Republicans have been accusing Democrats of secretly demanding concessions on LGBTQ+ issues to end the shutdown for the past month, despite LGBTQ+ issues not appearing at all in the continuing resolutions that would reopen the government. Now House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is getting called out by the myth-busting website Snopes for saying that Democrats are supposedly demanding funding for LGBTQ+ Balkans.The shutdown happened because Congress was unable to pass legislation to fund the federal government. Both Senate Democrats and Senate Republicans put forward continuing resolutions to fund the government, but neither passed because not enough senators from the opposing party voted for either, so the 60-vote threshold wasnt met. Related Mark Takano blasts Republicans for cruelly blaming shutdown on trans people The main difference between the Republican and Democratic resolutions is whether certain health care subsidies would run out at the end of this year: the Democrats resolution kept the health care credits alive, while the Republican resolution let them expire. The Democratic continuing resolution also contains some provisions that would make it more difficult for the president to simply ignore Congress power of the purse, since, as Democrats pointed out, theres no use in negotiating an end to the shutdown if the White House isnt going to respect Congress agreement.Democrats have been focusing the story on the health care credits, arguing that Republicans let the government shut down in order to make health care costs go up for millions of Americans and to partially fund tax breaks for the wealthy. Insights for the LGBTQ+ community Subscribe to our briefing for insights into how politics impacts the LGBTQ+ community and more. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Republicans are trying to shift the framing and blame LGBTQ+ people in particular. The president and other Republicans, for example, have said that the shutdown is happening because Democrats want free health care for undocumented immigrants and transgender for everybody, which isnt true.At a press conference last Tuesday, Johnson tried again to make the shutdown about LGBTQ+ people, saying that Democrats are demanding money to foreign countries, including $4 million for LGBTQI+ democracy grants in the Balkans. They want $2 million for feminist democratic principles projects in Africa. Were not doing that. BREAKING: In an infuriating development, Speaker Johnson exposes that to reopen the federal government, Chuck Schumer DEMANDED "$4 million for global LGBTQI+ awareness campaigns around the world""$4 million for LGBTQI+ democracy grants in the Balkans. They want $2 pic.twitter.com/9Vld9iyXxz Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) October 28, 2025 That statement was shared online by Republicans, who also appear to have made up the claim that it was Senate Majority Chuck Schumer (D-NY) who demanded the Balkan money, even though Johnson didnt say that.We found no evidence to support the idea that Schumer or any Congressional Democrat specifically demanded $4 million dedicated to LGBTQ+ awareness campaigns in order to reopen the government, Snopes wrote about the claim. Snopes believes that the number might come from the administrations attempts to cut a grant to Outright International for $3.9 million to promote democracy among LGBTQ+ people in the Western Balkans, one of many grants that the administration unilaterally rescinded without Congressional approval, perhaps illegally. Johnson even though he didnt explain this in his comments may have looked through all the different grants that the administration cut funding to this year, and since Democrats want to make it harder for the administration to cut funding to congressionally-approved programs, he picked out an LGBTQ+ grant and flogged it to draw attention away from the health care credits.Johnsons wording made it seem like the grant would be new spending, which it is not. The Balkan grant was approved in 2022 and lasts until 2027. LGBTQ Nation asked out Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA) the chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus about whether there is any reason to believe that the shutdown is because of LGBTQ+ spending or laws. Absolutely none, he said. Absolutely zero, none.Our funding bill does not include any changes to current laws as they relate to medical care for transgender people, Takano added. Our Democratic alternative bill does not do that.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Nicki Minaj's social media presence lately has increasingly put her at odds with her fans. Most stood by her amidst her online spat with Cardi B, where she said that the Bronx rapper's oldest daughter was a "roach" and a "monkey," but now she's found herself under even more scrutiny as she cozies up to Republican politicians and shows her support for President Donald Trump.On Saturday, Minaj uploaded a screenshot of a Truth Social post from Trump to X that talked about how Christians in Nigeria are "facing an existential threat" and that he is making the country a "country of particular concern." She praised the president and said she felt "a deep sense of gratitude" because we "live in a country where we can freely worship God." (@) Trump said that the persecution of Christians in Nigeria may result in swift military action from the United States if it continues. In an interview with Al Jazeera on Sunday, a spokesman for Nigerias Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied any targeting of Christians. "We are not proud of the security situation that we are passing through, but to go with the narrative (that Christians are the only ones being targeted) is not true. There is no Christian genocide in Nigeria," the spokesperson said. "Weve continuously made our point clear that we acknowledge the fact that there are killings that have taken place in Nigeria, but those killings were not restricted to Christians alone. Muslims are being killed. Traditional worshippers are being killed The majority is not the Christian population."One of Minaj's fans quote-tweeted her post praising Trump and said they are "tapping out" of being a fan, writing, "Nicki, as a die hard fan, who genuinely sticks besides you through every single scandal, you cozying up to this fucking loser, i might actually have to tap out," the post reads. "We live in a country that wants to weaponize religion so YOUR GAY FANS can be pushed into a corner and silenced." (@) The rapper then responded to the post, saying, "Imagine hearing that Christians are being MURDERED & making it about you being gay [] I'll advocate for you the same way that I'm advocating for MURDERED CHRISTIANS IN NIGERIA." She continued, "Like I always have. Just remember that. Diligently. Compassionately. Just remember that part, too!!!! Minaj laughed and doubted that the person she was interacting with was a "die hard fan" and threatened to block them. (@) She also prompted a response from Mike Waltz, the United States ambassador to the United Nations, who invited Minaj to the UN so they could speak in "more depth about what our administration is doing to protect Christians freedoms all over the world." (@) The rapper boasted about the invitation in a separate post to X, quote-tweeting one of her fans' posts saying she was "the first female rapper in history to receive an invitation to the United Nations," and wrote, "COME ON BARBZ, LETS MAKE AMERICA GAG AGAIN."

Thank you for letting me be your parent and for letting me love you.These words spoken by a mother to her eight-year-old nonbinary child are the embodiment of unwavering parental love. Delivered in the first episode of Love You for You, a new series from KQED spotlighting the relationships between transgender young people and their supportive loved ones, the moment reminds us that loving a child for exactly who they are is a privilege, an opportunity for a beautiful, uplifting life. Related AOC assures trans kids theyre not to blame for anything: You are fine just the way you are This mother makes acceptance sound so simple, so uncomplicated. Perhaps because, for so many people, it is.At LGBTQ Nation, we give a lot of space to the people who are tearing trans kids down. Its pivotal, of course, to track the movements and policies of a hostile administration hell-bent on using trans rights as bait in its quest for supremacy and power. But what gets lost in all that noise are the others, the people who are lifting trans kids up, the ones who feed them and clothe them and love them every day for exactly who they are. Dive deeper every day Join our newsletter for thought-provoking commentary that goes beyond the surface of LGBTQ+ issues Subscribe to our Newsletter today These are the parents who spend the free moments they find between cooking dinner and driving carpools to speak at congressional hearings, march outside of statehouses, and sue their elected officials.They are the ones reading bedtime stories, making dentist appointments, reviewing homework, and meeting swim lesson registration deadlines, all while writing fiery speeches for school board meetings, moving their families across the country for access to basic medical care, and even running for office. They are engaging in court battles, launching organizations, and, perhaps most importantly, fostering loving home environments as the anchors their children need.It doesnt seem all that newsworthy when a parent wakes up in the morning and provides their trans child with basic love and care, but it is critical to remind ourselves that this is indeed happening in thousands of households across the country every day. The accepting parents of trans youth are a force to be reckoned with. Our November Issue celebrates their openness, their warmth, their fervor, and their grit. These unsung heroes must navigate the everyday challenges of parenting while simultaneously contorting themselves into shields so their children can live some semblance of a normal life as the entire country debates their very right to exist.The parents of trans youth know their kids are more than the pronouns they use or the locker rooms in which they change, and they are fighting desperately to help the rest of the world see that, too.Over and over again, we at LGBTQ Nation hear from trans parents that their kids gender identities are the least interesting things about them. So our November Issue lets those who know them best help the rest of us see them for the silly, passionate, talented little people they are. Its easy to get lost in the double-talk and smoke blowing and forget about the real human children behind it all, but their parents never do.We hope this Monthly Issue helps you remember, too, that for every viral story about hate, there are dozens more stories hiding in the shadows that are all about love.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Donald Trump is getting mocked for, according to some people, transparently making up a Democrat who wants men playing womens sports in order to dodge a question about the economy.Can I ask you about the economy? reporter Norah ODonnell said in the interview. Related Trump blames budget crisis on trans people: Democrats want transgender operations for everybody These are 99 to 1 issues! Trump said. And they dont change! I just watched this morning-Mr. President, can I ask you about the economy? ODonnell repeated. Insights for the LGBTQ+ community Subscribe to our briefing for insights into how politics impacts the LGBTQ+ community and more. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Yeah, just one thing, I watched a show this morning where a very well-known Democrat Congressman was fighting like hell for men playing in womens sports. They dont change.Who? ODonnell asked. Trump didnt even pretend to forget and instead refused to answer, as if he suddenly became too polite to name names.I dont want to tell you, he said. Youll be able to check it. Just check your local TV. TRUMP: I watched a show this morning where a very well-known Democrat Congressman was fighting like hell for men playing in women's sports. O'DONNELL: Who was that?TRUMP: I don't want to tell you. You'll be able to check it. Just check your local TV. pic.twitter.com/PDJkGwhTa4 Acyn (@Acyn) November 3, 2025Its not clear who he could have been referring to. There are no Democrats in Congress who support allowing men to play womens sports. Many do support allowing trans women to participate in sports as their gender. Not only did Trump not say that, though, but elected Democrats at the federal level tend not to bring up trans athletes that often in interviews.Moreover, online commenters pointed out that it was out of character for Trump not to name the person he was talking about, leading them to believe he was lying. Like everything he says pic.twitter.com/nNtwnyLXxc Carina (@Carina_Amyth) November 3, 2025And just like that, she moves on. When will media hold him to account in his lies? Thats why he thinks hes the smartest man and everyone else is stupid! THE PPL vs. OLIGARCHS (@boss_bigXY) November 3, 2025It's a secret that even the Internet knows nothing about. pic.twitter.com/U2LtkZdBGj Jimbar99 (@jimbar99) November 3, 2025How the fuck do you not follow up?I dont want to tell you Why would this be a secret? He either doesnt remember because hes in mental decline or he made it up. Neither is good and he should be pressed until he answers. Media is a joke. https://t.co/RlhR4floZV Monkey Chunk (@ChunkMonkeys) November 3, 2025 pic.twitter.com/80XuLHcXK8 jay lauscher (@jaylauscher) November 3, 2025Lets be clear: Trump lied about a Democrat fighting like hell for men in womens sports. When Norah ODonnell asked who, he basically said trust me, broand she just let it slide. Another gutless performance from the media. Too timid to call out a con man in real time. pic.twitter.com/cfLfPdMsCY Russell Drew (@RussOnPolitics) November 3, 2025Trumps brain is like an Etch A Sketch. Every time he shakes his head, the details disappear. Check your local TV sounds like the new MAGA version of trust me, bro. Chetter Beacon for Democracy (@ChetterHub) November 3, 2025There is no fucking way that a "well known Democrat Congressman" said anything remotely close to what Trump is claiming. This is the same narrative that they used in '24. Democrats don't believe this shit but Fox Nation eats it up with a spoon. Eric (@Ericland55) November 3, 2025Which "local TV" station should we check?No matter what the occasion, TACO has to throw in his transphobia. pic.twitter.com/usaMb06Aqc D Villella (@dvillella) November 3, 2025 pic.twitter.com/5c0334V3ln TedCruzSucks. (@TedResist) November 3, 2025Me when I just make shit up. Tracee (@TraceeM) November 3, 2025I don't want to tell you.What hes really saying is I cant tell you since Im just making it up.What hes really thinking is My worshippers will believe this; they believe anything I tell them. The Solutions Party (@_SolutionsParty) November 3, 2025@NorahODonnell Translation: he didn't see a Dem congressman do that on his TV, he probably saw someone accuse Democrats of doing that on Fox or Newsmax or some other magamedia. Why don't you ever push back? TomHB (@TinPotPourri) November 3, 2025Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Welcome to November, Out readers!2025 is blazing past, with Halloween officially in our rear-view windows. That can only mean one thing: it's officially Mariah Carey season!From Challengers' iconic "I TOLD YA" shirt to Connor Ives' "Protect The Dolls" tee (and Mariah Carey's custom jacket with the same phrase) to Loewe and Jonathan Bailey's sexy-as-hell "Drink your milk" shirt, if there's one thing gays love, it's a sexy little t-shirt. Now, Russell Tovey is establishing himself as the king of tees!In February of 2024, Tovey broke the gay internet with his "Take me to an art museum and f*ck me in the bathroom" t-shirt, and now he's back with another!Tovey is back with another instantly iconic t-shirt, causing it to sell out instantly! The Plainclothes star recently attended Lady Gaga's The Mayhem Ball tour, and wore a shirt that had gays going feral!Tovey's latest shirt is a plain white tee with black trimming around the neck and arms, that reads in big, bold letters: "J'adore a Whore," or "I love a whore." Of course, the internet is losing its mind and begging company Arrogant Hypocrite to restock!What's your favorite iconic t-shirt?Keep reading to meet this week's Man Crush Monday and learn about his nipple confidence!- Mey RudeAngel City FC captain Sarah Gorden to trans and intersex players: 'We do support you'Meet the gay songwriter behind 'KPop Demon Hunters' hit 'Golden'Russell Tovey breaks the internet with horny T-shirtsells out in 48hBoots: Kieron Moore dishes on Miles Heizer's drag and Max Parker relationshipThe Netherlands' new Prime Minister is hot, gay & has a sexy Olympian boyfriendHunter McVey strips down to a pair of tight white shorts in sexy new photoshoot30 LGBTQ+ movies & TV shows coming in November 2025 and where to watch them18 Celebs who proudly served 'nipple confidence' on the red carpetVienna unveiled: Your LGBTQ+ guide to Austria's cultural capitalMan Crush MondayNcuti Gatwa and his nipple confidence are our Man Crush Monday this week! Make sure you check out our slideshow of 18 celebs who have proudly shown off their nipples on the red carpet!Get Out / The Advocate in your physical mailbox, too!Get print issues of Out Magazine / The Advocate in the mail for just $9.95 a year!

Charlotte, N.C. may reign in summer with Pride and queer-friendly activities! But when the temperature cools down and the air turns crisp in the Queen City, she reveals another side a queen in her winter crown, radiant with festivals, lights, and seasonal charm.Dive into this seasonal LGBTQ+ travel guide below and consider this your invitation to Charlottes winter runway: a city draped in lights, skating under the stars, arts that sing, shops that shimmer, and flavors as diverse as our LGBTQ+ community itself. This isnt the Charlotte of summer Pride floats this is Charlotte reinvented for winter, and darling, she sparkles!Sparkle and glow with Charlottes winter festivals!Charlottes holiday season begins with a triumvirate of winter festivals that rival any Pride floats in their sheer spectacle. CarowindsPhoto Courtesy of Charlotte Regional Visitors AuthorityCarowinds may be known for its 14 roller coasters, but come WinterFest, the real ups and downs are deciding which of the parks 60-plus rides to skip, so you dont spill your cocoa while wandering through more than 5 million lights. From late November through early January, the entire 400-acre amusement park becomes a holiday runway themed lands, nightly tree lightings, and even an artisan market for last-minute gifts that scream thoughtful, but still chic. Light the Knights, Truist FieldPhoto Courtesy of Charlotte Regional Visitors AuthorityOver at Light the Knights at Truist Field, baseball takes a back seat to snow tubing, skating rinks, and a tunnel of lights that practically begs for an Instagram story. Mid-November to early January, the stadium swaps peanuts and Cracker Jack for mulled wine and shiny dcor. Holiday vendors line the concourse, offering seasonal treats and handmade goods. Lets be real: its the one time of year when sliding into home plate comes with a snow tube. And if you think drag queens are the only ones who know how to do over-the-top, meet Speedway Christmas at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord. From November 21 to January 4, the track turns into a four-mile catwalk of more than 5 million light displays synced to holiday music. On select nights, the infield hosts a Christmas Village complete with an ice maze, local vendors, Santa photo opportunities, and holiday movies projected on the Speedways massive screen. Its the closest thing to driving through a snow globe without having to parallel park in one. Game on, Charlotte!In Charlotte, winter isnt about hibernation; its about layering up and leaning in. The Whitewater Center, best known for rafting and kayaking in summer, becomes a frosty wonderland from mid-November through mid-February. Its upper pond freezes into a 24,000-square-foot ice rink, divided into zones for free-skating, ice trails that weave through glowing trees, and even spaces for pond hockey and curling. Add in the Lights Trail a wooded walking path illuminated with artful light installations and the whole place feels like stepping into a storybook. Just 20 minutes from Uptown, its the kind of date night where you can skip the small talk and go straight to holding hands under the stars. Carolina PanthersPhoto Courtesy of Charlotte Regional Visitors AuthorityOf course, the citys professional sports teams also keep the adrenaline pumping. The Carolina Panthers fuel fall weekends with NFL drama at Bank of America Stadium, while the Charlotte Hornets keep Spectrum Center buzzing with NBA action through the winter. Whether youre there for the score, the halftime show, or just the camaraderie, game days in Charlotte offer the kind of big-energy crowd experience thats perfect for LGBTQ+ travelers looking to plug into the citys community pride. Charlotte HornetsPhoto Courtesy of Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority Stages, glitter, symphonies, and culture in full bloom!When the curtain rises in Charlotte during the holidays, it reveals a cultural calendar that rivals Broadway only here, the sequins and Southern charm come at no extra cost. NutcrackerPhoto Courtesy of Taylor Jones for Charlotte Regional Visitors AuthorityAt Belk Theater, the Charlotte Ballets Nutcracker delivers December elegance in spades. Tchaikovskys iconic score swells as dancers in sparkling costumes pirouette across the stage, bringing to life snowflakes, toy soldiers, and the Sugar Plum Fairy. Its a tradition locals swear by, and for queer travelers, theres something affirming in watching timeless artistry take center stage in a city where ballet feels just as much a part of the holiday season as drag brunch. Tickets tend to sell out, so get your tickets today for this annual spectacle HERE. Charlotte Ballet's NutcrackerPhoto Courtesy of Peter Zay for Charlotte Regional Visitors AuthorityMeanwhile, for three magical nights in December, the Charlotte Symphonys Holiday Pops: A Carolina Christmas fills Knight Theater with festive energy that goes far beyond carols. The program combines orchestral favorites with holiday classics, sometimes joined by guest vocalists or choirs. One year its a jazz-infused rendition of Jingle Bells, the next its a gospel choir raising the roof. The vibe is joyful, communal, and perfect for anyone who loves their holidays with a side of surprise. Cirque de SoleilPhoto Courtesy of Charlotte Regional Visitors AuthorityFor travelers craving whimsy, Cirque du Soleils touring holiday show Twas the Night Before arrives at Ovens Auditorium, flipping holiday nostalgia upside down (literally). Acrobats soar through the air, contortionists twist into candy-cane shapes, and set pieces dazzle with immersive design. Its a spectacle that feels tailor-made for audiences who love their holidays with equal parts wonder and camp. Cirque de SoleilPhoto Courtesy of Charlotte Regional Visitors AuthorityAnd then, of course, theres the queer crown jewel: The Jinkx & Dela Holiday Show at Booth Playhouse. Jinkx Monsoon, fresh from conquering Broadway in the Tony-winning Oh Mary!, teams up with best friend and fellow drag icon BenDeLaCreme for a holiday spectacle that blends biting satire with campy humor and just enough heart to make you misty-eyed between laughs.Retail therapy, queen style.Holiday shopping in Charlotte is a full-spectrum experience, offering both big-name glamour and quirky local charm.At SouthPark Mall, the states largest shopping center, luxury takes the spotlight. Home to high-end names like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Burberry, SouthPark offers the kind of polished experience that makes you want to dress up just to browse. Its where you go when your holiday shopping list demands something timeless or when you want to treat yourself to a new Charlotte souvenir that happens to come in the form of Prada.But not all gifts come with a designer logo. The Southern Christmas Show, held each November at Park Expo and Conference Center, turns holiday shopping into a festival. Hundreds of vendors line aisles filled with handmade ornaments, seasonal dcor, artisan foods, and crafts. Its like stepping into Santas workshop, if Santa was a stylish Southerner with an eye for kitsch.For something more intimate and inclusive, Camp North End offers markets that buzz with creative energy, proving Charlotte can do industrial chic in full holiday style. Once a Ford factory and military depot, the 76-acre campus is now a creative hub of maker shops, art studios, bars, and event spaces. In winter, the Boileryard district sets the stage for a seasonal ice rink framed by historic brick walls, colorful murals, and strings of lights. Mistletoe Market, Camp North End Photo Courtesy of Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority There, the Vintage Charlotte (VTGCLT) Pop, an annual holiday pop-up shop, is beloved for curated rare finds and indie goods, while the Mistletoe Market highlights local artisans, handmade gifts, and festive treats. Imagine sipping a craft latte as you pick out a one-of-a-kind gift from a queer maker at this holiday market with plenty of Southern charm!Seasons eatings!Charlottes dining scene is where Southern comfort, global flavors, and seasonal creativity collide and in winter, every plate feels like a hug. Alexander Michael'sPhoto Courtesy of Charlotte Regional Visitors AuthorityIn historic Fourth Ward, Alexander Michael's has been a cozy staple since 1983. Housed in a century-old building, the restaurant is all about hearty dishes and neighborhood warmth. Think blackened chicken breast sandwiches, spicy crab soup, and comfort classics that stick with you longer than a holiday playlist. Lang VanPhoto Courtesy of Charlotte Regional Visitors AuthorityOn the other side of town in East Charlotte, Lang Van has been serving the best Vietnamese cuisine the city has to offer for 25 years. Its steaming bowls of pho, crispy spring rolls, umami-rich hot pots, and other rare, authentic Vietnamese finds are exactly what you crave when the nights get long and cold.If youre craving something adventurous, COUNTER- transforms dinner into theater with multi-course, seasonally shifting menus that blur the line between meal and performance. Its wine program elevates the experience, spotlighting female, LGBTQ+, and minority winemakers, while a carefully curated non-alcoholic pairing ensures every guest can savor the artistry.But when you want something intimate yet bold, step into LOstrica, tucked into Charlottes Montford neighborhood, where award-winning chefs Eric Ferguson and Cat Carter craft tasting menus, driven by hyper-seasonal Carolina produce and global influences. Their bar and patio serve la carte snacks, cocktails, and oysters (always on the menu), while a Sunday-only Supper menu offers creative, themed dining in a more relaxed setting. Reservation is always recommended thats where the magic begins. SupperlandPhoto Courtesy of Charlotte Regional Visitors AuthorityAnd no holiday season is complete without a cocktail (or three). Down in Supperland's secret speakeasy a moody hideaway beneath the church-turned-restaurant in Plaza Midwood the drinks are inventive and perfectly seasonal. Across town in South End, Backstage Lounge embraces the pop-up holiday bar trend with themed dcor and Instagram-ready cocktails. Between the twinkling lights and spiced concoctions, these bars make it clear: in Charlotte, even your glass gets dressed for the season.Charlotte in fall and winter is more than just an itinerary. Its skating hand-in-hand under twinkling lights, immersing yourselves in holiday songs at the symphony, buying that perfect handmade ornament at a queer-friendly market, and raising a glass to drag queens who make the season shine brighter.For LGBTQ+ travelers, Charlottes cold-weather season offers more than a reason to visit it offers a reason to stay. Because if summer is when the Queen City wears her rainbow crown, then fall and winter are when she wears her crown of lights, glitter, and snowflakes. And like any true queen, she knows exactly how to werrrrrrrrrrk it!Plan your seasonal getaway at CharlottesGotALot.com!

