cavedweller, was released in 1998 and became a TV movie in 2004.Other works of hers include the 1994 essay collection Skin: Talking About Sex, Class, & Literature and the 1995 memoir Two or Three Things I Know for Sure.In her writings, she was not afraid to tackle taboo subjects like sexual abuse or characters from marginalized communities.Allison was born in 1949 in Greenville, South Carolina. She had a difficult childhood marked by poverty and sexual, physical, and emotional abuse, according to Sinister Wisdom. After receiving various scholarships, she got her bachelors and masters degreesShe is survived by her son Wolf and many friends.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

This is the representation we need!Cameron Wright is making quite a splash since on The Voice after their blind audition received four chair turns from the esteemed group of judges: Michael Bubl, Gwen Stefani, Reba McEntire, and Snoop Dogg.Now as a member of Team Michael, the singer has advanced to the knockout rounds and they're hoping to eventually end up in the winner's circle."Honestly, it's been an overwhelming experience. I can't believe that people are sending me the messages that I've been receiving. Someone who was 15 or 16 said, 'You allowed me to walk in my they/themness.' That one appearance of me is allowing space for someone else to be themselves," Wright tells PRIDE. See on Instagram The star is not only wowing audiences with their gorgeous vocals, but Wright is also bringing their unique sense of style onto the stage every week."It's just as important as the vocal! A lot of the stuff that I'm wearing on the season is either my own or stuff I picked out. I love [being] provocative. I'm very edgy, but I'm also very fem classic. I love a good tailored suit with nothing on underneath. I would say fem rock 'n' roll."Earlier this year, The Voice crowned its first out LGBTQ+ winner, Asher HaVon, and Wright hopes to continue that winning streak for the LGBTQ+ community."It would be very significant. It's tangible evidence that we are making major strides as a people. I just want to keep performing and expanding as a queer Black artist."The Voice airs Monday and Tuesday nights on NBC. To see the full interview with Cameron Wright, check out the video at the top of the page.

Fans of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills were shocked when star Kyle Richards announced she was splitting from long-time husband Mauricio Umansky. This was followed by speculation, spurred on by both Richards and country singer Morgan Wade (that music video, I mean, come on) and what fans felt they witnessed on the show (the chemistry, I mean, come on) that the two were dating.That season also saw Richards teaching the ladies how to scissor and, when asked by Andy Cohen during the season 13 reunion if she could see herself with a woman, Richards remained vague, saying only that she was evolving and changing. With season 14 on the horizon, Richards is opening up a bit more at last. In an interview with Page Six, the reality star admitted that she was terrified to have a difficult conversation with her daughter about her evolving sexuality. It was the most difficult conversation Ive ever had with my children and I was terrified to have that conversation. I just wanted to be as honest as I possibly could, she explained. There were stories out there about me and this did make me wonder, you know, and question myself.For Richards, the very idea of being anything less than straight was previously beyond her imagination. I really never thought like this before. This is not the way I was raised. Thats not the way my mind even operated, she says of her mental state before turning to her kids. And all of a sudden I was thinking like that and I wanted to be as honest with them as possible because they are my best friends.Richardss greatest fear was that her daughters would be hurt or rejected, but instead, she says they immediately embraced her now more fluid sexuality. Having that conversation, their reaction and response to me, I thought, Wow, I mean, Im just so impressed by these four women in front of me, she said. And I thought, Maybe, just maybe, I did do a good job because that was my most proud moment as a mom, just seeing how they all reacted.As for her relationship with Wade, Richards says the two no longer spend the kind of time together that they did previously, saying reality TV took its toll on their dynamic. I think she just didnt want any part of anything to do with my role [on] reality television and all that came with it, adding. The paparazzi and all that was very overwhelming. Notably, Wade scrubbed her social media of Richards in February. We certainly wish Richards nothing but love Sapphic or otherwise but let's be honest, we totally want to claim this Real Housewife as one of our own.