Cameron Cole, who won the U.K.s Big Brother in 2018, has reported that his birthday celebrations were tainted by homophobic attacks that left him with a black eye and multiple facial wounds.I had a beautiful birthday surrounded by love, yet still came face-to-face with people who chose hate and violence! Cole posted to his Instagram over the weekend. It made me feel vulnerable in a way no one should ever have to feel, especially not for just existing and being me. Related Anti-LGBTQ+ hate is rising in Western nations both on & offline Alongside pictures of his injuries, Cole explained what had happened while he was out celebrating his birthday. They targeted me with homophobia and slurs, and later attacked me when I was alone. He also thanked his friend CARZ for taking care of him after the assault. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cameron Cole (@ccole_99) Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Cole was a competitor on the 2018 season of the U.K.s Big Brother and became the youngest contestant to win at just 19 years old. From his time in the public eye, hes no stranger to homophobic abuse. While his coming-out on the TV show was seen as a touching moment for many, he received abuse both online and on the street in the months that followed it.In 2019, he recounted the vile social media messages he received, the anonymous phone calls saying he should take his own life, and his experiences of homophobic slurs being shouted at him in the street. Both in his original Instagram post and in a follow-up post the following day, in which he thanked people for their support, Cole used his experience to highlight the challenges that LGBTQ+ people and other minorities face in Britain.This isnt just about me, or just about the LGBTQ+ community, he said in his first post. Its about every minority, every marginalised voice, everyone who has been told they dont belong, the politics, the government, the people, they want to divide us but they will not win.He reiterated the idea in his second post: I wish I could say this kind of experience is rare. It should be. It is not. And that breaks my heart. To anyone who has gone through something like this, recently or in the past, I am sorry. You did not deserve it. None of us did. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cameron Cole (@ccole_99) Reports of hate crimes in the United Kingdom have more than tripled since 2012/13. Statistics show a peak for the reporting year 2021/22 with a drop off in the two years following, but are still higher than they were before the peak.While 70% of reported hate crimes are marked as being racially motivated in the U.K., Stop Hate UK notes that anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes have followed a similar trajectory with gender identity and sexual orientation being the third most common motive for a hate crime. They also highlight that many hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community are not reported through official channels. Related The Trump Virus is spreading around the globe. Especially in the UK. Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Representative Sarah McBride (D-DE) often wonders if her Republican colleagues forget that she has parents. Would her fellow elected officials still ferociously and publicly demean her if they remembered that the two people who love her more than anything in the world had to hear the insults, too? Its easier for them to dehumanize her than to confront the real person behind the political pawn they have reduced her to, she told LGBTQ Nation. Its why she thinks the same legislators who misgender her and call her slurs on the House floor avoid eye contact when they cross paths with her in Capitol hallways.Engaging with her, she explained, would remind them that not only am I a person, but by extension, I am a person with parents, who hurt when they see and when they read what some of my colleagues are saying and doing to me.Rep. McBride knew running for Congress would mean inviting more discrimination into her life, but she could not have predicted how much. Insights for the LGBTQ+ community Subscribe to our briefing for insights into how politics impacts the LGBTQ+ community and more. Subscribe to our Newsletter today I dont think I anticipated entering Congress not only in a Republican trifecta with Donald Trump as president, but after an election where hundreds of millions of dollars would have been specifically spent on trans issues, and every conceivable issue in some way by the Republicans would seem to be brought back to trans issues.It used to be easier to protect her mom and dad from the transphobia she has long endured as a prominent figure in Delaware politics, but now that the GOP regularly turns its hatred of her into front-page news, hiding it is no longer possible Its been hard for me to watch my parents have to grapple with that hate, she said, for it to essentially go from zero to one hundred since I had shielded them from so much of it before. Related Sarah McBride warns Americans not to let the GOP distract them with anti-trans attacks Its been an emotional whirlwind for her parents, too. David and Sally McBride worry every day for their daughters safety. But at the same time, they are filled with pride as they watch her accomplish her dreams. What I try to say to myself and its not easy and I worry about her every day but the role model that she is to other transgender people, kids and adults, is amazing, Sally told LGBTQ Nation.My pride in Sarah, David added, includes the fact that she has the courage to do what shes doing.Rep. McBride said her parents support has been critical to enduring the chaos. Her Democratic colleagues often ask her how she can keep doing this work, and her number one answer is her family.I lucked out in the parent lottery, she said. My parents remain two of my best friends The love and support that I have from my family make it all bearable. Unconditional love Sarah McBride celebrates with her parents (left) and her brother (right) after winning the Democratic primary for U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. | Damian Giletto/Delaware News Journal / USA TODAY NETWORKSally and David always agreed that the first rule of parenting is unconditional love. So when, in 2011, their then-21-year-old daughter told them she was trans, there was no question they would figure out how to support her.But that didnt make it easy.Unconditional love didnt stifle their waves of grief as they mourned the loss of the child they thought they had. It didnt help them understand why she couldnt just keep it all inside, and it didnt stop an overwhelming sense of dread from taking root, warning them that somehow, this meant their lives were over.Of course, now they know that could not have been further from the truth. For the next decade and a half, the McBrides would watch their daughter blaze a series of trails to ultimately become the countrys first out trans member of Congress. But on that day in 2011, when Rep. McBride first told her parents who she was, it felt impossible to envision a successful life for their daughter.In short, they were scared. The couple doesnt shy away from these darker moments on their journey to becoming the fervent activists they are today. They want other parents of trans youth to know that its okay to experience a full range of emotions when their children come out. Acceptance, they explained, can coincide with heartache; support and unease dont have to be mutually exclusive.Dont expect perfection from yourself, David said. A lot of people, once they react a certain way, they dont think they can change. Its almost like they think, Oh, if I change now, Im going to be admitting I did something wrong.Sally said that when Rep. McBride first came out, she fell to the floor. I thought I was losing a child. I think its important for parents to see that can be a reaction Youre just expressing how you feel. But in the long run, the acceptance is going to make your child happier and healthier.Studies indeed show that suicidality significantly decreases for trans and nonbinary young people who are affirmed by loved ones. David learned this fact while consulting Google on the same day he learned his daughter was trans, and he knew right away it meant hed be accepting even if he didnt yet know what that looked like.He has since met many trans young people who have been disowned by their families, and he just cant wrap his head around it.Why in the world would anyone want this outcome of being estranged from their own children? he said. How could there ever be a God that would want children and parents to be estranged? Grace & transformation Sally McBride, mother of Democratic candidate for state senate Sarah McBride, shows off her protective mask at the polling location at Highlands Elementary on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020. | Jerry Habraken via Imagn Content Services, LLCRep. McBride emphasized that theres an important distinction between well-intentioned people doing their best and those who are committed to rejection and hate.At no point would I ever have classified my parents as not accepting, she said. The difficult conversations we had and the reactions they had were not coming from a place of rejection or hatred. They were coming from a place of fear, and that fear was connected to their love for me.But just as knowing theyd accept their daughter didnt make it easy for David and Sally, knowing her parents would eventually come around didnt make it any less painful to help them get there.It was hard to watch them experience devastation, Rep. McBride said. It was hard to answer their many, many questions, most of which she said centered around literally explaining what it means to be transgender and some of which would probably be categorized as politically incorrect. Getting to a place of mutual understanding required a level of grace between all three of us, she said, but that grace would actually quicken our journey. In allowing her parents that grace, she said she saw them undergo the most beautiful transformation.I saw my parents go from crawling into my bed the next morning, crying, begging me not to come out to anyone else to being some of the fiercest, most compassionate, most dedicated, not only parents, but advocates for dignity and equality that I know. Related Trans Rep. Sarah McBride blasts Trumps transphobic policies as appalling, cynical, & wasteful It probably would have gotten there no matter what, but that transformation was without question facilitated, at least in speed, by our capacity as a family to just have these difficult conversations.This experience, she said, has helped shape her more patient approach to advocacy today, an approach that has earned the praise of some and angered others who believe shes not pushing back hard enough against intolerance. But Rep. McBride has stood firm in her conviction that leaders in the movement for equality must be less absolutist and more willing to guide public opinion in the right direction.If I had responded to my parents with, How dare you ask these questions? or Youre a bigot for making these comments or It doesnt matter, just get over it and accept me, I dont know that our journey would have been the same, she said. If we treat everyone who is not where we want them to be in their journey to understanding the full diversity of humanity as all committed to hatred, to rejection, to prejudice, then we are shooting ourselves in the foot in our capacity to foster change.Those with good intentions who are just scared of the unknown can be persuaded, she said, as long as we are willing to walk with them on this journey in the same way that I had the chance to walk with my parents.She believes most Americans are like her mom and dad: Good people with good intentions and good hearts.People who deserve the chance to grow. The costs of crueltyFrom left, Dave and Sally McBride, parents of candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives Sen. Sarah McBride, sit with their dog Scout in the sunroom of their home in Wilmington, Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024. | Benjamin Chambers/Delaware News Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn ImagesNot everyone, of course, has good intentions. Rep. McBrides historic entrance into Congress has coincided with one of the most vitriolic moments in trans history. As the Republican Party slides further into authoritarianism, trans people even kids have become the enemy around which to rally its base and distract the American public from its unconstitutional power grabs.The party has ushered in an age in which leaders can degrade trans people for political clout, an age in which hateful language that may have once disqualified someone from even running for office can now help elevate them to even more prominent roles. Related The GOPs obsession with Congress first trans member has a much uglier purpose With the support of other anti-LGBTQ+ colleagues like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), anti-trans Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) made herself a household name by waging a vicious war against Rep. McBride before she was even sworn in, demanding trans women be barred from using womens restrooms at the Capitol in anticipation of her tenure.As Maces hate campaign gained more attention, her rhetoric grew more vile. Stooping to a level of cruelty that was once unimaginable from the mouth of a contemporary elected official, she posted hundreds of hateful comments about McBride, repeatedly misgendering and dehumanizing her, and at one point even started selling t-shirts to promote her bathroom ban. In one social media post, she bluntly declared herself a proud transphobe. Mace is now running for governor of South Carolina with her anti-trans views as the crux of her campaign. As painful as it all is, Sally and David are working hard to see past the insults and focus on the difference their daughter is making.[Trans people] finally have a seat at the table, Sally said. And a lot of these congresspeople have never met a trans person, so here is someone who is a great communicator and really cares about her constituents. The genuineness she feels, the love she feels, wanting to do the best for her constituents is real, and its obvious.Rep. McBride said her parents have not only given her crucial emotional support but also helped her navigate the moment intellectually. We have never had in this country a first enter Congress when the identity that makes them a first is at the center of political controversy and the district that they represent is not predominantly or significantly made up of that identity, she explained.My parents have been really critical partners in thinking through how to navigate his moment with strategy, with discipline, with compassion, and with principle in really difficult waters. She has, for example, spoken about the thought process behind her decision to comply with the GOPs anti-trans bathroom ban at the Capitol, emphasizing that she refuses to let Republicans distract her from serving her constituents. Every single time we hear them say the word trans, look what theyre doing with their right hand, she told Face the Nation last year. Look at what theyre doing to pick the pocket of American workers, to fleece seniors by privatizing Social Security and Medicare. Look what theyre doing, undermining workers. Every bit of time and energy that is used to divert the attention of federal government to go after trans people is time and energy that is not focused on addressing the cost of living for our constituents. There is a real cost for the American worker every time they focus on this. The obvious answerThen-State Sen.-elect Sarah McBride stands for a portrait in front of Legislative Hall in Dover on Monday, Jan. 11, 2021. McBride will be sworn into office Tuesday, Jan. 12. | Jerry Habraken/Delaware News Journal / USA TODAY NETWORKWhen Rep. McBride first came out, David and Sally knew the only way their friends, family, and colleagues would embrace her was if they modeled what acceptance looks like. They began meeting with folks in small groups. At that time, not many people had even heard the word transgender, and it was up to them to make sure those around them understood what it meant.We knew there were going to be misconceptions and stereotypes, Sally said. We wanted to be able to control the dialogue More than anything, I wanted [my friends] to ask me questions so I could dissolve the stereotypes, and thats exactly what I did. Eventually, Sally even started a support group for the parents of trans youth.It was important to show that we were proud of our daughter, how much courage it took to come out, and that we will do anything to make sure that shes safe and happy.David said its remarkable how much more knowledgeable parents are today than he was back then.I needed to understand intellectually, he explained. The problem I had with the whole transgender concept was I had been raised largely by the womens liberation movement to believe there are no differences between men and women other than anatomy, and that any other psychological differences or personality characteristics were socially imprinted. If that were true, I didnt understand what was happening or why it was happening. Related Sarah McBride slams cruel colleagues for being too immature to treat trans folks well In 2017, he had an ah-ha moment while watching Katie Courics documentary Gender Revolution, which spoke about intersex kids whose parents randomly selected a gender for them as infants and raised them as such. Those children, to a much higher extent than the general population, would come out and say you got it wrong, he learned, which meant there had to be something more than socialization or anatomy that was distinguishing gender.More parents today seem to have already grasped this concept, he said. Due to the immense growth in visibility of trans people, even parents experiencing challenges in embracing their childs identity are likely approaching it with a stronger foundation of knowledge and understanding than they would have a few decades ago. Still, none were likely prepared to be thrust onto the front lines of a national war against their childrens existence, forced to march in front of statehouses, make impassioned pleas to school boards to let their kids pee in peace, drive hours across state lines for routine doctors appointments, and in some cases, flee the country. But seemingly against all odds, the McBride family has hope.In the long run, most people are compassionate and have empathy, David said, and that will bear out. I hope things are at their worst right now, and they will get better.Progress often involves two steps forward and one step back, Rep. McBride said, acknowledging that right now we are in a major step back.But hopelessness, she said, is the greatest thing we can give the forces of hate in this moment.All three McBrides agreed that one of the most important things parents can do for their trans children right now is hold onto that hope for a better future.If you are a parent today, you remember a time when marriage bans were passing around the country, said Rep. McBride, and you are now raising a child at a time when something that seemed so impossible just 20 years ago that it was almost incomprehensible is now a reality.For those still figuring out how best to help their trans kids through this time, David put it simply: The obvious answer, he said, is to love them.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Mary Beth Barone is taking her comedic skills to Netflix. The Overcompensating star and comedian is releasing her first hour-long special called Galaxy Brain on the streamer. Ky Newman will direct, and the special will tape at the New York University Skirball Center on March 19, reports Deadline.This, however, is not Barone's first comedy special; she self-released a 40-minute set called Thought Provoking to YouTube in 2024, not long before the release of Overcompensating. That hit 2025 Prime Video series catapulted her and series creator Benito Skinner into mainstream success, alongside their fellow queer castmates Owen Thiele, Wally Baram, and Holmes all of whom appeared on the 2025 Out100 list. The show centers on a group of young adults at the fictional Yates University, navigating the growing pains of college life.Overcompensating was recently renewed for a second season, but it's unclear when the show will make its official return. In the meantime, the Barone and Skinner will continue to host their popular podcast Ride.When the second season was announced, Skinner sent a statement to Variety that said, "I have been so overwhelmed by the insane response to the show, and feel so damn lucky to go back to Yates University with Amazon MGM Studios, A24, Strong Baby, and this legendary cast for Season 2!! PLAY SUPER BASS :)."

As the closely watched New York City mayoral election approaches, frontrunner Zohran Mamdani embarked on a Saturday night campaign club crawl that included two queer events.The New York State Assembly member and self-described Democratic Socialist took the stage at Brooklyn nightclub Elsewhere on Saturday night for a surprise appearance at queer art collective Papi Juices Halloween event. Related Zohran Mamdani honors trans activist Sylvia Rivera, says NYC will be a pro-trans sanctuary city I just want to say such a deep thank you to Papi Juice for creating a space for queer and trans New Yorkers, Mamdani said as the crowd cheered. In a city where so much is about struggle, its so important to have a space for joy.In a video from the event posted to Papi Juices Instagram stories, Mamdani reminded the crowd to head to the polls on Tuesday and closed his remarks by noting that it was an honor to be the first mayoral candidate to ever be at Papi Juice! Insights for the LGBTQ+ community Subscribe to our briefing for insights into how politics impacts the LGBTQ+ community and more. Subscribe to our Newsletter today The concept of Zohran Mamdani being a special guest at the Papi Juice Halloween party pic.twitter.com/r49C2wSWgM pb&jeremy (@Pisces_Prince_) November 2, 2025Zohran Mamdani was at Papi Juice last night.If this man doesnt win on Tuesday pic.twitter.com/7VS8qc1CwR Shea Jordan Smith (@shea_jordan) November 2, 2025In a Sunday X post, Mamdani spokesperson Dora Pekec noted that the Assemblyman made stops at six Brooklyn clubs and bars on Saturday night. According to Rouge DNC, those stops included Gabriela, Caribbean Social Club, Damballa, and queer club Mood Ring in addition to Papi Juice.As influencer Matt Bernstein noted in an X post featuring a clip from Mamdanis appearance at Mood Ring, the club crawl stretched into the early hours of Sunday morning.So, its 1am and Zohran just showed up at a gay bar, Bernstein wrote.Are we ready to beat Andrew Cuomo? Are we ready to win a city we can afford? Are we ready to make history? Mamdani asked the crowd from Mood Rings DJ booth in Bernsteins clip. so its 1am and zohran just showed up at the gay bar pic.twitter.com/tc8hZRPdKG matt (@mattxiv) November 2, 2025As Mamdani alluded, should he win Tuesdays election, he would become New York Citys first Muslim mayor. Polls have consistently shown him with a sizable lead over Cuomo, who opted to stay in the races as an Independent after being trounced by Mamdani in this summers Democratic primary. As Fox 5 New York notes, recent polls show him with a double-digit lead over Cuomo, with Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa trailing far behind both.Mamdani also stopped by the East Villages Parkside Lounge on October 25 for one of lesbian party Meow Mixs 30th anniversary celebrations alongside Cynthia Nixon and cabaret performer Justin Vivian Bond. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Justin Vivian Bond (@mxviv)While Mamdanis campaign has focused primarily on making New York City more affordable, he has also pledged to spend $57 million on medical centers that provide gender-affirming care and $8 million more to develop new and broader resources. He has vowed to expand and protect gender-affirming care and create an Office of LGBTQIA+ affairs. In March, he attended a Trans Day of Visibility rally, and in May, he held a trans community town hall. In a recent ad, he honored transgender activist Sylvia Rivera and promised to deploy hundreds of lawyers to fight the presidents anti-trans attacks and make New York City a sanctuary city for trans people.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Citing Donald Trumps massive unpopularity, CNN chief data analyst Harry Enten predicted Democrats will have a very good day in tomorrows elections, which include the highly charged New Jersey and Virginia gubernatorial races and the New York City mayoral election. I mean, look, Donald Trump is a huge, huge drag in all these races, Enten said. Look at his net popularity ratings in New Jersey. Hes 11 points underwater. Virginia, 14 points underwater. Not much of a big surprise in New York [City], hes 35 points underwater. And I will note nationally in my aggregate of polls, hes about 13 points underwater. And in our CNN poll, hes way below that, which looks a lot like New Jersey, a lot like Virginia. Related This is how its done! Mamdanis Fox News appearance praised as model for Democrats He said the results of these races could be huge bellwethers for midterm elections next year and how the president will impact them. He is a huge, huge drag across the board, Enten emphasized again.The likely Democratic victories tomorrow are significant, he explained, because in the past ninety years, when Democrats sweep the New York City mayor, the New Jersey governor, and the Virginia governor, they have won the U.S. House five out of five times.And when were in this national polarized environment and Donald Trump is as unpopular as he is, I think that history is likely to hold, Enten said. If, in fact, Democrats do sweep tomorrow, which at this point looks more likely than not.

The internet cannot get enough of a mom on Reddit who asked for help renaming her trans daughter. The mom said the eighteen-year-old asked her mom to select a name because she still wants to be named by her mama. I melted, the mom wrote on the subreddit Name Nerds. Related Hearts are melting at this surprise proposal in the middle of a trans wrestling match She said she and her husband have been 100% supportive and that shes excited to have another girl in the house since her daughter has three brothers. The mom asked fellow Reddit users for help, sharing her daughters parameters, their familys ancestry, and the names of her other children. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Shes incredibly intelligent, bookish, shy but spunky, and a total sweetheart, the mom gushed. Gorgeous, curly red hair and freckles. The post garnered almost three thousand responses. While many suggested names, others dropped in to praise the heartwarming situation.I instantly teared up when I read this, one commenter wrote. You are really doing something right that your daughter is choosing to invite you so intimately into this process. I have a handful of friends who are transgender with various degrees of support from their families, but none that felt like their parents were so reaffirming and supportive of who they are that it felt right that they still received their name from them. Ugh, my whole heart is so happy reading this! Another person called the post so f**king wholesome and a beautiful bonding opportunity. Dont have name suggestions yet but wanted to quickly say I love this post and wish you the best of luck finding a beautiful name, a third commenter said. A fourth added, Im also just really looking to get in here and tell you how happy this made me. You all sound just lovely and I wish you nothing but joy.Another person said they were very pregnant and that the post made them sob. This speaks so much to your relationship and how much she loves and values you. Im sorry I dont have an actual suggestion, I just wanted to share that moms (and people) like you are so very needed in the world and this makes me so happy. The mom also posted afollow-upto let folks know which name she chose. I am the incredibly proud mama of Esther Miriam! she wrote. I absolutely love it, and so does she. Essie May evolved as a nickname from her father overnight, and it made me fall in love even more Esther also has immense meaning to us as Jews, and I can absolutely say that 2006 me wouldve chosen it. She also thanked those who commented with suggestions. The love far outweighed the hate, and we were absolutely awestruck by the support.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Vinnie Hacker is giving his fans what they want.After receiving a lap dance from Troye Sivan on the SWEAT Tour last year, the bisexual influencer and model is now stripping down in a new spread for Cero Magazine.The gorgeous photos naturally made the rounds on social media and fans were quick to reply with hilarious and thirsty reactions. Check out the highlights below! (@) (@) (@) (@) (@) (@)

Jonathan Bennett says "99 percent of the cast" of Mean Girls is up for a potential sequel and he's got plot ideas!Bennett, the Gay King of Christmas, was on the I've Never Said This Before podcast with host Tommy DiDario when he was asked about a potential sequel to the 2024 classic comedy Mean Girls, written by Tina Fey.Having played high school hunk Aaron Samuels in the first film, Bennett was asked if he'd like his character to be gay in a sequel. But the actor said he'd rather keep the story consistent."I think Aaron would be straight," Bennett replied, "because you wouldn't go and change the narrative of Aaron Samuels because Jonathan Bennett is gay. You keep the narrative of Aaron Samuels because that's the story." See on Instagram "I know that everyone wants to," Bennett said about the overall status of the sequel. "I know that 99 percent of the cast is like, 'Let's go!'"Bennett also added that he loves that so many cast members from the original have come out. Other than Bennett, Daniel Franzese, who played Damien, and Rajiv Surendra, who played Kevin G, have also come out."First of all, how weird is this: Almost all the guys from Mean Girls are gay. And Mean Girls is one of the gayest cult classic movies of all time. So let's think about that. What came first, the gay or the Mean Girls?"Bennett also teased his own idea for a sequel that features his character as a high school teacher dealing with the mean girls who are now mean moms."The girls are grown up, you know, have their own kids, and now their daughters are coming to the school, and it's managing the parents with the kids in high school," he says."And you could have a storyline for all the parents, who are millennials, that are the current fans of the movie that grew up with it. So they're going to be attached to Lacey, Amanda, me that," he continues. "And then you have the kids who are the new batch for their kids to be watching, so they can identify with those kids. The parents identify with their OG cast. I mean, Tina, write it. I ain't getting any younger, sweetie."While Bennett wants Samuels to remain straight in a sequel, lesbian actress Rene Rapp, who played Regina George on Broadway and in the 2024 remake, says that she fully believes her character is "absolutely, absolutely gay. That woman is a lesbian."

Car accidents are already tough and chaotic. However, LGBTQ+ drivers may also experience additional layers of fear and stress in their driving. Common fears may include being misgendered or subjected to an attack or hateful comment about their identity. Below are four rights to remember after youve had an accident.Protect Your Medical Privacy and Use of Your Chosen NameWhen you have been in an accident or have sought medical attention, medical personnel, police officers, and insurance adjusters may ask for personal identification and medical history forms. You have the right to use the name and gender identity of your choice for any non-legal documents, and to identify yourself. HIPAA protects your health and medical data. This includes your name and pronouns. If a medical, law enforcement, or insurance person identifies you by another name, all you have to do is correct them. You may also bring it up with a patient advocate if one has been assigned.Note Any Instances Of Bias Or HarassmentUnfortunately discrimination can arise during traffic stops or when filing an accident report. If you experience biased language, are harassed, or are denied service based on your identity, document it as soon as possible.Write down:The names and badge numbers of the responding officers or paramedicsThe time, location, and nature of the encounterAny witnesses who can verify what occurredIf possible, audio or video record the experience. It is easier to report bias later when you have proof. In serious instances, the experience may lead to a civil rights complaint.Deal with Your Insurers CautiouslyInsurance reps often sound warm and caring, but they are trying to minimize their companys payout. LGBTQ+ drivers, and more so transgender or nonbinary drivers, have experienced subtle discrimination when insurance reps question medical treatments or emotional distress compensation.When sharing details about the accident, focus on the facts. Do not disclose anything unconnected to the incident or speculate about fault. Think twice before discussing your name or relationship with the other vehicle operator unless that information is directly relevant to your legal claim.If you need assistance, consult a qualified car accident attorney such as West Coast Trial Lawyers who has knowledge in the area of personal injury law and the privacy needs of LGBTQ+ clients.If the Other Driver Is Uninsured Know Your OptionsBeing hit by an underinsured or uninsured vehicle may create additional obstacles in recovery. Nonetheless, it may be possible for you to get coverage on your expenses related to medical bills, vehicle damage, and emotional distress from your own policy. If your own insurance company is denying you coverage or delaying your reimbursements, you should meet with an attorney. Find one that specializes in underinsured or uninsured claims.EndnoteIf you are an LGBTQ+ driver, you have legal rights just as other drivers do. After an accident, you deserve dignity and to be treated with respect. Knowing how to hold onto your own identity, document your experience, and get compensated will help you heal physically, financially, and emotionally.The post 4 Rights LGBTQ+ Drivers Should Know After an Accident appeared first on LGBTQ and ALL.

As we head into the end of the year 2025, its a time to reflect on the things that matter most. What brought us joy? What challenges did we face? How did we make the world a better place? But most importantly, who are the hottest living daddies?Thankfully, the good folks of @archivedilfs, as they do every year, are at it againdoing the work, doing the science, and doing the gay internet a solid. They created the list, collected the votes, and crunched the numbers, and the results are in. Here are the top 10 sexiest daddies, according to the internet, in ascending order, of course.10. Sebastian Stan (@) Sebastian Stan snagged the number 10 spot! From super superhero era to daddy era, that is a trajectory we can get behind9. Tom Hiddleston (@) Hes a bisexual god on the big screen and the number 9 daddy of the year on the internet. Not too bad, Tom Hiddleston.8. Gerard Way (@) That an emo daddy made this list this year makes so much sense. My Chemical Romance singer Gerard Way is number 8.7. Hugh Dancy (@) Yeah, were not over Hannibal either. Actor Hugh Dancy is number 7.6. David Corenswet (@) Its a bird, it's a plane, it's a... daddy? OK, we might be stretching the definition here a bit, but, you know what, David Corenswet is such a hunk, he belongs on any list5. Oscar Isaac (@) OK, now were talking! Oscar Isaac is absolutely daddy. Last year, he was number 2 on the list, but 5 is still a highly respectable spot!4. David Tennant (@) Both a daddy and an excellent dad, we love that David Tennant keeps making the list. The time lord moved back one slot from 3 to 4 this year, but really, whos counting?3. Jensen Ackles (@) Supernaturally hot, Jensen Ackles earned his top spot. The Boys actor leapt from number 8 to number 3, and we love to see it.2. Mads Mikkelsen (@) Mads Mikkelsen is climbing the charts; last year, he was the number 4 DILF, and now hes just short of the crown. Will 2026 be his year?1. Pedro Pascal (@) Pedro Pascal remains unbeatable. The Strange Way of Life star held onto his spot for another year. Yes, daddy!Looking at this list, you may be wondering how the folks at @archivedilfs created it, and thankfully, they shared the methodology."All the top DILFs 2025 names rankings are from nearly 35,000 votes cast between October 1st and 17th. The names outside the top 100 ranked by Google Forms were counted and ranked using Python," they shared on X. "Voting was limited to one vote by email and voters could choose more than one DILF," they also shared.They also shared the complete list of 214 nominees along with their vote counts, which is how we know there were some surprising results. For instance, Jonathan Bailey landed the 25th spot with 2,429 votes. Colman Domingo fell just out of the top 25, earning the 28th spot with 2,238 votes. Alexander Skarsgrd was 31 (though we would be shocked not to see him shoot up the list next year after *Pillion drops), Idris Elba was number 32, Andrew Scott got 41, Luke Evans was a shocking 172, and our mega crush this year, Tramell Tillman, landed at 214 (but let him cook, his time is coming!).But most shocking of all, two names didn't make the list at all:Henry Cavill (@) Alan RitchsonSee on Instagram (@) Ultimately, this list is all in good fun, and any excuse to enjoy looking at some hot daddies sounds pretty great to us!

Diplos casual queerness should be studied. And the next lesson should feature the not not gay DJ claiming he dated both Katy Perry and former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during a recent appearance on the Smart Girl Dumb Questions podcast. Perry and Trudeau recently confirmed they are dating after rumors swirled when the two were spotted having a cozy dinner together in July. But according to Diplo, the pop star and former Canadian Prime Minister may share more of a connection than they realized.The revealing exchange began with Diplo talking about Montreal, Canada, being a horny place. Host Nayeema Raza agreed, adding that the countrys new prime minister, Mark Carney, is hot.The conversation took a turn when Diplo said, Now Katy Perry is dating Justin Trudeau. Pretty fire. He then added that he dated Perry before casually dropping, Oh, I did date Trudeau too.That was a weird one though, he continued, explaining, Because I'm just not into politicians.The question is: did he actually mean it, or was he just kidding? While its unclear in the clip whether the DJ was joking, in the YouTube comments for the episode, the shows official account clarified that it was all in fun, writing, lol!! no that part was a joke.Folks on social media, however, disagree and many are all in on Diplos claims being true. (@) (@) What is confirmed, however, is that Diplo and Perry dated briefly back in 2014. In fact, Perry once ranked the DJ as her third-best lover behind Orlando Bloom and John Mayer while playing a game with James Corden on her Witness World Wide livestream in 2017.If Diplos claim is true, its yet another example of his effortlessly queer nonchalance and one more reason queer folks cant get enough of him.

Car accidents are already tough and chaotic. However, LGBTQ+ drivers may also experience additional layers of fear and stress in their driving. Common fears may include being misgendered or subjected to an attack or hateful comment about their identity. Below are four rights to remember after youve had an accident.Protect Your Medical Privacy and Use of Your Chosen NameWhen you have been in an accident or have sought medical attention, medical personnel, police officers, and insurance adjusters may ask for personal identification and medical history forms. You have the right to use the name and gender identity of your choice for any non-legal documents, and to identify yourself. HIPAA protects your health and medical data. This includes your name and pronouns. If a medical, law enforcement, or insurance person identifies you by another name, all you have to do is correct them. You may also bring it up with a patient advocate if one has been assigned.Note Any Instances Of Bias Or HarassmentUnfortunately discrimination can arise during traffic stops or when filing an accident report. If you experience biased language, are harassed, or are denied service based on your identity, document it as soon as possible.Write down:The names and badge numbers of the responding officers or paramedicsThe time, location, and nature of the encounterAny witnesses who can verify what occurredIf possible, audio or video record the experience. It is easier to report bias later when you have proof. In serious instances, the experience may lead to a civil rights complaint.Deal with Your Insurers CautiouslyInsurance reps often sound warm and caring, but they are trying to minimize their companys payout. LGBTQ+ drivers, and more so transgender or nonbinary drivers, have experienced subtle discrimination when insurance reps question medical treatments or emotional distress compensation.When sharing details about the accident, focus on the facts. Do not disclose anything unconnected to the incident or speculate about fault. Think twice before discussing your name or relationship with the other vehicle operator unless that information is directly relevant to your legal claim.If you need assistance, consult a qualified car accident attorney such as West Coast Trial Lawyers who has knowledge in the area of personal injury law and the privacy needs of LGBTQ+ clients.If the Other Driver Is Uninsured Know Your OptionsBeing hit by an underinsured or uninsured vehicle may create additional obstacles in recovery. Nonetheless, it may be possible for you to get coverage on your expenses related to medical bills, vehicle damage, and emotional distress from your own policy. If your own insurance company is denying you coverage or delaying your reimbursements, you should meet with an attorney. Find one that specializes in underinsured or uninsured claims.EndnoteIf you are an LGBTQ+ driver, you have legal rights just as other drivers do. After an accident, you deserve dignity and to be treated with respect. Knowing how to hold onto your own identity, document your experience, and get compensated will help you heal physically, financially, and emotionally.The post 4 Rights LGBTQ+ Drivers Should Know After an Accident appeared first on LGBTQ and ALL.

The Netherlands has a new prime minister. After a closely fought battle between anti-immigrant Party for Freedom leader Geert Wilders and the D66 partys Rob Jetten, a 38-year-old gay man who campaigned on climate policy, affordable housing,and restoring trust in government, Dutch voters sided with the gay guy. Related Dutch constitution will be amended to ban LGBTQ+ discrimination On Friday, they handed the pro-European, socially liberal D66 party a plurality in the legislature, making Jetten the youngest and first gay prime minister in the history of the Netherlands.I think weve now shown to the rest of Europe and the world that it is possible to beat the populist movements if you campaign with a positive message for your country, Jetten told the media early Friday morning. Insights for the LGBTQ+ community Subscribe to our briefing for insights into how politics impacts the LGBTQ+ community and more. Subscribe to our Newsletter today The soon-to-be leader of the EUs fifth-largest economy campaigned on the slogan Het kan wel, an optimistic phrase that borrows from Barack Obamas iconic call to action in 2008: Yes, we can.Supporters were ecstatic as the results came in, including Jettens 28-year-old fianc, two-time Olympian Nico Keenan.Dubbed the hockeyhunk by Dutch websiteTelegraaf, the field hockey-playing Argentine native competed for his home country in the 2024 Paris games.Last November, the couple jointly posted to their Instagram accounts with photos confirming theyre Soon to be Mr&Mr.Jetten said he popped the question at home just before they sat down for a romantic meal together.I thought it was about time, the future prime minister told LINDA.nl last year. It just feels great. Were very happy together. On election night, Keenan posted an adorable TikTokvideo of the young couple preparing for the evening.Set to RAYEs Where the Hell Is My Husband?, the hockey hunk stands solo in a suit before Jetten slides into frame and the pair share a kiss.Lets go, Keenan says to camera. @nicokeenan97 Election night, lets go @RobJetten #stemmen #d66 WHERE IS MY HUSBAND! RAYE Jetten grew up a self-confessed politics nerd in a small town in the south of the Netherlands and came out when he was young.He hasnt made his sexuality a major part of his political platform, but hes been transparent about his identity.Five years ago, Jetten posted a video reading a long list of homophobic messages from his phone, the BBC reports, highlighting why an international day against homophobia was important.In a country where LGBTQ+ rights are widely supported, his far-right opponent did not make the new PMs sexuality a campaign issue in the election.Instead, Wilders has used gay rights to highlight the intolerance of Muslims as another reason for excluding immigrants from the country.Jetten has not been a perfect candidate over the course of his young career. He led the D66 to disastrous defeat in 2023. Some media critics have called him dull, while the label Robot Jetten has stuck.Robot Jetten is going to be prime minister! one reporter exclaimed to him as the election night results became clear.Sometimes it can work out really crazy in politics, Jetten said, grinning.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