Even though visibility of trans women in media has slightly improved with singers like Kim Petras, actresses like Laverne Cox, and shows like Pose and Euphoria, mainstream representation for trans men still remains a big issue. This has been a subject of many think-pieces, documentaries, and special features on TV, but the problem persists in Hollywood as a whole.Thankfully, there are a few trans men and nonbinary folks who are breaking ground in the public eye and are making a name for themselves inspiring a whole generation of trans people who are finally seeing themselves in movies, TV shows, reality competitions, music videos, fashion campaigns, and even through a big following on social media.Now is the perfect opportunity to spotlight a group of incredibly attractive trans guys and nonbinary folks who should get your attention and perhaps also get your follow on social media!Scroll through to see the sexy trans men you should be following on Instagram.Elliot PageSee on InstagramInstagram: @elliotpageBrian Michael SmithSee on InstagramInstagram: @the_brianmichaelTheo GermaineSee on InstagramKai WesSee on Instagram View this post on Instagram A post shared by Emmett Preciado (@emmettpreciado)Ben MelzerSee on InstagramJaimie WilsonSee on InstagramInstagram: @tboy61915Chella ManSee on InstagramInstagram: @chellamanLaith AshleySee on InstagramInstagram: @laith_ashleyBailan BuschbaumSee on InstagramGottmikSee on InstagramInstagram: @gottmikTarso BrantSee on InstagramInstagram: @tarsobrantJesse SullivanSee on InstagramInstagram: @jessesulliMae MartinSee on InstagramTyson MarzouqSee on InstagramInstagram: @tysonmarzouqJerzey Saint WilsonSee on InstagramInstagram: @nickcruzLeo ShengSee on InstagramInstagram: @ileoshengJamie RainesSee on InstagramInstagram: @jammi.dodgerViktor BelmontSee on InstagramInstagram: @mrviktorbelmontAlan OliveiraSee on InstagramInstagram: @alanoliveiraoofcDominic GreenSee on InstagramInstagram: @lolhidominicAydian DowlingSee on InstagramInstagram: @alionsfearSchuyler BailarSee on InstagramInstagram: @pinkmantarayAdrin De La VegaSee on InstagramInstagram: @adrian.de.lavegaJake GraffSee on InstagramInstagram: @jake_graf5

Someone on the Scream Queens set dared step to Keke Palmer first of all, unacceptable and secondly the internet already has a lot of thoughts as to who it might have been.The Hustlers star has been promoting her upcoming book, Master of Me: The Secret to Controlling Your Narrative, in which she discusses a number of her experiences in Hollywood good and bad. According to the Los Angeles Times, one of the reveals Palmer makes in the book involves a racist remark spouted at her by an upset co-worker.During the filming of Scream Queens, Palmer alleges that a white co-star (who she refers to by the pseudonym "Brenda") had been in a dispute with someone else on set. When she tried to calm things down, she says "Brenda" replied by saying, "Keke, literally, just dont. Who do you think you are? Martin F Luther King?"Considering two of Palmer's co-stars from Scream Queens have very publicly faced accusations of making bigoted comments on other sets, folks online immediately began speculating that the mysterious "Brenda" might be one of them. (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) Palmer isn't naming names, however, as she said she doesn't want to make things about this co-star.This wasn't the only disappointing anecdote she shared about Scream Queens, though. The LA Times article also references "an angry phone call" with show creator Ryan Murphy after Palmer wasn't available outside of the shooting times she'd previously been given, as well as a co-worker trying to make her feel bad about that incident. And of course now we're all left wondering whether it was the same culprit, or if there are more Scream Queens stars we should be annoyed with than we know.