The streets of Buenos Aires were filled with sounds of celebration and protest on Saturday as Argentinas largest Pride march rolled from the citys central Plaza de Mayo to the National Congress building.Hundreds of thousands turned out in support of the LGBTQ+ community and against right-wingArgentine President Javier Mileis public attacks on it. Related Argentinas president called all LGBTQ+ people pedophiles. Now hes getting sued. Insights for the LGBTQ+ community Subscribe to our briefing for insights into how politics impacts the LGBTQ+ community and more. Subscribe to our Newsletter today The political backdrop for the march was a resounding victory last week for Mileis party, La Libertad Avanza (LLA), in legislative elections. Low voter turnout may have contributed to a strong showing that took pollsters and the opposition by surprise.LLA won more than 40 percent of the vote nationwide and 15 of 24 districts, providing the Trump-aligned leader with a veto-proof number of votes in the legislature. It also promised delivery of Trumps $20 billion bailout for Milei to address Argentinas ailing economy.Attendees on Saturday marched under the slogan Against hate and violence: more pride and unity, as they navigated packed downtown streets and boulevards toward the capital building. These days, with the current government, there is a lot of hate. You can see it in the streets and on social media, Nahuel Vassallo, a 22-year-old university student, told the Buenos Aires Times. Thats why standing here to defend our rights and who we are is so key.Milei has charted a course of division and blame similar to Trumps.Earlier this year, he took the international far-rights war on woke to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, with a fiery speech declaring that LGBTQ+ gender ideology constitutes plain and simple child abuse.They are pedophiles, he said of the LGBTQ+ community.The mental virus of woke ideology is the great epidemic of our time that must be cured, he added. This is the cancer we need to get rid of, along with feminism, diversity, inclusion, abortion, environmentalism, and gender ideology.The rhetorical assault inspired a massive demonstration in Buenos Aires days later. Milei responded by amending the countrys Gender Identity Law by decree. The groundbreaking measure, passed in 2012, dropped requirements for any diagnosis or treatment for someone to prove their gender identity, depathologizing transgender identity.The amended legislation banned gender-affirming hormone treatments and surgeries for trans people under 18.Mileie has also dissolved the government agencies responsible for gender equality and anti-discrimination efforts.Argentina has a history of pro-LGBTQ+ legislation that is under attack by Milei and his far-right supporters. The country was the first in Latin America to legalize same-sex marriage in 2012.According to thelatest report from the National Observatory on LGBT+ Hate Crimes, hate crime incidence is up 70 percent in the first six months of 2025 vs. the same period last year. Perhaps more worrying, security forces perpetrated more than half, double the number last year. Viviana Cardano, from theATE state-workers union, said the LGBT+ community had suffered under Mileis divisive politics.Today we are all here to reject the policies of this new government and the persecution that the LGBTQ+ community has been suffering since Mileis statements in Davos, she said on Saturday.Among the thousands of signs at the march, one read: There is no pride without justice.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani surprised patrons at an LGBTQ+ bar over the weekend when he stopped by their Halloween party to campaign.The Democratic nominee was met with thunderous cheers and applause when he addressed the crowd at Papi Juice around 1 a.m. on Sunday. Speaking from the DJ booth, he thanked the Brooklyn QTPOC art collective "for creating a space for queer and trans New Yorkers." "In a city where so much is about struggle, it's so important to have a space for joy," Mamdani said. @laydayalldayTHATS OUR MAYOR!!!! 3 days people, please go vote if you havent!! It will take 5 mins!!! #zohranmamdani #mamdani #papijuice #queertiktok #transrights @Zohran MamdaniMamdani then turned the focus to Tuesday's election, asking the crowd, "I want to know, are you ready to win this race? Are you ready to beat Andrew Cuomo? Are you ready to make history?" He was met with even louder applause, as the crowd gave a resounding "Yeah!""It is an honor to be the first mayoral candidate to ever be in Papi Juice," Mamdani added. "Thank you so much. I can't wait to see you at the polls on Tuesday."The 34-year-old self-described Democratic socialist won the party's primary earlier this year, beating out former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo in what was described as a political upset due to his grassroots campaign that mobilized young voters. Despite his victory, he has still not received endorsements from top Democrats such as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.Related: What Zohran Mamdani's mayoral primary win means for LGBTQ+ New Yorkers Mamdani has run on a platform centered around making life in NYC affordable: free buses, universal childcare, city-owned grocery stores, and a rent freeze on rent-stabilized apartments. He has also advocated for human rights, condemning the war in Gaza, the Trump administration's decision to bomb Iran, and the disappearance of Mahmoud Khalil.Donald Trump has threatened to illegally withhold federal funding from NYC if Mamdani wins. He said in a Sunday interview on CBS' 60 Minutes that "it's gonna be hard for me as the president to give a lot of money to New York, because if you have a Communist running New York, all you're doing is wasting the money you're sending there."When asked what he thinks of Mamdani, Trump bizarrely (and incorrectly) responded, "Well, I think I'm a much better looking person than him." Of Cuomo, Trump said, "I'm not a fan of Cuomo one way or the other, but if it's gonna be between a bad Democrat and a Communist, I'm gonna pick the bad Democrat all the time, to be honest with you."Mamdani poked fun at the interview and Trump's support of Cuomo, who is still running as an Independent, writing in a post online, "Congratulations, @AndrewCuomo. I know how hard you worked for this."

Beginning last weekend, some TikTok users in the United States report that they are unable to leave the transgender flag emoji in the comments section of the social media platform. While some report no issues, others who attempt to publish a comment with the flag find that it appears as two separate emojis: a white flag and the transgender symbol. @yesinmybackyard #stitch with @JDkon this is more of a technical explainer of a fun technical glitch, but no TikTok is not censoring the trans flag # #apec The missing emoji could be a bug or glitch; above, one user explains how newer emojis work and how, in the programming back end, they are essentially a combination of two emojis. But amid growing concerns over the federal government's attempts at transgender erasure the prospective buyer of the app's U.S. operations, Oracle, was cofounded by Larry Ellison, a staunch ally of President Trump the missing flag has set off some alarm bells.The second Trump administration has taken particular aim at trans people and visibility, presiding over a number of bans, erasure from federal sites, the reversal of rights, and blatant attacks. In light of this political context, GLAAD, a prominent LGBTQ+ media watchdog, urged TikTok to take action in a statement to Out: "TikTok should swiftly investigate and resolve this problem.""This emoji is widely used by trans and nonbinary users to express pride and identity," the statement continued. "Weve seen harmful and shocking rollbacks from other platforms this year with companies like Meta, YouTube, and LinkedIn abandoning basic policy protections and safety features for trans and nonbinary users including Metas deletion of trans and nonbinary themes from Messenger, and blocking of LGBTQ hashtags from teens on Instagram." "It is more important than ever right now that companies are loud and clear in their values and that they practice inclusiveness and safety for transgender people on their platforms," the organization's statement concluded.Out reached out to TikTok for comment, but did not immediately hear back.

Jonathan Bailey is breaking ground as People's Sexiest Man Alive.The Wicked: For Good actor is the first out gay man to hold the title, which in the past has been given to John Krasinski, Patrick Dempsey, John Legend, Idris Elba, Dwayne Johnson, David Beckham, Richard Gere, and Channing Tatum. View this post on Instagram A post shared by People Magazine (@people)The news was revealed Monday on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, with Bailey appearing with a blown-up version of the cover. "It's the honor of a lifetime," he told the late-night host. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Tonight Show (@fallontonight)It's been a banner year for Bailey, who has helmed blockbusters like Wicked and Jurassic World Rebirth in addition to being named to the Time 100 Next list (as well as the People cover). He's also raised significant capital for LGBTQ+ causes through his Shameless Fund nonprofit. The English actor first gained mainstream fame as a star of Netflix's Bridgerton and a lead in the Showtime miniseries Fellow Travelers, which earned him an Emmy nomination (as well as an Out cover and a place on the Out100). View this post on Instagram A post shared by People Magazine (@people)Reflecting on his success, Bailey told People, You get to a point where you look back and you go, Wow, but you never for a second think thats where youre headed, he says. You know, to be able to do things that you dream of."At various moments in my life Ive been like, 'Ive got this,' which is sometimes met by a deep spike of fear and self-doubt," he said. "When I was really young, I was very confident about who I was, and maybe I lost that as I grew up. Were all sort of trying to get back to the origin, arent we? But I was swimming in the sea about an hour ago with a good gang, and I felt all right in my skin." View this post on Instagram A post shared by People Magazine (@people)To People, Bailey opened up about his personal life, including his idea of a "perfect date night." "I love a walk, I do love dinner, theater, films. It depends what number date. You know, if its like date 100, then like Legos, although we Brits say it singular 'Lego,' and pizza. Some of my best dates have been Lego dates," he shared.The qualities he seeks in a partner? "Communication and being clear. Transparency is absolutely utmost, utmost, utmost. And really supporting, really cheerleading and watching someone thrive, should be a real turn-on." View this post on Instagram A post shared by People Magazine (@people)The qualities he doesn't like? "Bad communication, lack of transparency. Doesnt like Lego. Actually, Ill only be with somebody who can speak three languages. Yeah, and theyve got seven degrees and a doctorate. Otherwise theyre just not good enough."In his interview, Bailey revealed his first celebrity crush was Prince Eric from The Little Mermaid. And he also offered some advice to his younger self: "Dude, youre in for a ride. Youre not going to believe where youre going to end up. Its all going to be fine. Itll be bumpy, but youll meet some amazing people. And trust your instincts because theyve got your back.""I feel incredibly lucky. Life is a ride for everyone no matter who you are, where you come from. Its just making sure that when youre in the ride, youre looking left and right and making sure everyones all right. And give them a high-five along the way if they need it."See congratulations from Bailey's Wicked cast mates as well as his own reaction below. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wicked: For Good (@wickedmovie) View this post on Instagram A post shared by People Magazine (@people)

Tens of thousands of revelers descended on this year's West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval.The annual celebration is known for its costume creativity and this year did not disappoint. Both the sexy and sensational paraded Friday night along Santa Monica Boulevard, which is home to the city's rainbow district. This year's event was tied to the 50th anniversary of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, with several themed activations celebrating the queer camp film throughout.See shots from Miguel Angel Reyes ahead. And find more of the photographer's work on Instagram @miguelangelreyes.And don't miss Reyes's showing and selling of his Uncensored Erotic drawing series at the next @dandyland.art erotic art fair on Saturday, November 15, 2 to 8 p.m., at Precinct (357 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013).

Using LGBTQ+ identities as a punchline is back in vogue, and its time for straight and cis people to knock it off.Reality TV personality Jennifer Welch has made a name for herself as a liberal podcaster in the past couple of years. Her politics are pretty clearly on the center-left: She regularly speaks out against the president and other rightwing personalities while, when actually talking about policy, upholding liberal values. Related Travis Kelce supports brother after videos of him using anti-gay slur go viral But she still went on a homophobic tirade about Vice President JD Vance on her podcast last week because its 2025, and everyone is meaner.We cannot lose our democracy to these f**king dorks, she said on the October 30 episode of Ive Had It. And then you get to JD Vance, who is a failed drag queen. You know, he is! He is a failed drag queen, he wanted to be a drag queen, he couldnt do it, he wasnt fabulous enough. Dive deeper every day Join our newsletter for thought-provoking commentary that goes beyond the surface of LGBTQ+ issues Subscribe to our Newsletter today He goes off to Peter Thiels gay boot camp in Silicon Valley, and he comes out like a sociopathic Queer Eye freak show. You know, hed be so much cooler if hed just come out.Its worth pointing out that there is no reason to believe that Vance is gay or that he wanted to be a drag queen. Welch is likely referring to some pictures of him that came out last year, where he wore a wig and womens clothes to a Halloween party in college once. Drag is an art form not a joke and he never showed any interest in being a drag queen. And the comment about Thiel, who is an actual out gay man, refers to Vances work for Thiels Mithril Capital. That is, Welch referred to Vance working for a venture capital firm as Peter Thiels gay boot camp in Silicon Valley because that firm happens to be owned by a gay man.She thinks Vance is gay because he worked for a company owned by a gay man? Does she mean that any man turns gay if they get close enough to other gay men to catch gay cooties? Does she mean that any endeavor a gay person pursues can be dismissed as gay boot camp?Thats just homophobia. Being gay isnt contagious, and its not the punchline. In the same podcast, she said that House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) cant stop doing gay stuff. She also said that there are DL Demon Queens throughout the GOP who get on Grindr at night and they go do gay stuff.Might she have been referring to the debunked story about how Grindr got shut down at Charlie Kirks funeral? Who knows. Her goal appears to be to just call Republican men gay-as-in-evil (otherwise, why call them demon queens?).The whole thing is very homophobic and hard to watch. If she werent liberal, other liberals wouldnt have any trouble calling her out.Jennifer Welch on JD Vance: We cannot lose our democracy to these fucking dorks. JD Vance is a failed drag queen. He goes off to Peter Thiels gay boot camp and he comes out like a sociopathic queer eyed freak show. Hed be so much cooler if hed just come out. pic.twitter.com/FJK2XQ196Y Marco Foster (@MarcoFoster_) October 30, 2025 This is obviously just homophobia. She is directly saying that its a bad thing to be gay. She doesnt like these people, so shes going to call them a bunch of fa***ts because thats the worst thing someone can call a man.As someone on the left, shes drawing from a much longer tradition of imagining a secret fascist cabal run by sodomites, an idea that runs back to at least the early 20th century. The stereotype is so well-known that it has its own Wikipedia page entitled the Gay Nazis myth because of how German leftists in the 1920s would mock Nazis by calling them gay and also spread conspiracy theories about the secret ties of homosexuality holding the Nazi party together. The idea is still alive to this day, with anti-LGBTQ+ activist Scott Lively publishing his book, The Pink Swastika, in 1995 and using it to advocate for the repression of LGBTQ+ people both in the U.S. and in Africa. The fascists-are-secretly-gay myth is harmful because it draws on stereotypes of gay men being duplicitous (Welch stressed that the Demon Queens are on the DL), secretly hoarding power and privilege and using it to harm others. There are plenty of people on the left who are dismissive of LGBTQ+ rights, treating them like trivial concerns that only matter to the educated elite, and one of the reasons why is that there are people like Welch who apparently sincerely believe that being gay doesnt have any effect on ones access to power, even within the Republican Party.This is a very common joke among liberals, which is why it feels so humorless to call it out. Every time there is a major Republican or Christian leader who says something homophobic, there will be hundreds of comments online calling them gay. If you point out that the vast majority of anti-LGBTQ+ pastors and Republicans are straight, are married to someone of the opposite sex, and were never caught with anyone or anything that would indicate that they were queer in any way whatsoever, theyll come back with one or two examples of exceptions, which, to them, is enough to justify using an entire marginalized minority as a joke.There is a version of this that some liberals use to attack women on the right, where they accuse them of being secretly transgender. Just last week, commentator Don Lemon joked that rightwing radio host Megyn Kelly was transgender. On his podcast Clip Farmers, a cohost asked if Lemon thought Kelly was ugly, and Lemon said, I think she looks trans and called her clockable, which means he didnt think she passes as a cis woman. He said she was too skinny and wore too much hair and makeup. Don Lemon Claims Megyn Kelly Looks Like a Transgender pic.twitter.com/BV4Xhhhses BigmanshaneNews (@BIGMANSHANE1) October 29, 2025Lemon later berated people who complained about his joke with a video on Instagram: Sometimes a joke is just a joke. There is no one more supportive of the trans community than I am. This is transphobic. Using trans identity as an insult implies that its a bad thing to be transgender. And since there is no real reason to believe that Kelly is transgender, its just reducing a word that describes an entire class of people to a simple insult.This isnt the only time this has happened. Ann Coulter used to get called transgender by liberals. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) gets it sometimes, too, probably because she has made transphobia so integral to her political image.Im finding it hard to explain why its homo-/transphobic to use the words gay and transgender as insults. Its so obvious, yet so many people keep denying it. They dont even give any good reasons; they usually just say, Its a joke or Its just true that conservatives always turn out to be closeted, which, no, thats not even remotely true. Its like trying to convince someone that the sky is blue when theyre looking right at it and denying it.The right does the same thing, of course, and they go way beyond using gay and trans as insults and develop entire conspiracy theories around the identities. The right spent years saying that Barack Obama isnt a real man, that hes effete, that he had a secret gay lover. Many on the far-right claim that Michelle Obama is secretly transgender, something they made up both to attack her and to reinforce their claim that Barack Obama is gay (to conservatives, marrying a trans woman would make him a gay man).But when the right does it, I dont have to convince normally intelligent people that its hateful. Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

One thing about Hollywood: it has a few hunks!In 2025, People named Jonathan Bailey as the "Sexiest Man Alive" and the actor made history as the first-ever out gay celebrity to be featured as the cover stars of this annual issue.First given out in 1985, the title of "Sexiest Man Alive" has being given to a few male celebrities more than once. In turn, there are numerous Hollywood heartthrobs that could've certainly made it onto the list But did not.Bailey's choice as this year's honoree isn't just exciting given his success in Hollywood, nor does it hinge on him being a good-looking man. It is actually historic for such a wide-reaching entertainment publication like People to finally feature an out gay celebrity as the cover star. And we're here for it.Below, a timeline of male celebrities named "Sexiest Man Alive" by People in chronological order.1. Mel Gibson (1985)Picture it: it's 1985, Mel Gibson is a 29-year-old actor already known as an action star and household name, and People picks him as the first-ever "Sexiest Man Alive." Some would say that this choice hasn't aged amazingly but hey, that's one thing that makes "time capsules" so interesting, right?2.Mark Harmon (1986)At age 34, Mark Harmon still wasn't known for his long-standing lead role as Leroy Jethro Gibbs on NCIS. This was 1986, so Harmon was still most recognized for TV shows like Flamingo Road and St. Elsewhere, for instance. Still, a pretty solid choice for the second-ever "Sexiest Man Alive" named by People.3. Harry Hamlin (1987)The girls, gays, and theys oft today probably recognize the name Harry Hamlin from hearing Lisa Rinna saying his name so often on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. In 1987, though, Hamlin was a 35-year-old Hollywood hunk who made a legendary name for himself after playing Perseus in the 1981 film Clash of the Titans, as well as his role as Michael Kuzak on the TV show L.A. Law.As far as Hollywood in 1987 was concerned, Hamlin was indeed (at least one of the) "Sexiest Man Alive" of that time.4. John F. Kennedy Jr. (1988)John F. Kennedy Jr., the son of U.S. President John F. Kennedy (assassinated in 1963) and First Lady Jackie Kennedy, was named People's "Sexiest Man Alive" in 1988. JFK Jr. was 28 years old at the time and, after failed attempts at entering politics, became a writer and magazine publisher.5. Sean Connery (1989)Gen Z might not get it, but the worshipping of Sean Connery as a bona fide Hollywood hunk lasted for many, many, many years. One of those "you had to be there" things, y'know? Anyway, Connery was named "Sexiest Man Alive" at 59 years of age. He is still, to this day, the oldest man to ever be granted this title by People magazine.6.Tom Cruise (1990)Imagine watching a movie and a 27-year-old Tom Cruise appears in a scene, looking like that. It's like he was the Supreme Babygirl of an entire generation, but before we even determined what that meant. Well, People saw the vision, too, and named Cruise the "Sexiest Man Alive" in 1990.7.Patrick Swayze (1991)There's a special place reserved for the late Patrick Swayze in the great pantheon of ultimate Hollywood studs of all time. At 38, Swayze was named People's "Sexiest Man Alive" and was a household name who kept delivering great performances (and eye-candy!).8.Nick Nolte (1992)Circling back to what makes "time capsules" so interesting: Nick Nolte, who was then 51 years old, was named People's "Sexiest Man Alive" in 1992. Right after Cruise and Swayze!9.Richard Gere and Cindy Crawford (1993)This is a weird one, but we've got you. In 1993, People decided to name the "Sexiest Couple Alive" as Richard Gere (44) and Cindy Crawford (27). This has never happened again, ever, to a degree like this making this entry stand out even more.But, I mean, who would complain about being reminded of how beautiful Crawford has always been? Also, this still meant that Gere was that year's "Sexiest Man Alive," and that one of the most accurate choices of all time, to be honest!10.Keanu Reeves (1994)People named Keanu Reeves the "Sexiest Man Alive" back in 1994 when the actor was just 30 years old. But if you ask basically anyone on the internet, they'll tell you that Reeves has looked exactly the same for decades now. He's a certified hunk (that's for sure!), so this choice is a case of "10/10, no notes."11.Brad Pitt (1995)Brad Pitt was named People's "Sexiest Man Alive" for the first time after reaching bona fide heartthrob status with his performances in Thelma & Louise (1991), Interview With the Vampire (1994), and Seven (1995).At 32, Pitt's good looks were indeed having quite a moment in the mid-1990s.12.Denzel Washington (1996)Whitney Houston and The Preacher's Wife probably influenced People's choice in naming Denzel Washington as 1996's "Sexiest Man Alive" as it should! The actor, who was indeed a gorgeous 41-year-old man at the time, has also been aging like fine wine over the years. We LOVE to see it!13.George Clooney (1997)George Clooney became a certified A-list in 1997 as he played ER's ultimate heartthrob Doug Ross, starred in The Peacemaker alongside Nicole Kidman, and became Batman a.k.a. Bruce Wayne in the undeniably queer-coded Batman & Robin film by director Joel Schumacher. The 36-year-old actor was also objectively gorgeous, which made him the perfect "Sexiest Man Alive" for that year.14.Harrison Ford (1998)I mean, just look at the material! Harrison Ford had already become a Hollywood staple in 1998 after playing the titular character in the Indiana Jones franchise and Han Solo in the original Star Wars trilogy. At 56-years-old, Ford had another huge hit with Air Force One, and it made perfect sense for People to choose him as 1998's "Sexiest Man Alive."15.Richard Gere (1999)Plenty of celebrities are sexy, but not that many celebrities can say they were named People's "Sexiest Man Alive" not one, but two times!There are a few other celebs who became two-time holders of this title, but the first man to do it was Gere, age 50, back in 1999.16.Brad Pitt (2000)Just a year after Richard Gere became the first two-time "Sexiest Man Alive" honoree, People went with another celeb who had already held the title before: Brad Pitt.The actor, now 37 years old, was named "Sexiest Man Alive" for a second time after making waves with his performances in films like Meet Joe Black and Fight Club, and also for dating Jennifer Aniston in a high-publicized relationship while she was at the height of her Friends success.17.Pierce Brosnan (2001)Pierce Brosnan, age 48, was on the verge of concluding his run as 007 in the James Bond franchise when he was named "Sexiest Man Alive" by People in 2001. The actor's iconic four-movie run in GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, The World Is Not Enough, and Die Another Day concluded in 2022, but one can certainly say that Brosnan brought the sexy back to this series of films.18.Ben Affleck (2002)Ben Affleck had been making a name for himself for years by the time that he was named People's "Sexiest Man Alive." Namely, he had starred in 1997's Good Will Hunting and made a splash for cowriting that film with Matt Damon which led to both Affleck's and Damon's first Academy Award nomination and win.Around 30 years old, Affleck started being seen as a Hollywood heartthrob and action star to audiences, starring in movies such as Armageddon, Bounce, Pearl Harbor, and Reindeer Games. And, specifically in 2002, Affleck was already working on big projects like Daredevil and Gigli the latter led to his very public relationship with Jennifer Lopez, and certainly helped him be named "Sexiest Man Alive."19.Johnny Depp (2003)In 2003, Johnny Depp had outgrown his Edward Scissorhands notoriety but was conquering the world with his portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. It's unclear if a character like Jack Sparrow helped 40-year-old Depp be named "Sexiest Man Alive," but this was People's decision for that year.20. Jude Law (2004)It's hard to think of any on-screen appearance of Jude Law looking bad in a film. And, in the 2000s, he had already garnered a lot of attention by playing the gorgeous and posh Dickie Greenleaf in The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999). So why was he only picked "Sexiest Man Alive" by People in 2004? Well, the answer is simple: Closer!Closer was a literal cultural reset for all the actors attached to that project, and it felt like an obvious (but well-deserved) choice for Law to hold this title in 2004.21.Matthew McConaughey (2005)Alright, alright, alright!People named Matthew McConaughey as the "Sexiest Man Alive" in 2005 a period when the actor was very much still in his "rom-com era" that included films like The Wedding Planner (2001), How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003), and Failure to Launch (2006), to name a few.22.George Clooney (2006)George Clooney entered the two-time "Sexiest Man Live" club in 2006 and it's hard not to attribute the 45-year-old actor's sex appeal to his recent movies at the time, such as Ocean's Eleven (2001), Solaris (2002), Intolerable Cruelty (2003), Ocean's Twelve (2004), and Good Night, and Good Luck (2005).23.Matt Damon (2007)Ben Affleck beat Matt Damon when it came to the title of People's "Sexiest Man Alive," but Damon still got his own cover in 2007, and the timing was actually pitch-perfect.Not only had Damon concluded his role in the Ocean's Trilogy that year, but he was also reaching new heights as an action star through the Bourne series of movies. The third installment of the franchise a favorite to many fans was The Bourne Ultimatum, which absolutely propelled the 37-year-old actor to be perceived as the "Sexiest Man Alive."24.Hugh Jackman (2008)In 2008, Hugh Jackman had just finished his run as Wolverine in the initial X-Men trilogy of films and was making waves with performances in other projects such as The Prestige and Australia. At age 40, Jackman was named People's "Sexiest Man Alive," and it obviously felt long overdue!25.Johnny Depp (2009)While still playing Captain Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise and bringing his flair to 2005's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory reboot, 2007's Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street cinematic adaptation, a 45-year-old Johnny Depp was named yet again People's "Sexiest Man Alive" in 2009.26.Ryan Reynolds (2010)Ryan Reynolds had a string of successful projects that contributed to raising his profile as a celebrity, which eventually led to him being named the 2010 "Sexiest Man Alive" by People. Of note, the actor's roles in The Proposal and X-Men Origins: Wolverine definitely contributed to his growing fame, while also proving that he had enough gravitas to pull off a performance in a movie as unique as 2010's Buried.34-year-old Reynolds was also given this title following the news that he'd be in (what was expected to be) a superhero blockbuster, DC Comics' Green Lantern, as he played the titular character.27.Bradley Cooper (2011)It also took quite a while for Bradley Cooper to be recognized as People's "Sexiest Man Alive," even though it already felt like he was a pretty obvious choice for a few years at this point. In hindsight, however, this happened at the exact perfect time 2011, which felt like an inflection point for the actor.After starring in two The Hangover movies and doing several comedies such as Yes Man, He's Just Not That Into You, All About Steve, and Valentine's Day, Cooper had reached 36 years of age and was ready to enter the next phase of his career. In a way, this title felt like the final chapter of Cooper as a cinematic heartthrob, pushing him to do more dramatic work in films like Silver Linings Playbook, American Sniper, and even his directorial pursuits.28.Channing Tatum (2012)Channing Tatum had already been established as a Hollywood heartthrob in films like Step Up and She's the Man. However, he did level-up in his career by making us laugh with 21 Jump Street and making us sweat with Magic Mike both released in 2012. With such a milestone year, it came as no surprise that 32-year-old Tatum was named People's "Sexiest Man Alive" that year.29.Adam Levine (2013)The man once known as just being the very good-looking frontman of Maroon 5 became an actual A-list celebrity after a few high-profile relationships, appearing as a coach on NBC's singing competition show The Voice, and releasing the hit song "Moves Like Jagger." This was an era when Adam Levine was all over the place and had the general public swooning over him, leading to People's choice to be name Levine the "Sexiest Man Alive" of 2013.30.Chris Hemsworth (2014)The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) introduced Chris Hemsworth to a global audience with his portrayal of Thor the Norse god of thunder and superhero that led four standalone films and was heavily featured in Marvel's Avengers saga. By 2014, there wasn't any debate that 31-year-old Hemsworth was worthy of not only of wielding the Mjolnir hammer, but also of People naming him 2014's "Sexiest Man Alive."31.David Beckham (2015)Another celebrity aging like fine wine is English soccer player David Beckham, named "Sexiest Man Alive" by People in 2015 at age 40. In recent years, the athlete and his wife, former Spice Girl member Victoria Beckham, released the Beckham docuseries on Netflix and have gotten more comfortable sharing their private lives on social media.32.Dwayne Johnson a.k.a. The Rock (2016)I mean, it's Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson what do you mean he hadn't been named People's "Sexiest Man Alive" until 2016?!The WWE wrestler had been transitioning into an acting career showing off his action moves, comedy chops, and insane physique as early as 2010's Tooth Fairy. Over time, he became a staple in the Fast & Furious franchise, headlined his own blockbusters like San Andreas, and was ultimately cast to voice Maui, the god of weather, in Disney's 2016 animated musical Moana. This was followed by the title of "Sexiest Man Alive," with Johnson reaching 44 years of age.33.Blake Shelton (2017)41-year-old Black Shelton was named People's "Sexiest Man Alive" in 2017, and we're going to keep it real with you: this weird choice had a pretty lukewarm reception and that was even among straight people!No one was ever saying that the country singer and The Voice superstar is not a good-looking man but there was a general sense of confusion regarding why Shelton was chosen in 2017 over a seemingly endless list of more obvious (and timely) choices.34.Idris Elba (2018)Speaking of glaring omissions by 2018, it started to feel a little ridiculous that Idris Elba had never been named "Sexiest Man Alive" by People.The actor had already reached that level of name recognition, had given us sensational performances in projects like Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, Beasts of No Nation, and Luther, and still looked absolutely fantastic as a 46-year-old man. Thankfully, Elba finally received this title in 2018, and that one really felt correct.35. John Legend (2019)People followed up Idris Elba with another handsome man who absolutely deserved the title of "Sexiest Man Alive" in 2019: R&B superstar John Legend, who was 40 at the time. Between so many hit songs, TV show appearances, and even acting roles in movies, Legend has been on the Hollywood radar for decades now, and that face card has never declined (not even once).36.Michael B. Jordan (2020)Between his roles as Adonis Johnson in the Creed franchise and playing Erik Killmonger in Black Panther, Michael B. Jordan had already become a global superstar upon being named "Sexiest Man Alive" by People in 2020.37.Paul Rudd (2021)Paul Rudd was named People's 2021 "Sexiest Man Alive" after showing off how good he still looked in his 50s, to the point that he could have fully shirtless scenes in the Ant-Man movies and looked just as good as his younger costars in the MCU.38.Chris Evans (2022)While it was odd for so many actors connected to the Marvel Cinematic Universe to be chosen back to back, Chris Evans obviously made perfect sense as a choice for People's "Sexiest Man Alive" in 2022. At this point, girls, gays, and theys had been fawning over the 41-year-old actor for decades, and this felt like another long-overdue choice.39. Patrick Dempsey (2023)Even though People had already named male celebs in their 50s as "Sexiest Man Alive" before, the general public was still somewhat surprised for Patrick Dempsey to be chosen in 2023. With that said, the 57-year-old actor spent years in his "McDreamy" run on Grey's Anatomy and still kept up his good looks so this was a surprising, but not particularly wrong choice, if you're asking us!40. John Krasinski (2024)John Krasinski was chosen as the 40th honoree on People's annual Sexiest Man Alive list.From stealing our hearts playing Jim Halpert on The Office to making a huge splash directing A Quiet Place to becoming a bona fide action star on Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan, Krasinski is definitely a Hollywood heartthrob that makes perfect sense for this list. He's also married to our queen Emily Blunt, and that's one of the best endorsements that we can think of!41. Jonathan Bailey (2025)Jonathan Bailey became the first out gay actor of all time to be named People's Sexiest Man Alive.Since his breakout role on Netflix's Bridgerton, Bailey has become a bona fide Hollywood A-lister by starring in major productions like Showtime's Fellow Travelers, Universal Pictures's Jurassic World: Rebirth, and in both the live-action Wicked movie (2024) and its sequel Wicked: For Good (2025).

Anti-LGBTQ+ Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) is getting called out for her racist Halloween costume, which mocked some Hispanic peoples pronunciation while also implying that people of Mexican descent in the U.S. are undocumented immigrants.According to ABC News and pictures posted to social media, Boebert attended a Halloween party in Loveland, Colorado, which is in her congressional district. Her costume included a sombrero, a Mexican-style dress, and a sign that read Mexican word of the day: JUICY. Tell me if juicy ICE coming. Related GOP Congressman has had enough of Lauren Boeberts high school level antics The sign is making fun of how some Hispanic people pronounce the Y sound like a soft J.It is the most disgusting thing I have ever seen, one party attendee told ABC News. Even the conservatives were in shock. People avoided them. Insights for the LGBTQ+ community Subscribe to our briefing for insights into how politics impacts the LGBTQ+ community and more. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Boeberts office, in a statement, said that its just a costume and that the media should focus on getting the Senate to open the government. Trisha Calvarese, a Democrat running in Boeberts district in 2026, called her out online while posting a picture: Lauren Boebert put more effort into a hateful Halloween party costume than she ever has into serving the people of Colorados 4th Congressional District.Lauren Boebert put more effort into a hateful Halloween party costume than she ever has into serving the people of Colorado's 4th Congressional District. I'm Trisha Calvarese, the former public servant whose going to fire her. Help me out, RT, follow, pitch in if you can. Trisha Calvarese (@trishacalvarese.bsky.social) 2025-11-01T18:17:50.652Z 11% of people in Colorados Fourth are of Mexican heritage, according to the Census.Others on Bluesky called Boebert out for the costume, with many calling her trash.Oh wow. NGL, it took me a second. She's trash with money. Horatio Flamethrower (@blindmellojelly.bsky.social) 2025-11-01T18:51:40.557ZShe is trash in human form. Teri (@1912fenway.bsky.social) 2025-11-02T04:29:16.763ZWow. She is such garbage. Seeing Stars (@turquoise919.bsky.social) 2025-11-01T19:41:09.129Zinsufferable trash. Darnitall (@darnitall.bsky.social) 2025-11-02T05:04:27.039ZSubscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

This story is brought to you by our partners at Family Equality.Lets face it. Things are tough. From the statehouse to the Supreme Court, LGBTQ+ families need bold action and protections now. But if theres one thing our community has learned from countless marches in the streets with diaper bags and rainbow flags, its that we need joy with our justice. Thats why Family Equality is gathering an incredible slate of comedians for Night OUT on Saturday, November 8 in Los Angeles.Family Equality, the only national nonprofit dedicated to protecting the freedoms of LGBTQ+ families, is hosting Night OUT, an evening of stand-up comedy and fundraising to fuel their mission.Set in the stylish Nya Studios West, the lineup features sets by LGBTQ+ comedians:Mont X ChangeSolomon GeorgioBryan SafiBrendan ScannellTien TranMo WelchAnd a surprise guest!Murray/Reese Family Award honorees Alec Mapa and Jamison Hebert with their son Zion.In addition, Family Equality will honor two trailblazing and hilarious creative Hollywood duos who embody the power of authenticity and the importance of representation. The Honorees:Tig Notaro & Stephanie Allynne (Visibility Award)Award presented by Glennon Doyle and Abby WambachAlec Mapa & Jamison Hebert (Murray/Reese Family Award)Award presented by Lauren WeedmanVisibility Award honorees Tig Notaro and Stephanie Allynne.While Family Equality is family-focused, this event is tailored for 18 years old and up.Its no secret that the LGBTQ+ community is feeling the weight of this moment. There have been over 600 anti-LGBTQ+ legislation introduced in this year alone. In this climate, an evening dedicated to laughter and connection is more than just an event. Its an act of collective resistance.We learn from the legacy of the heroes of Stonewall, including the recently departed Miss Major Griffin-Gracy, that joy must be at the core of all that we do. It is a key for survival and a path to liberation. Especially now, as our BIPOC and trans families in particular are targeted by dangerous rhetoric and harmful legislation, we must show the world that our community will persist no matter what the future holds.For those carrying the heaviness of the headlines, this is your cue to take a breath. Night OUT is an invitation to exhale, to laugh, and to help fund Family Equalitys critical work for LGBTQ+ families and the future.Joy isnt a distraction from justice. Its part of it.CTA: Get your tickets! [link to familyequality.org/nightout]

In 2025, actors took it all off.From Netflix heartthrobs to controversial sexual dynamics on HBO shows to British actors putting the "box" in BritBox, 2025 has been quite a year for nude actors on mainstream media.Ahead, we've assembled a guide to some of the most memorable naked male celebrity moments of 2025.Agustn Della Corte 'Olympo'No discussion of male nudity in 2025 can possibly leave out Agustn Della Cortes role as Roque on Olympo. The actor appeared naked (or semi-naked) on basically every episode of the series and his background of playing professional rugby clearly helped his bonkers physique.But neither Corte nor Roque default to just being eye-candy. The acting chops are there, too, and we love to see it.Where to watch: Olympo is streaming on Netflix.Dylan O'Brien and James Sweeney 'Twinless'Twinless isn't exactly the most straightforward film you can watch in 2025. However, it's still a very good film that includes some of the hottest gay sex scenes that audiences have seen in a while.In it, Dylan O'Brien plays Roman/Rocky, opposite to James Sweeney's Dennis. Sweeney also wrote and directed the film, which includes plenty of sex and nudity.Where to watch: Twinless is available for rentals and purchases on Apple TV+.Terrell Carter 'Beauty in Black'Terrell Carter plays a queer character, Varney, on the Tyler Perry series Beauty in Black released on Netflix. During the latest batch of episodes released in 2025, Carter has plenty of spicy scenes that include full nudity.Where to watch: Beauty in Black is streaming on Netflix.Henry Golding 'Another Simple Favor'Best known for starring in films like Crazy Rich Asians, The Gentlemen, and Last Christmas, Henry Golding shocked fans with a fully naked scene in Another Simple Favor.The result? Fans are thirstier than ever for the actor.Where to watch: Another Simple Favor is streaming on Prime Video.Max Parker 'Boots'Max Parker, who starred as Sgt. Sullivan on Netflix's Boots, was one of the biggest breakout stars of the series for his very nuanced performance as a closeted man in the U.S. Marine Corps.Throughout the first season, Sullivan had recurring flashbacks to his time meeting and falling for Major Wilkinson (played by Sachin Bhatt). The characters kept their relationship discreet by meeting in a hotel room which is where fans got the memorable Boots scene off Parker sitting on a chair as Bhatt's character started to wake up.Where to watch: Boots is streaming on Netflix.Austin Lindsay 'Overcompensating'Played by Austin Lindsay, Trey was more of a recurring character who served as comic relief throughout the first season of Overcompensating as he randomly appeared naked in scenes, often without saying a word, and it all came off as being pretty funny. And, well, the gays still liked the view, too.Where to watch: Overcompensating is streaming on Prime Video.Richard Fleeshman 'Riot Women'Richard Fleeshman is a recurring actor on Riot Women in the role of JoJo. The series is about five women coming together to form a band, only to end up finding out how angry they are at the world right now.Fans might know Fleeshman from his roles in The Gallery, The Ark, Deep Heat, and Four Weddings and a Funeral (2019).Where to watch: Riot Women is streaming on BBC One/BBC iPlayer.Russell Tovey 'Juice'Russell Tovey plays a therapist named Guy on Juice who becomes the love interest of Jamal played by Mawaan Rizwan, who created the series and also stars in it.The gap between season 1 (2023) and season 2 (2025) was concerning to fans, but Juice did get a second season, and it was well worth the wait.Where to watch: Juice is streaming on Kanopy.Michael Bolwaire 'All the Queen's Men'It's giving "a hot new bombshell enters the villa."All the Queen's Men centers a male exotic nightclub in Atlanta. Michael Bolwaire plays one of the main characters, Doc, and gave viewers some glorious body-ody-ody (nudity included) in the series.Where to watch: All the Queen's Men is streaming on BET+.Anthony Boyle 'House of Guinness'Anthony Boyle plays Arthur Guinness on House of Guinness. From the moment that this series dropped on Netflix, girls, gays, and theys everywhere developed an instant crush on the actor.Interestingly, the scene that went viral from the show is a pretty calm and unexpected moment. Boyle's character takes a bath and stands up from the bathtub, giving viewers a 360 view of what he's got below the waist and no prosthetics, by the way.Where to watch: House of Guinness is streaming on Netflix.Patrick Schwarzenegger 'The White Lotus' season 3Patrick Schwarzenegger was a name on everybodys lips while The White Lotus season 3 aired on HBO and HBO Max. His portrayal of Saxon Ratliff a character with an urge to get naked and get sexual with his own brother opened up the floodgates of serious reactions, hilarious memes, and social media discourse.And it all started right on episode 1, as Saxon invited his brother, Lochlan, to jerk off together. After that offer was rejected, Saxon went to the bathroom to pleasure himself, and Schwarzeneggers body was all there to be seen on the show.Where to watch: The White Lotus is streaming on HBO Max.