How a Wardrobe Malfunction Made Chris Jones Unforgettable at the NFL CombineIt was one of those unforgettable moments the NFL Combine will always remember. Defensive lineman Chris Jones, competing with hundreds of hopefuls for a spot in the league, found himself in an unusual situationone that made headlines and turned him into a viral sensation.Jones, known for his humor and resilience, faced what might be the most memorable wardrobe malfunction in Combine history. During his 40-yard dash, a critical test of speed and agility, Joness black tights failed him. About 15 yards into the sprint, his gear shifted in a way that left him unexpectedly exposed. After finishing the dash, he dove to the ground to regain his composure, covering himself and grinning, as his fellow athletes laughed along.Reflecting on the mishap, Jones took it all in stride, saying with his trademark humor, Better me than someone else. Its this lighthearted approach thats endeared him to fans, from his high school days in Houston, Mississippi, to his standout college career at Mississippi State.Joness journey to the Combine was one marked by hard work and dedication. Despite the early hour, he consistently showed up at 6 a.m. during training, focused on perfecting his form. While the 40-yard dash might not have gone as planned, his performance impressed scouts with his tenacity and athleticism. Ultimately, the Kansas City Chiefs recognized his talent, selecting him 37th overall in the 2016 NFL Draft.Since then, Jones has proven himself on and off the field. Whether hes crushing plays for the Chiefs or becoming a fan-favorite for his humor, hes shown he can handle any challengewardrobe malfunctions included. Id do it all over again, he said of the experience, embracing the quirks that make him stand out. For Jones, its all just part of his unforgettable journey in the NFL.The post Chris Jones Remembers That Time His D*ck Fell Out of His Shorts appeared first on Gayety.

Maryland police have arrested 11 Salisbury University students for allegedly using the Grindr hook-up app to lure and attack 18-year-old Zachary Leinemann in an off-campus apartment, leaving him with bruising and a broken rib. The attackers recorded the assault on video, leading to their arrest.The arrested students allegedly set up a profile claiming to be a 16-year-old gay male 16 is the age of consent in Maryland. They then talked with Leinemann via Snapchat and then lured him to the apartment with the promise of an intimate encounter. Related Bullies gave a trans boy a concussion. His school did nothing. He was jumped by a group of students theres even video of the horrific attack. When Leinemann entered, he was ambushed by a group of 15 men who forced him to sit in a chair, yelled homophobic slurs at him, and refused to let him leave when he tried several times, WBOC reported. Stay connected to your community Connect with the issues and events that impact your community at home and beyond by subscribing to our newsletter. Subscribe to our Newsletter today The attackers allegedly threw him to the floor and then punched, kicked, and spit on him while shouting derogatory names, the police report said. One student hit him several times in the head with a cookie sheet. The attack reportedly lasted only a few minutes before they let him leave, but police said the attackers threatened not to tell anyone what had happened.While Leinemann is not a student, the other arrestees were, and seven were members of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. However, video of the assault somehow came into the hands of university officials who reported it to the Salisbury Police Department on October 31. Police identified Leinemann from the video, which showed his cars license plate number as he fled the scene.Leinemann reportedly went to a hospital for his broken rib. He said he is now traumatized and fearful of being attacked again.Those arrested include Bennan Aird, 18; Ryder Baker, 20; Riley Brister, 20; Cruz Cespedes, 19; Dylan Earp, 20; Patrick Gutierrez, 19; Cameron Guy, 18; Jacob Howard, 19; Elijah Johnson, 19; Dylan Pietuszka, 20; and Eric Sinclair, 21. The arrestees have been charged with assault in the first degree, false imprisonment, reckless endangerment, and hate crimes.Bristers defense attorney, Steven Rakow,told WJZ Newsthat his client intends to plead not guilty and added, Theres more to the story than whats being reported in the press. Acts of violence toward LGBTQ+ and ally communities are not only destructive but at odds with the principles of community, respect, and belonging that bind us together as a university, Salisbury University President Carolyn Ringer Lepre wrote in a statement.The thought of SU students perpetrating any crime is upsetting, but the thought of SU students perpetrating crimes of such a disturbing nature is truly horrifying, Lepre added, noting that the students will face further disciplinary action from the university.Sophomore Moe Collinstold WMDT that the reported assault had led many students to seek counseling resources through the universitys LGBTQ+ alliance. The fraternity reportedly expelled the suspected assailants, and the university suspended the fraternity. University students held a community vigil and unity walk on Monday in support of LGBTQ+ individuals.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.