Two lawsuits have been filed against the Trump administration over its new rule limiting student loan forgiveness that plaintiffs argue illegally targets LGBTQ+ organizations. The rule states that employees of government or non-profit organizations that support communities and initiatives this administration dislikes will be cut off from the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program (PSLF), which is meant to provide student loan relief to people who work in public service, both in government and in non-profit organizations. Related Mike Johnson falsely says Democrats demand millions for LGBTQ+ Balkans to end the shutdown As part of the announcement, Under Secretary of Education Nicholas Kent made it clear that organizations supporting trans people were a target of the new rule: The Public Service Loan Forgiveness program was meant to support Americans who dedicate their careers to public service not to subsidize organizations that violate the law, whether by harboring illegal immigrants or performing prohibited medical procedures that attempt to transition children away from their biological sex.A group of 22 states filed one of the lawsuits on Monday, which accuses the rule of weaponizing the Department of Education as a roving enforcer of the Administrations animus by stripping PSLF eligibility from employers whose actions it dislikes. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today It emphasizes that the statute establishing the program provides no grounds for the Department to create exceptions to PSLF eligibility. The complaint also slams the overbroad and impermissibly vague language of the rule, which states it will target entities acting with substantial illegal purpose. We're suing the U.S. Department of Education for weaponizing the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.This administration is trying to illegally cut off loan forgiveness eligibility for organizations and governments based off ideals it doesn't agree with.I'm fighting back. NY AG James (@NewYorkStateAG) November 3, 2025This phrase, the lawsuit states, is itself pretextual and aimed only at chilling activities that are disfavored by this Administration.Public service should never be weaponized for political games, said out Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes (D) in a press release announcing the lawsuit. This rule undermines the very spirit of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program and threatens workers who dedicate their careers to public service. Im proud to join my fellow attorneys general in suing to block it.Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown (D) explained in a video that the program is meant to help people like nurses, teachers, and firefighters, and said the new rule will make it harder for people to pursue careers that serve the public.Giving back to the community is a good thing that should be encouraged, he said in a press release. But now, once again, the administration is showing just how little regard it has for the people who keep our cities and states running. AG Brown and 21 other attorneys general are suing the U.S. Department of Education for unlawfully restricting eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, which allows government and nonprofit employees to apply to have their federal student loans forgiven after pic.twitter.com/BKvYwYVi5c Attorney General Nick Brown (@AGOWA) November 3, 2025The second lawsuit is led by the National Council of Nonprofits and also includes labor unions, nonprofit organizations, and cities, such as Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, and Albuquerque. The complaint argues that the new rule violates the Higher Education Act, which says nonprofit and government employees are eligible for PSLF.Diane Yentel, president and CEO of the National Council of Nonprofits, said in a statement that contrary to law, the regulation allows current and future administrations to change PSLF eligibility according to their priorities or ideology, inviting government overreach and abuse and creating instability that will undermine the programs success. This must not stand.Under Secretary of Education Nicholas Kent claimed in his own statement that the department would apply the rule neutrally. He called it unconscionable that the plaintiffs are standing up for criminal activity.This is a commonsense reform that will stop taxpayer dollars from subsidizing organizations involved in terrorism, child trafficking, and transgender procedures that are doing irreversible harm to children, he said. More lawsuits against the rule are likely coming, Politico reports. Donald Trump initially signalled his intention to overhaul the PSLF program back in March when he issued the executive order Restoring Public Service Loan Forgiveness. The order claimed that the Biden administration had abused the program and denigrated non-profits by suggesting that the program could push students into organizations that hide under the umbrella of a non-profit designation and degrade our national interest, thus requiring additional Federal funding to correct the negative societal effects caused by these organizations federally subsidized wrongdoing.The order directed Secretary of EducationLinda McMahonto define public service to exclude organizations that he disagrees with or that have a substantial illegal purpose. His examples included language that echoes his rhetoric against the trans community: child abuse, including the chemical and surgical castration or mutilation of children or the trafficking of children to so-called transgender sanctuary States for purposes of emancipation from their lawful parents, in violation of applicable law. Theyll also target organizations with a pattern of aiding and abetting illegal discrimination, which has been the same language used to suggest that supporting trans children is in violation of Title IX or that diversity, inclusion, and equity (DEI) programs discriminate against dominant groups like white people and men.That executive order was a list of Trumps demands for new policies. Thefinal rule rolled outby the ED last week represents the first implementation of those demands as actual policy.The PSLF program was created under Republican President George W. Bush in 2007 as a result of the College Cost Reduction and Access Act. Graduates who worked in approved government or non-profit jobs could have their loans forgiven after making 120 qualifying payments over a span of 10 years. The PSLF program was designed to encourage graduates to take jobs in needed fields and to support communities in the United States by providing economic stability through the forgiveness of student loans, even when high-paying jobs werent always available.Trumps order and the EDs new rule have been criticized as a political move to attack certain groups, rather than an attempt to improve the program in any way.This rule is simply about bullying LGBTQ+ people and nonprofits and other progressive groups and making life more difficult for those whoDonaldTrumpdislikes, senior legal writer for the Human Rights Campaign, Luis Vasquez, toldThe Advocate. The result is that it would keep talented people from pursuing careers in public service, fearing that they may suddenly lose eligibility for this program on a whim.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

When the nine U.S. Supreme Court justices meet behind closed doors on Friday, the justices will decide whether to hear an appeal from former Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis, a name that became synonymous with anti-LGBTQ+ attitudes to marriage equality a decade ago. Davis, who refused to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples after Obergefell v. Hodges made marriage equality the law of the land in 2015, has asked the court not only to overturn her financial settlement in a civil case loss in lower courts but also to reconsider the landmark ruling itself.Keep up with the latest in LGBTQ+ news and politics. Sign up for The Advocate's email newsletter.While Daviss petition centers on whether she can be held personally liable for emotional-distress damages, her legal team is also urging the justices to revisit the constitutional right to marry. For those who remember the culture war that surrounded Daviss defiance, the possibility that her name might again appear on the Supreme Court docket has reignited deep anxiety across the LGBTQ+ community.Related: Amy Coney Barrett, conservative panelists discuss overturning marriage equalityIn separate interviews with The Advocate, Jim Obergefell, the plaintiff whose name now defines that right, and GLAD Law legal director Josh Rovenger described the moment as both surreal and revealing. One is the man who stood before the Court ten years ago and won the right to have his marriage recognized. The other works at the organization that helped secure that victory. Both see the Davis petition not just as a legal maneuver but as a test of whether the country can sustain a principle it once declared settled.A narrow case, shoehorning a broad agendaRovenger explained what this case is and what it isnt. This is a narrow case with a technical legal question, he said, emphasizing that it concerns emotional-distress damages and qualified immunity, not marriage equality itself. Attorneys who want to overturn Obergefell are trying to shoehorn that into a very narrow case.Davis, a former Rowan County clerk, was found liable for denying marriage licenses to same-sex couples in violation of clearly established law. A jury awarded damages to those couples, and the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the decision. Daviss petition now asks the Supreme Court to review that ruling, Rovinger explained. While she has framed the case as one about her religious freedom, Rovenger said the issue before the Court remains technical.Related: Kim Davis is petitioning the Supreme Court to overturn marriage equalityThe Supreme Court receives thousands of petitions a year, he said. It would really be anomalous for them to take a case with such a narrow fact pattern and use it to revisit Obergefell.Still, Rovenger acknowledged why people are uneasy. Given the rollback of rights weve seen in other areas, Dobbs being the most prominent, that fear makes sense, he said. But this case is not the vehicle for that kind of sweeping reversal.The limits of the Respect for Marriage ActPart of the current confusion, Rovenger said, stems from uncertainty about how the Respect for Marriage Act interacts with the Obergefell decision. The 2022 law, signed by President Joe Biden, requires states and the federal government to recognize marriages performed in other states. However, it does not compel every state to issue marriage licenses if Obergefell were to be overturned.In a world where Obergefell didnt exist, he said, a couple married in one state would still have their marriage recognized federally and by other states, but not necessarily be able to marry everywhere. He called that distinction significant, not only for its practical consequences but for what it would signal about equality itself.Related: Southern Baptists urge Supreme Court to overturn marriage equalityA patchwork approach across states, he said, is fundamentally different from a nationwide right.Rovenger also pointed to the Supreme Courts own language on reliance interests the idea that people build their lives on the stability of established rights. Trump-appointed Justice Amy Coney Barrett, he noted, has recently said marriage equality has created such interests, making it less likely to be undone. Barrett had told the New York Times that Obergefell created concrete reliance interests.Those interests, Rovinger said, remain one of the critical factors the Court considers when deciding whether to revisit precedent. According to Gallup, 68 percent of Americans support marriage equality.Jim Obergefell: Disgusted by this twisting of religious freedomFor Jim Obergefell, the case is personal. He said he was "disgusted" that his fellow citizens would work against another group's well-being and happiness, using religious liberty as an excuse.This modern version of religious freedom this belief that ones personal religion trumps everything else is a twisting and perverting of what our founders intended, he said.Obergefell said Daviss refusal to follow the law was emblematic of a broader problem: public officials placing private faith above civic duty. She swore an oath to serve all people, he said. And yet she used her government position to persecute others.Related: Samuel Alito 'not suggesting' marriage equality should be overturnedHis frustration extends to the justices themselves and their recent decisions, which have often ignored established understandings of the law. Justice Clarence Thomas recently said that past decisions "aren't gospel."Why should anyone feel secure about the right to marry, he asked, when this Court has proven it doesnt believe in precedent? He pointed to Thomass concurrence in the ruling that overturned Roe v. WadeRoe v. Wade, Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization. Thomas explicitly suggested revisiting Obergefell. One of those justices own marriage exists because of a Supreme Court decision, Obergefell said, referring to Loving v. Virginia, the 1967 ruling that struck down bans on interracial marriage. Thomas is Black, and his wife, Ginny, is white. If this Court overturns Obergefell, then what does that say about their own logic? Obergefell added.People should be concernedObergefell said that the LGBTQ+ communitys fear is warranted. Absolutely, people should be concerned. Im concerned, he said on Saturday. Yesterday I officiated a wedding for a cousin who asked whether they should get married now instead of waiting. My answer was yes.He explained that even with the Respect for Marriage Act in place, states could still move swiftly to block new marriages if Obergefell were struck down. Ohio [where I live] still has a Defense of Marriage Act on the books, he said. If Obergefell is overturned, Ohio could immediately say, no more marriage licenses for queer couples.Related: Kim Davis is trying to get marriage equality overturned by the Supreme CourtObergefell warned that political forces aligned against LGBTQ+ rights have shown a willingness to manipulate electoral systems to maintain power. We have a political party that has turned its back on democracy, he said. Theyre doing everything they can solely to remain in power to punish and to be vindictive.A fragile majority, a durable principleDespite deep pessimism about the Court, Obergefell said he still finds hope in younger generations. They dont see difference the way older generations do, he said. There are millions of people out there who share my values, who believe in humanity, who believe every person deserves happiness and rights. That gives me hope.Rovenger echoed the sentiment, though his version is more procedural. Were all watching closely, he said. Well keep an eye on whether the case gets relisted and on any separate statements that come out. But were not panicking. Were prepared for all possibilities and ready to meet that moment if it comes.Related: Kim Davis is back in court because she doesn't want to pay a gay coupleFor now, the fate of Obergefell doesnt hinge on oral arguments or public hearings but on what happens in a private conference room inside the marble halls of the Supreme Court. Whether the justices see the Davis case as a technical dispute or a cultural flashpoint will determine not only one womans liability but perhaps the trajectory of a right that has defined a generation.If the Court declines to hear the case, the lower-court rulings stand, and marriage equality remains intact. If it grants review, the nation will enter another defining chapter in its legal history.Either way, Obergefells warning lingers: Theyve turned the idea of freedom on its head, he said. And unless we stand up for what it truly means, we risk losing more than marriage, and we risk losing the very promise of equality itself.

Nicki Minaj had some harsh words for fans who criticized her recent social media post expressing gratitude to President Donald Trump.On Saturday, November 1, the Starships rapper took to X to share a screenshot of Trumps Truth Social post announcing that his administration had designated Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern due to the alleged mass slaughter of Christians at the hands of radical Islamists in the West African nation. Related Shocking videos show Nigerian mobs beating gay men amid wave of anti-LGBTQ+ violence Reading this made me feel a deep sense of gratitude. We live in a country where we can freely worship God, Minaj wrote in her post. Thank you to The President & his team for taking this seriously.Reading this made me feel a deep sense of gratitude. We live in a country where we can freely worship God. No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion. We dont have to share the same beliefs in order for us to respect each other. Numerous countries all pic.twitter.com/2M5sPiviQu Nicki Minaj (@NICKIMINAJ) November 1, 2025 Insights for the LGBTQ+ community Subscribe to our briefing for insights into how politics impacts the LGBTQ+ community and more. Subscribe to our Newsletter today As ABC News notes, the U.S. State Department applies the Country of Particular Concern (CPC) designation to nations engaged in severe violations of religious freedom under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998. In December 2020, during his first term in office, Trump designated Nigeria as a CPC. The designation was later removed by President Joe Bidens Secretary of State Antony Blinken in November 2021.Despite the Trump administrations claims that Christians in particular are being targeted in Nigeria, ABC News reports that the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom found last year that extremist violence in the country at the hands of Boko Haram, ISIS West Africa, and the Fulani militants affects both Christians and Muslims across Nigeria.Notably, in Nigeria, where same-sex relations can result in 14 years imprisonment under the 2014 Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act, LGBTQ+ people are frequently subjected to violent, extrajudicial punishment and executions by mobs that typically operate without fear of legal repercussions. Neither Trump nor Minaj had anything to say about the treatment of LGBTQ+ people in the country.The Grammy-nominated artists post was quickly flooded with comments criticizing her for praising Trump, with some posters who identified themselves as Nigerians refuting the presidents characterization of their country.One X user who posts as @hottogobarbie and described themself as a die hard Minaj fan wrote that they might actually have to tap out due to her cozying up to Trump.We live in a country that wants to weaponize religion so YOUR GAY FANS can be pushed into a corner and silenced, X user @hottogobarbie wrote. nicki as a die hard fan, who genuinely sticks besides you through every single scandal, you cozying up to this fucking loser, i might actually have to tap out. we live in a country that wants to weaponize religion so YOUR GAY FANS can be pushed into a corner and silenced. https://t.co/OhhPwlrlTF fuck you (@hottogobarbie) November 1, 2025Imagine hearing that Christians are being MURDERED & making it about you being gay, Minaj responded in a since-deleted post, according to screenshots posted by Eric Daugherty, chief content officer of right-wing outlet Floridas Voice. When my home was swatted multiple times with my innocent toddler inside you being gay couldnt save me.Imagine hearing that Christians are being persecuted & not being able to have empathy for THEM b/c you are blinded by your own personal obsession with Trump. This says more about you than him, my darling, Minaj wrote in another deleted post. pic.twitter.com/0YrbgsSeBG Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) November 3, 2025Minajs initial November 1 post also drew the attention of United Nations Ambassador Mike Waltz. Thank you for using your platform to speak out in defense of the Christians being persecuted in Nigeria, Waltz wrote in an X post. If you ever find yourself in New York, come by the US Embassy to the United Nations. I would love to speak with you in more depth about what our administration is doing to protect Christians freedoms all over the world.The Super Bass rapper responded with a post saying that she would be honored to meet with Waltz. Id be honored. Thank you, Ambassador https://t.co/rKCSmErhLR Nicki Minaj (@NICKIMINAJ) November 2, 2025Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

A cisgender woman in Arizona is speaking out after she says she was harassed by cops in the womens restroom of a Tucson Walmart late last month.Kalaya Morton, 19, of Phoenix, says she and her ex-girlfriend were using adjacent stalls in the stores womens restroom when two male sheriffs deputies entered. Related Lauren Boebert freaks out over a guy in womens bathroom. She was completely wrong. They were flashing lights on our feet and saying, You have to get out of here. You have to come out. We need to talk to you, Morton told Advocate. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today Morton, who identifies as a stud queer slang for a Black masculine-presenting lesbian says she believes a store employee who had been eyeing her earlier reported her to the cops believing she was a man. As the Advocate notes, Arizona law does not dictate that people use public restrooms that correspond with the sex they were assigned at birth.In social media videos and in her interview with the outlet, Morton said that when she exited the bathroom stall, she lifted her shirt to prove to the deputies that she was a woman. But, she said, one of the deputies continued to insist she looked like a man.On February 19, Morton posted a brief video of the encounter, showing the two deputies in the womens bathroom. They came in here in the girls restroom because Im a girl and they didnt think I was a girl, so they tried to come take me away, Morton can be heard saying off camera. @she_luvv.kayy Studs be careful where u pee#tuscon #badcops #sheriff #lgbt #lgbt #stud #notlikeus #cantbestopped #Super #fox #drake #viral #vibe #vibes #newyear #2025 #wtf #fypage #foryoupage #funyy #dance original sound She_luvv.kayy The only men in the womens restroom were the cops, she said.The incident comes amid growing hostility toward transgender Americans on the political right. Republicans, including the president, have framed laws restricting transgender womens and girls access to public facilities like bathrooms and locker rooms as efforts to protect cisgender women and girls. But critics have long argued that such restrictions will, in fact, inevitably lead to greater policing of all womens gender presentation and invasive, potentially dangerous confrontations like the one Morton says she endured.The Pima County Sheriffs Department told the outlet that authorities are aware of Mortons social media video and have launched an internal investigation into the incident. A Walmart representative said that the company is cooperating with the investigationIn a March 1 TikTok video, Morton said she intends to sue. If someone mistakes me for a guy, I usually just correct them or let it go, she said. But this was different. This wasnt just someone calling me sir this was law enforcement trying to remove me from a bathroom where I had every right to be.She said the confrontation left her afraid. Its already enough being Black and facing discrimination, Morton said. Now I have to worry about being harassed just for needing to pee?This isnt just about me, she added. Its about making sure this doesnt happen to the next person who just wants to use the restroom without being harassed.Editors Note: The original article incorrectly described a stud as a masculine-presenting lesbian. It has been updated to correctly define the term as a Black masculine-presenting lesbian.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Kristin Chenoweth is making her big Broadway return with Stephen Schwartz's new musical adaptation of the documentary The Queen of Versailles, which opens on November 9. Still, she's reluctant to talk about the recent controversy surrounding her comments on the shooting of far-right political commentator Charlie Kirk.In a new interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Chenoweth said she's "not a political person" but revealed she endorsed and voted for Kamala Harris in the last presidential election. "Anybody that knows me knows how I believe," she says.However, when asked if she had any comment on blowback from the LGBTQ+ community after she said she "appreciated some perspectives" from Charlie Kirk, Chenoweth declined to elaborate."It was tough on me, but Im not going to answer any questions about it because I dealt with it. It nearly broke me, and thats all Im going to say," she says. "You probably know my heart, so you probably know."Chenoweth, who has long been a vocal ally of the LGBTQ+ community for years, drew criticism earlier this year when she commented that she "appreciated some perspectives" from Charlie Kirk after he was shot and killed at a Utah Valley University appearance.Chenoweth commented on Kirk's Instagram, saying that she was "So. Upset.""Didn't always agree but appreciated some perspectives," she wrote. "What a heartbreak. His young family. I know where he is now. Heaven."Kirk, who has called for the burning of LGBTQ+ flags and has said that "God's perfect law when it comes to sexual matters" includes stoning gay people, was shot and killed while debating with college students about gun violence on September 10.When asked by Spectrum News in a September interview about the criticism she was getting from queer fans, Chenoweth wiped away tears."I saw what happened online with my own eyes. And I had a human moment of reflection, just right then. I came to understand that my comment hurt some folks and that hurt me so bad. I would never" she said."It's no secret that I have been...that I'm a Christian, that I'm a person of faith," she added. "It's also no secret that I am an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. And for some, that doesn't go together. But for me, it always has, and it always will."

LGBTQ+ candidates in Texas, New Jersey, Virginia, and Pennsylvania could make history today as elections are held around the country one year into Donald Trump's second term. Many will be looking to some races like the Virginia gubernatorial race or the New York City mayoral race as indicators of voters' attitudes about Trump, but there are many local elections that can also show how communities are reacting to a year of unprecedented attacks on LGBTQ+ people, especially trans people. Leading up to the election, the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund endorsed 264 LGBTQ+ candidates in 37 states this year, with 171 appearing on ballots in the 2025 General Election. The organization, which supports LGBTQ+ political candidates, notes that this is the highest number of LGBTQ+ candidates endorsed in a non-federal election year, with 253 as the count in 2023.There's no off-year for equality. Every race matters. Every ballot counts," Evan Low, president and CEO LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, said ahead of election night. "Across America, LGBTQ+ leaders are stepping up to fight for our rights, our families and our future. Representation isn't seasonal. It's essential."Check out several LGBTQ+ races that Victory is keeping an eye on today. Jolanda JonesJolanda Jones is a Texas Democrat running for the U.S. House of Representatives in a special election. An out lesbian state lawmaker, Jones recently spoke to The Advocate about her race. I was inspired to run because my constituents asked me to, Jones told The Advocate.If she wins Tuesdays special election in Houstons 18th Congressional District, Jones would make history as the first Black out lesbian woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Shes proud of that milestone but impatient with the fact that its still a milestone at all. Its 2025, she said. It makes no damn sense that were still having firsts.Erica DeusoErica Deuso, a scientist and community advocate, is running for May of Downingtown, Pennsylvania. The bi transgender candidate served on boards including the Pennsylvania Equality Project, PFLAG West Chester, and Emerge Pennsylvania. Deuso is also a member of the Chester County Democrats Executive Committee. She lives in Downingtown with her husband, Michael, their dog, and three cats. She aims to strengthen the towns Good Neighbor spirit through inclusion and collaboration, according to the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund.Jasmine PrestonJasmine Preston, born and raised in Columbia and Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, has a background in safety management and HR. The trans woman candidate is running for mayor of Columbia Borough. She previously chaired the Zoning Hearing Board and served on multiple local boards. "Known for her transparency, trustworthiness, and deep loyalty to her community, Jasmine has always worked to uplift her hometown," Victory states in her bio. Joshua ColeRaised in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Joshua Cole looks to continue serving his hometown in the state's House of Delegates as the state looks to maintain Democratic control over its legislature. The bi Black local pastor is also a husband and father. "Joshs faith and commitment to service guided him as a delegate in restoring historic investments in our schools, public safety, transportation infrastructure, and better access to quality, affordable healthcare," Victory Fund states. Alejandra SalinaOut lesbian candidate Alejandra Salina is looking to become the first LGBTQ+ Latine woman elected to the Houston City Council. The Democratic attorney serves on the board of Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce and Second Mile Haiti, a non-profit that works to provide pre-natal and family care to mothers and families in Haiti.Jim McGreeveyJim McGreevey would be the first out gay mayor of Jersey City. The Democrat has run on a platform including curbing property taxes and rents, controlled development, community policing and public safety, and education. He previously served as the state's governor, a state senator, and state assemblyman. McGreevey stepped down as governor of New Jersey in 2004 after he came out. He also served as mayor of Woodbridge, New Jersey. Luanne PeterpaulThe Democrat became the first queer woman elected to the New Jersey Assembly in 2023. Luanne Peterpaul is looking to keep her seat in the general assembly. A managing partner at Perpaul Law, she previously served as an assistant Essex County prosecutor, where she successfully prosecuted cases against criminals ranging from theft to homicide, before being appointed as a Municipal Judge for the Cities of Long Branch and Asbury Park from 2018-2022. She lives in Long Branch, New Jersey with her wife.

In an era of repressive sexual politics, one filmmaker is calling out the MPAA for slapping her lesbian romance with an NC-17 rating.Director Anita Doran is outraged that her film Maya & Samar, which centers on a love story between a Canadian journalist and a queer Afghan woman, recieved the highly restrictive rating.The fact that we got an NC-17 rating, even though this film is a love story, but many other films where its not a queer love story [dont] get an NC-17 rating, wasshocking, Doron told Variety. This is nothing new. There is a long history of LGBTQ+ movies being saddled with R and NC-17 ratings for queer sex scenes that wouldnt be rated as harshly if they were between a heterosexual couple. Its this double standard especially with depictions of lesbian love that the director found shocking.Ever since I started making films, Ive been waiting and dying to tell stories where female sexuality is not a decoration or titillation for the audiences, but its a story from within the experience and the characters, Doron said. [Maya and Samars love] is chaotic and poetic and its alive. The film follows sex and pop culture reporter Maya (Nicolette Pearse), who comes face to face with her own privilege when she has an affair with Samar (Amanda Babaei Vieira) a queer Afghan woman who fled to Greece to escape the Taliban for whom the simple act of loving another woman is an act of resistance. The films U.S. distributor rights are still up for grabs, but once the MPAA has labeled a film as NC-17, you either get stuck with that rating and have a harder time getting a theatrical release or distribution, or you have to make edits to bring it down to an R rating. The infamous lesbian romance Blue Is the Warmest Color faced this exact dilemma. Couple that with the reality that even though the number of queer movies being released seems to be slowly increasing every year, few people are making sapphic films, and when the odd lesbian sex scene ends up onscreen, its often focused on titrating men, something the people behind Maya & Samar werent interested in.In terms of the representation of queer love, I think over the last few yearsweve seen an increasing amount of more mainstream LGBTQ love stories, producer Laura Lanktree said. But particularly when its lesbian love, it continues to be portrayed through a male lens.So much about Samars life is about oppression. But she had agency in those moments [with Maya]. She was choosing to be free and give her love.For the more explicit scenes that earned the film the controversial rating, Pearse said that she and her co-star had both freedom and control.We had full control over how our characters would express their desire. There was an environment where we had freedom and we had control, she said. There was a sacred space carved out for us to make this what we wanted it to be.

The official White House website has unveiled a page called mysafespace: a place for dems, whose sole purpose is to make fun of Democrats and blame them for the ongoing shutdown.The page is meant to mimic a MySpace blog, with an About me section describing Congressional Democrats as folks who love DEI, transgender for everyone, and handing out taxpayer benefits to illegal immigrants. Related Trash with money: Lauren Boebert called out for her racist Halloween costume They identify Democratic Heroes as Anyone who identifies as a radical leftist. Transnational gangs, illegal immigrants, and use a screenshot from a fake and racist AI video that portrays House Minority LeaderHakeem Jeffries (D-NY) with a Mexican sombrero and a fake moustache.Public defender Eliza Orlins, a former candidate for Manhattan district attorney, called the page absolutely batsh*t insane.I cant believe this is real, Orlins wrote on Instagram, emphasizing, This is a dot gov domain paid for with your tax dollars.And all this went live while the government is shutdown and federal workers and members of the military arent being paid, she said in a reel. Think about the precedent it sets when the president is using WhiteHouse.gov to attack political opponents.This is sickening, she said. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Eliza Orlins (@eorlins)

The FBI arrested two men on Friday who are accused of plotting to attack LGBTQ+ bars over Halloween weekend. 20-year-olds Momed Ali and Majed Mahmoud, along with other co-conspirators, allegedly scouted out LGBTQ+ bars in the suburbs of Detroit as possible attack locations while also practicing using newly-acquired high-powered weapons at gun ranges. Related Leaders of my own party protect sex traffickers, says anti-LGBTQ+ GOP congressman PBS reported that they have been charged with receiving and transferring guns and ammunition for terrorism, with the complaint alleging that Mahmoud had recently purchased more than 1,600 ammunition rounds for AR-15-style weapons. On October 31, FBI Director Kash Patel wrote on social media that the bureau had thwarted a potential terrorist attack and arrested multiple subjects in Michigan who were allegedly plotting a violent attack over Halloween weekend. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today That same day, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) wrote that she is grateful for the swift action of the FBI and MSP [Michigan State Police] protecting Michiganders. This morning, I was briefed by Director Patel on the thwarted potential terrorist attack in our state . As details continue to develop, I am grateful for the swift action of the FBI and MSP protecting Michiganders. Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) October 31, 2025The suspects are believed to have been ISIS-inspired Islamic radicals. Law enforcement officials told CNN that an undercover FBI agent infiltrated a chatroom where they spoke about pumpkin day, thought to be a reference to a planned Halloween attack. Officers began making arrests after a group of people the FBI was monitoring practiced with AK-47s at a shooting range last week.The FBI has also arrested a third person and is questioning others, who are believed to have been involved, all ranging in age from 16 to 20, Alis lawyer, Amir Makled, told CNN.Makled also said that once the facts are reviewed objectively, it will be clear there was never any planned mass-casualty event or coordinated terror plot of any kind.The reality here involves a small group with a lawful interest in recreational firearms, Makled added, not a terrorist cell or organized attack. All firearms were legally obtained and registered. He also expressed concern that the situation is causing an increase in harmful anti-Arab and anti-Muslim rhetoric.He also said the accusations stemmed from hysteria and fearmongering.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

LGBTQ+ youth homelessness is a growing crisis across North America. Although queer and trans youth make up an estimated 710% of the general youth population, they account for up to 40% of young people experiencing homelessness. This disproportionate rate shows that LGBTQ+ youth homelessness is not caused by identity itself, but by rejection, discrimination, and lack of affirming support.This article explores why LGBTQ+ youth face such high rates of homelessness, what life looks like once they are unhoused, and how communities can help.Why LGBTQ+ Youth Are at Higher RiskThe primary driver of LGBTQ+ youth homelessness is family rejection. Many young people are forced to leave home after coming out, while others leave because staying has become emotionally or physically unsafe. Some face emotional abuse, religious pressure, or threats that make home life dangerous.Abuse in the household is another major contributor. LGBTQ+ youth experience higher rates of emotional and physical violence compared to their non-LGBTQ+ peers, often resulting in early departure from home.Institutional discrimination also has a significant impact. In foster care, queer and trans youth are more likely to run away or experience unstable placements and are less likely to be placed with affirming caregivers. Many age out of systems without stable housing or adult support, increasing the likelihood of homelessness.Economic instability further adds to the issue. Without family financial assistance, many LGBTQ+ youth struggle to secure employment, pay rent, or continue schooling. Bias in education, housing, and employment further limits opportunity.What Homelessness Looks Like for LGBTQ+ YouthLGBTQ+ youth homelessness presents unique risks. Unhoused queer and trans youth frequently experience harassment, violence, trafficking, and exploitation. Trans youthespecially Black and racialized trans women and transfeminine youthface the greatest risk.Mental health challenges are common. Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and suicidal ideation affect many LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. The trauma of rejection is compounded by the trauma of surviving without stable shelter.Shelters are not always safe or inclusive. Some LGBTQ+ youth are misgendered, harassed, or placed in unsafe sleeping arrangements. Many trans youth are forced into facilities that do not align with their gender identity, leading some to refuse shelter entirely and remain on the street instead.Why Intersectionality MattersLGBTQ+ youth homelessness is shaped by overlapping identities such as race, gender, socio-economic status, and disability. Black, Indigenous, and youth of color face disproportionate policing, incarceration, and housing discrimination, making it harder to find trustworthy support. Trans youth face the highest rates of homelessness and encounter the steepest barriers to employment, healthcare, and gender-affirming care.Understanding these layered realities is essential for developing meaningful solutions.Barriers to Accessing SupportLGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness frequently struggle to access essential resources. Fear of discrimination prevents many from seeking help. Capacity issues, lack of staff training, or gendered shelter policies can exclude trans and nonbinary youth from services.Access to healthcareespecially mental health and gender-affirming careis limited. Without supportive treatment options, many youth go without care entirely, leading to worsening physical and emotional challenges.What Support Systems Are NeededTo address LGBTQ+ youth homelessness, communities must provide safe and affirming housing options. Shelters should offer gender-appropriate placements, trained staff, and policies protecting residents from discrimination.Mental health support is also vital. Trauma-informed therapy, peer support, and access to gender-affirming care can significantly improve outcomes.Education and employment programs help youth build long-term stability. Mentorship, resume support, job placement, and college planning can open pathways to independence.Legal advocacy is another essential component. Assistance with identity documents, housing rights, and discrimination cases can help young people navigate systems safely.Family reunification efforts, when safe, may include counseling and mediation. While not suitable for all situations, these programs can help some youth rebuild supportive relationships.How Communities Can HelpCommunity involvement is key to reducing LGBTQ+ youth homelessness. Supporting local organizations that provide crisis intervention, mental health services, and shelter can make a real difference. Donations, volunteering, and fundraising all have direct impact.Advocacy matters too. Supporting anti-discrimination protections, youth housing initiatives, trans healthcare access, and inclusive foster care can strengthen safety for vulnerable youth. Speaking out against homophobia and transphobia at home, in schools, at work, and online helps build acceptance.Being a supportive adult can be life-changing. Offering emotional support, respecting pronouns, and practicing acceptance helps build safety and trust.Organizations doing important work include the Trevor Project, Ali Forney Center, True Colors United, Covenant House, Friends of Ruby (Toronto), OUTSaskatoon, and Qmunity (Vancouver). Connecting youth to these services can be lifesaving.Key StatisticsUp to 40% of homeless youth identify as LGBTQ+Family rejection is the leading causeLGBTQ+ youth are twice as likely to attempt suicideNearly one in five trans people experience homelessnessThese statistics highlight how systemic discriminationnot identitydrives LGBTQ+ youth homelessness.A Path ForwardLGBTQ+ youth homelessness is preventable. Solutions require policy change, expanded access to mental health and gender-affirming care, inclusive foster systems, more supportive housing, and strong community networks.This issue is not just about housingits about dignity, safety, and human rights. When LGBTQ+ youth have stable homes and supportive services, they are healthier, safer, and able to thrive.ConclusionLGBTQ+ youth homelessness continues because of discrimination, rejection, and lack of affirming resources. But with advocacy, education, community support, and safe housing, we can change the future. Every young person deserves safety, belonging, and opportunityand that includes LGBTQ+ youth.Together, we can create a world where every young person has a stable place to call home.The post LGBTQ+ Youth Homelessness: Why It Happens and How We Can Help appeared first on LGBTQ and ALL.

After a Fox News guest called female soccer superstar Barbra Banda a "male," the NWSL and Banda's team, the Orlando Pride, have issued statements standing by the Zambian forward.As background, last week, Elizabeth Eddy, who is on the roster of Angel City Football Club in the NWSL but hasn't played this year, wrote an essay saying that trans and intersex athletes should be banned from the league for reasons of alleged safety and fairness. On October 31, her teammates, team captain Sarah Gordon and vice captain Angelina Anderson, condemned her essay, calling it racist and transphobic, and saying the team does not agree with Eddy and supports any intersex players who are currently in the league.Now, the debate has reached Fox News, where host Dana Perino spoke with the founder of an anti-trans clothing company about the issue of intersex athletes in women's soccer.Jennifer Sey, CEO and founder of XX-XY Athletics a company that states "biological sex matters, especially in athletics" and says it is "committed to defending women and girls' right to compete on a fair, level playing field" went on Fox News on November 4, to talk about Eddy's essay and her teammates' response.While there, she called NWSL player Barbra Banda, who is a cisgender woman, a "male." On Fox's America's Newsroom, Sey calls Gordon and Anderson's statement a "scathing" and "nonsensical" response to Eddy's essay."The women we just heard from, do they want to compete against transgender males [sic]?" Perino asks Sey."Well, there are several males in the National Women's Soccer League," Sey replies. "They aren't trans identified, they're men with DSDs. In fact, one of the best players in the league is a male, Barbra Banda, who plays for Orlando Pride."Banda, who was born a girl and has lived as a girl and woman her entire life, was left off the Zambian National Team for the 2022 African Championship. While early reports said it was because she had a test showing that she had elevated testosterone levels, her agent later clarified that she had not failed any genetic or hormone tests, and that she was removed from the team after a team doctor evaluated her "physical conditions" and decided not to sign off on her."Nothing, no existing regulations that we are aware of, prevents Barbra's participation," her agent said.FIFA, the world's largest governing body for the sport, said that Banda is eligible to play in the World Cup and it has "never questioned that she is female," according to the AP.See on InstagramAfter Sey's Fox News appearance, both the NWSL and Banda's team, the Orlando Pride, have issued statements praising Banda and standing with her.The NWSL began by noting that Banda was recently named to the FIFPRO World XI, an honor voted on by over 26,000 of her fellow professional soccer players, which "is a testament to her extraordinary talent, relentless work ethic, and impact on our sport and league.""Her contributions to the Orlando Pride and the NWSL have been transformative," the statement continues. "Any harassment or hateful attacks toward Barbra are unacceptable and have no place in our sport, league, or our communities. We stand unequivocally with Barbra and with every NWSL player."See on InstagramOrlando's statement says that Banda is "a superb teammate, player and role model, and we are proud that she represents the Orlando Pride, our fans, and our community.""We look forward to continuing to celebrate Barbra and her future accolades, and to supporting her journey as one of the many incredible athletes in our league."This is, unfortunately, not the first time Banda has been subject to harassment over her gender.In 2024, Banda was named the BBC Women's Footballer of the Year, and author J.K. Rowling attacked her online, saying, "the BBC decided this was more time efficient than going door to door to spit directly in women's faces."At the beginning of the 2025 season, a fan hurled transphobic hate speech towards Banda during a game. The fan was banned from future games.

LGBTQ+ youth homelessness is a growing crisis across North America. Although queer and trans youth make up an estimated 710% of the general youth population, they account for up to 40% of young people experiencing homelessness. This disproportionate rate shows that LGBTQ+ youth homelessness is not caused by identity itself, but by rejection, discrimination, and lack of affirming support.This article explores why LGBTQ+ youth face such high rates of homelessness, what life looks like once they are unhoused, and how communities can help.Why LGBTQ+ Youth Are at Higher RiskThe primary driver of LGBTQ+ youth homelessness is family rejection. Many young people are forced to leave home after coming out, while others leave because staying has become emotionally or physically unsafe. Some face emotional abuse, religious pressure, or threats that make home life dangerous.Abuse in the household is another major contributor. LGBTQ+ youth experience higher rates of emotional and physical violence compared to their non-LGBTQ+ peers, often resulting in early departure from home.Institutional discrimination also has a significant impact. In foster care, queer and trans youth are more likely to run away or experience unstable placements and are less likely to be placed with affirming caregivers. Many age out of systems without stable housing or adult support, increasing the likelihood of homelessness.Economic instability further adds to the issue. Without family financial assistance, many LGBTQ+ youth struggle to secure employment, pay rent, or continue schooling. Bias in education, housing, and employment further limits opportunity.What Homelessness Looks Like for LGBTQ+ YouthLGBTQ+ youth homelessness presents unique risks. Unhoused queer and trans youth frequently experience harassment, violence, trafficking, and exploitation. Trans youthespecially Black and racialized trans women and transfeminine youthface the greatest risk.Mental health challenges are common. Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and suicidal ideation affect many LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. The trauma of rejection is compounded by the trauma of surviving without stable shelter.Shelters are not always safe or inclusive. Some LGBTQ+ youth are misgendered, harassed, or placed in unsafe sleeping arrangements. Many trans youth are forced into facilities that do not align with their gender identity, leading some to refuse shelter entirely and remain on the street instead.Why Intersectionality MattersLGBTQ+ youth homelessness is shaped by overlapping identities such as race, gender, socio-economic status, and disability. Black, Indigenous, and youth of color face disproportionate policing, incarceration, and housing discrimination, making it harder to find trustworthy support. Trans youth face the highest rates of homelessness and encounter the steepest barriers to employment, healthcare, and gender-affirming care.Understanding these layered realities is essential for developing meaningful solutions.Barriers to Accessing SupportLGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness frequently struggle to access essential resources. Fear of discrimination prevents many from seeking help. Capacity issues, lack of staff training, or gendered shelter policies can exclude trans and nonbinary youth from services.Access to healthcareespecially mental health and gender-affirming careis limited. Without supportive treatment options, many youth go without care entirely, leading to worsening physical and emotional challenges.What Support Systems Are NeededTo address LGBTQ+ youth homelessness, communities must provide safe and affirming housing options. Shelters should offer gender-appropriate placements, trained staff, and policies protecting residents from discrimination.Mental health support is also vital. Trauma-informed therapy, peer support, and access to gender-affirming care can significantly improve outcomes.Education and employment programs help youth build long-term stability. Mentorship, resume support, job placement, and college planning can open pathways to independence.Legal advocacy is another essential component. Assistance with identity documents, housing rights, and discrimination cases can help young people navigate systems safely.Family reunification efforts, when safe, may include counseling and mediation. While not suitable for all situations, these programs can help some youth rebuild supportive relationships.How Communities Can HelpCommunity involvement is key to reducing LGBTQ+ youth homelessness. Supporting local organizations that provide crisis intervention, mental health services, and shelter can make a real difference. Donations, volunteering, and fundraising all have direct impact.Advocacy matters too. Supporting anti-discrimination protections, youth housing initiatives, trans healthcare access, and inclusive foster care can strengthen safety for vulnerable youth. Speaking out against homophobia and transphobia at home, in schools, at work, and online helps build acceptance.Being a supportive adult can be life-changing. Offering emotional support, respecting pronouns, and practicing acceptance helps build safety and trust.Organizations doing important work include the Trevor Project, Ali Forney Center, True Colors United, Covenant House, Friends of Ruby (Toronto), OUTSaskatoon, and Qmunity (Vancouver). Connecting youth to these services can be lifesaving.Key StatisticsUp to 40% of homeless youth identify as LGBTQ+Family rejection is the leading causeLGBTQ+ youth are twice as likely to attempt suicideNearly one in five trans people experience homelessnessThese statistics highlight how systemic discriminationnot identitydrives LGBTQ+ youth homelessness.A Path ForwardLGBTQ+ youth homelessness is preventable. Solutions require policy change, expanded access to mental health and gender-affirming care, inclusive foster systems, more supportive housing, and strong community networks.This issue is not just about housingits about dignity, safety, and human rights. When LGBTQ+ youth have stable homes and supportive services, they are healthier, safer, and able to thrive.ConclusionLGBTQ+ youth homelessness continues because of discrimination, rejection, and lack of affirming resources. But with advocacy, education, community support, and safe housing, we can change the future. Every young person deserves safety, belonging, and opportunityand that includes LGBTQ+ youth.Together, we can create a world where every young person has a stable place to call home.The post LGBTQ+ Youth Homelessness: Why It Happens and How We Can Help appeared first on LGBTQ and ALL.

A new policy rolled out by the Pentagon effectively removes a crucial part of due process for military service members facing involuntary separation under Trumps second ban on transgender military members. Those who wish to argue against their separation at a board hearing will now have the final decision made by a superior who is not required to participate in that hearing.The administration knows these service members have done absolutely nothing wrong and that they are being discharged despite years of faithful service, commendations, honors, promotions, and deployment to combat zones across the globe, Shannon Minter, legal director and vice president of the National Center for LGBTQ Rights, told The Advocate. This is a cruel and bizarre attempt to deflect attention from the reality that these proceedings reflect a deeply flawed policy that is harmful to the military and to our country. Related Democrats help Senate GOP pass defense bill with anti-trans provisions When a service member faces involuntary separation from the armed forces for any reason, they are given a chance to contest the decision at an administrative separation board, if theyre enlisted, or a board of inquiry, if they are an officer. Like a court proceeding, service members can be represented by a lawyer, provide evidence that they should not be separated, and have peers speak on their behalf.After that, the board will make a decision based on a preponderance of evidence standard and then make a recommendation for dismissal or retention, which is then enacted by a separating authority, most often, the persons commanding officer. Insights for the LGBTQ+ community Subscribe to our briefing for insights into how politics impacts the LGBTQ+ community and more. Subscribe to our Newsletter today The Pentagons new policy, revealed in an October 8 memo obtained by the Associated Press, affects only service members involuntarily separated under the trans military ban and the memos previously released to enforce it. In those instances, according to the October memo, the boards have no ability to recommend retention for a service member who meets their criteria for being deemed as trans, and the separating authority can now overrule any decisions and recommendations made by the board.After initially introducing a trans military ban during his first presidential term which the Biden administration then overturned Trump signed an executive order in January called Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness, which banned trans people from serving in the military. While it was contested in the courts, in May the Supreme Court ruled that it could go into effect, and trans troops were given a deadline in June to self-identify for voluntary separation. Those who refused to voluntarily separate faced the threat of a dishonorable discharge at a later date as well as a requirement to pay back any bonuses received during their military career. While an estimated 1,000 military members took the voluntary deal, its estimated that the majority of trans service members which could number between 4,000 and 14,700 did not.The Pentagon is now conducting a witch hunt to find trans people in the ranks. If a service member is accused of being trans, then a board will hear evidence and be tasked with deciding whether that person meets the militarys definition of trans, defined by the Pentagon memo as the following: All boards will only make findings about whether a respondent has a diagnosis, history of, or exhibits symptoms consistent with gender dysphoria and, if so, that the respondent should be separated in accordance with reference. Whiletrans service members can apply for a waiver to remain in service, that is only possible if they can prove that they have 36 consecutive months of stability in their sex assigned at birth without distress or impairment, have never tried to transition, and are willing to serve under their sex assigned at birth (which some would argue is simply defined as not being trans). The new memo is additionally cruel in that it includes a mandate that service members must appear at the board hearings in a uniform that matches their gender as assigned at birth. No waivers will be considered for this requirement, and if a service member appears in any other attire the hearing will proceed with them marked as in absentia.As Emily Starbuck Gerson, a spokeswoman for SPARTA Pride, told the Associated Press, the policy is likely to keep some away from their hearings. Theyre already essentially being rigged with a predetermined outcome, and then now youre further penalizing someone for not showing up because they cant wear the wrong uniform, Gerson said. Gerson also pointed out that this policy seems at odds with the merit-based military model that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth pushed during his September speech. It does not account for the service members career history, accomplishments, training, and the necessity to their field, Gerson said.The Pentagons new policy is very similar to one that the Air Force rolled out back in August, which made it the first branch of the armed forces to provide full guidance on removing trans military personnel.This isnt a policy its a shadow process, SPARTA Pride said in a statement at the time, It creates a military that is no longer built on standards and values identity over merit and paperwork over judgement, eliminating transparency along the way.Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

The presidents 47-year-old son, Donald Trump Jr., re-posted a social media message bragging about his 79-year-old fathers testicles.Trump Jr. used his Instagram account to share an X post from 61-year-old conservative podcaster Adam Carolla, which referenced the $300 million White House ballroomthat the president is building. Carollas post said, The real Trump ballroom is the room he gives his balls in comparison to the leg crossing p**sies like [California Gov. Gavin] Newsom and [former President Barack] Obama. Related Mike Johnson has angry outburst when pressed on Donald Trumps bizarre penis comments The post included images of Trump sitting with open legs as well as images of Newsom and Obama sitting with their legs crossed images exist of the latter two men sitting with their legs open as well.Donald Trump Jr.s Instagram share of Adam Carrollas X post bragging about the presidents testicles. | Donald Trump Jr. Instagram screenshotThe size of a mans testicles have long been referred to as a metaphoric representation of a mans strength, energy, or sex drive, and Trump Jr. has expressed his preoccupation with his fathers gonads in the past. Trump has previously bragged to Carrolla that his penis is bigger than his dads.The president infamously defended the size of his penis at the 2016 Republican presidential debate and insulted the size of his male opponents. But despite his bragging, Stormy Daniels, the adult video performer that the president allegedly had an extramarital affair with, has said that the presidents member is smaller than average.

In a historic first for Americas pop-culture repository, People Magazine named a gay man Sexiest Man Alive for 2025.Its a huge honor, actor Jonathan Bailey told the magazine in a suitably sexy cover story. Related Wicked star Jonathan Bailey says a teacher called him a homophobic slur when he was young Obviously, Im incredibly flattered. And its completely absurd, he said, laughing.Bailey shot to popular fame in 2020 with the steamy neo-historical Netflix series Bridgerton, as Anthony, 9th Viscount Bridgerton. By 2025, he had top billing in the critically acclaimed summer blockbuster reboot, Jurassic World: Rebirth. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today The actor and dancer (he studied ballet as a lad) earned legions of young fans in between with his big screen debut in the mega-musical hit Wicked as hetero-camp scene-stealer Prince Fiyero. The sequel, Wicked: For Good, bows in November.Bailey is the 37th pick for the Sexiest Man Alive crown, awarded by the magazine over the titles 40-year history. The first was Mel Gibson in 1985. Standing 511 in the sand, Bailey warms up the gloomy, beachside setting for his cover story shoot south of London with humor, tight tanned abs, and plenty of views of his Calvin Klein waistbands.Within minutes, everyone in the room looks flushed, says Peoples interlocutor, after Bailey, styled in a cable knit sweater, joins her for a glass of Bordeaux for their interview.Its also quickly obvious why the English actor, 37, brimming with charm, wit and almost unfairly handsome looks, has become one of the most irresistible stars in Hollywood. Baileys road to Sexiest Stardom began at age five when his grandmother took him to see a production of Oliver! in London. He secured a talent agent at 15, and hes been working ever since.Baileys wide range includes contemporary theatrical productions like Cock in Londons West End in 2022; King Lear with Sir Ian McKellen in 2018; and a gender-swapping version of Stephen Sondheims Company, which earned Bailey the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical in 2019.In 2023, Bailey received a Primetime Emmy nod for his portrayal of a gay Congressional staffer in Showtimes Fellow Travelers with Matt Bomer. While committed to visibility and representation Bailey founded the charity The Shameless Fund in 2024 to support LGBTQ+ organizations the actor is surprisingly private about his romantic life.He was linked to the actor James Ellis several years ago, but recently has only shared that hes with a lovely man. That was in 2023.Bailey came out publicly in 2018.In a New York Times profile of the actor in 2022, West End director Marianne Elliot described Bailey as the nicest person you could ever hope to meet. But when he acts, he can have an edge, which can feel dangerous in a great way.She also recounted the story of sharing the news with Company composer Sondheim that Bailey would be starring in Cock.Sondheim, she recalled, literally stopped in his tracks, closed his eyes, put his hand on his chest and said, Be still my beating heart.'Subscribe to theLGBTQ Nation newsletterand be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

It's Bailey, babes!See on InstagramA wise woman once described a creative collaborator as "talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, showstopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique, completely not ever been done before, unafraid to reference or not reference; put it in a blender, shit on it, vomit on it, eat it, give birth to it." And that's kind of how we feel about Jonathan Bailey.Following his breakout performance as Lord Anthony Bridgerton on the hit TV series Bridgerton, Bailey has been working hard not only as a booked-and-busy actor, but as an out gay superstar who runs The Shameless Fund organization and continues to reach new levels of success in his career.In the last few years, Bailey has embodied iconic characters like Tim Laughlin on Fellow Travelers, Fiyero in the Wicked movie reprising that role in the 2025 sequel Wicked: For Good and Dr. Henry Loomis on Jurassic World: Rebirth.Now, Bailey can add "Sexiest Man Alive" to that list, too.See on InstagramIn 2025, Bailey became the first out gay man in history to be named People's "Sexiest Man Alive" and appear as the cover star of the publication.Below, an overview of Jonathan Bailey looking way too good in film, television, fashion shoots, and even just casually on social media all in celebration of this incredible milestone by the actor.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 InstagramRead the full cover story of Jonathan Bailey being named "Sexiest Man Alive" on People.

Each year, People picks its Sexiest Man Alive, an honor awarded to that year's hunk who captured the collective attention, not only through his good looks but in the projects he released that year. Imagine my (and the Internet's) surprise last year when they picked John Krasinski you know, Jim from The Office or to give him a bit more credit, The Quiet Place trilogy. While he is excellent to look at, the choice to pick him felt uninspired, even if the goal was to gawk.I love to objectify handsome men as much as the next gay. Frankly, I think we should objectify men more but that's a conversation for a different day. But there are men out there who tick multiple talent boxes, such as acting, singing, and dancing the one person who does all three is this year's honoree: Jonathan Bailey. For years, he's been stealing our hearts in shows like Michaela Coel's Chewing Gum, Crashing, or more recently in steamier roles in Showtime's Fellow Travelers and Netflix's period hit, Bridgerton. He found even more mainstream success after taking on the role of Fiyero in Wicked, which is set to release its extremely anticipated sequel, Wicked: For Good, later this month.While it's excellent that Bailey made history as the magazine's first out queer honoree, it's important to note that People has long prioritized Eurocentric beauty standards. In the 41 years that People has bestowed this annual hunky honor, it took the publication 12 years to highlight a Black man, with Denzel Washington being the first POC inductee back in 1996. Even then, only five men of color have been chosen in the four decades, none of whom were Latin or Asian. It's confusing to me, a self-proclaimed hot man expert, as to how this oversight has been made time and time again. There are so many gorgeous men of color many of whom are queer! If People needs some help choosing next year's Man of the Year, here are a few candidates they should consider:Colman Domingo is not only a queer, Latine, two-time Oscar-nominated actor, but he is also one of the suavest men to ever grace a red carpet. Every single event he's confirmed to attend, the media is chomping at the bit to get a few snaps of his undoubtedly chic look for the evening. There's also Ricky Martin, who has been stunning for at least two decades, and his most recent performance at the MTV Video Music Awards proves that he's still got it. Not to mention Bad Bunny, who has never explicitly stated that he's queer, but he's embraced and has been embraced by the LGBTQ+ community for his staunch allyship in amplifying the violence that our trans sisters have faced and continue to face, not only in Puerto Rico but globally.There's Joel Kim Booster, one of the hottest television actors working today on shows like Loot and the movie he created, Fire Island, which starred some of his other good-looking friends. Omar Apollo (phew, I just felt a wave of heat rush over me when I wrote that), Jeremy Pope (beautiful and talented, also so incredibly nice), Ncuti Gatwa (hilarious, stunning, and looks to be chiseled out of stone). The list can go on forever, but it's important to highlight that their move to have Bailey is one step in a right direction, but I hope that it's not a way for them to tick the DEI box and then go back to picking a milquetoast straight white man when there are a whole host of queer men of color to choose from.In today's political landscape, it feels like society is slowly backsliding. Conventionally attractive white celebrities are becoming the face of major brands like American Eagle see: Sydney Sweeney and Travis Kelce and they are lifted up as the pinnacle of beauty and style, when that's not the case. Queer people, especially queer people of color, have created a culture that gets co-opted by their white counterparts, who then receive all the praise. Representation in the form of being called sexy by a mainstream magazine isn't the end-all be-all for systemic oppression. But it's an effective tool to get the ball rolling.Moises Mendez II is a staff writer at Out magazine. Follow him on Instagram @moisesfenty.Voices is dedicated to featuring a wide range of inspiring personal stories and impactful opinions from the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. Visit out.com/submit to learn more about submission guidelines. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on any of our stories. Email us at voices@equalpride.com. Views expressed in Voices stories are those of the guest writers, columnists, and editors, and do not directly represent the views of Out or our parent company, equalpride.

This week, Maya & Samar director Anita Doran clapped back at the MPAA for slapping her lesbian romance with the dreaded NC-17 rating, pointing out the organizations double standards when it comes to penalizing queer sex on screen.Receiving an NC-17 rating is often seen as a commercial kiss of death, making it difficult to distribute or screen the film. The choice filmmakers face is often to compromise their artistic vision or risk disappearing into obscurity.While its infuriating, its hardly new. In fact, the very first film to ever receive the dreaded and highly limiting rating was the queer film Henry & June in 1990. Since then, many queer films that have frankly depicted sexuality have faced the same fate. Some filmmakers chose to release their films unratedlike Shortbus or Y Tu Mam Tambinto avoid being hit with an NC-17, while others were forced to make cuts, including Boys Dont Cry and But Im a Cheerleader, in order to secure an R rating from the MPAA.But others bravely forged ahead, accepting the rating. Here are nine LGBTQ+ films that were released with an NC-17 ratingand where to watch them.Passages (2023)The most recent film to be slapped with an NC-17 rating is Ira Sachss Passages, which follows a gay German filmmaker named Tomas (Franz Rogowski), whose marriage to Martin (Ben Whishaw) begins to crumble when he enters into a sexual relationship with a young woman (Adle Exarchopoulos). The film received the rating for explicit sexual content, which included both straight and gay sex scenes.Where to watch: MUBIBad Education (2004)Pedro Almodvar is, and has always been, a daring filmmakeras seen in both Y Tu Mam Tambin and Bad Education. While he opted to release the former unrated, Bad Education first received an NC-17 rating for explicit sexual content and mature themes involving abuse. The film follows a filmmaker (Fele Martnez) whose life begins to spiral when his former lover Ignacio (Gael Garca Bernal) reappears with a screenplay based on their shared history at a Catholic boarding school.Where to watch: Rent on Prime VideoBlue Is the Warmest Color (2013)Sapphics tend to have a bit of a love-hate relationship with Blue Is the Warmest Color, in part because of the explicit and prolonged sex scenes that earned it an NC-17 rating. The film follows the romantic and erotic awakening of a French student, Adle (Adle Exarchopoulos), as she embarks on a relationship with a blue-haired butch artist named Emma (La Seydoux).Where to watch: TubiShowgirls (1995)Now seen as a true camp queer classic, when Paul Verhoevens Showgirls hit theaters in the 1990s, it was controversial to say the least. The film follows an aspiring Vegas showgirl named Nomi Malone (Elizabeth Berkley) as she makes her way through the erotically charged and cutthroat world of Las Vegas show business. The MPAA rated the film NC-17 for strong sexual content and nudity.Where to watch: HBO MaxBent (1997)This utterly devastating film from Sean Mathias stars Clive Owen as a gay man arrested and sent to a concentration camp during WWII, where he meets and falls for a fellow prisoner (Lothaire Bluteau). The film not only received an NC-17 rating for sexual situations, but also for graphic violence and disturbing historical content.Where to watch: Roku Henry & June (1990)The queer film that started it all, Henry & June is based on the real-life sexual and romantic love triangle between writer Henry Miller (Fred Ward), his wife June (Uma Thurman), and author Anas Nin (Maria de Medeiros) as they intermingle in 1930s Paris. The film was the first ever to receive an NC-17 rating rather than an X and was given the rating for explicit sexual content.Where to watch: RokuFemale Trouble (1974)When John Waterss Female Trouble was originally released in 1974, the NC-17 rating had not yet been invented, so it was instead slapped with an X rating. It was later reclassified as NC-17 for explicit sexual content, violence, and (our favorite) transgressive humor. The film, which starred Divine, saw the queer icon playing a teen delinquent turned homicidal criminal.Where to watch: Rent on FandangoPink Flamingos (1972)Like Female Trouble, John Waterss Pink Flamingos was originally hit with an X rating, only to be later changed to an NC-17, which it received for extreme sexual content, nudity, and shocking acts of gross-out performance art. If youve seen it, thats hardly a shock. In Pink Flamingos, Divine stars as Babs Johnson, the self-proclaimed filthiest person alive.Where to watch: The Internet ArchiveTrois (2000)Trois, an erotic film from director Rob Hardy, follows a successful businessman named Jermaine (Gary Dourdan) who becomes entangled in a steamy and ultimately dangerous mnage trois with his wife Jasmine (Kenya Moore) and another woman (Gretchen Palmer). The film was given an NC-17 rating for explicit sexual content and nudity.Where to watch: Tubi

Before there were rainbow flags and pronoun pins, queer folks had to get creative. We couldn't just say it; we had to signal it. So we spoke in colors, flowers, and shapes that carried entire worlds of meaning.From Oscar Wilde's green carnation to the pink triangle turned protest banner, LGBTQ+ people have winked at each other throughout history with symbols of survival and reclamations for queer joy.Pink TriangleOnce used by Nazis to label gay men, the pink triangle was reclaimed in the 1970s and reborn as an era of queer resistance. Pain became protest. The pink triangle is living proof that we turn persecution into power.Black TriangleLesser known than its pink counterpart, the black triangle was marked for "a(nti-)social" individuals under fascism, such as Roma, homeless, and alcoholics, as well as lesbians. In some circles, this symbol of state-sanctioned persecution has been reclaimed as a symbol for lesbian pride and solidarity.LambdaChosen in 1970 by Tom Doerr of the New York Chapter of the Gay Activists Alliance, lambda represented energy, change, and liberation, becoming the Greek letter that powered a movement. Never underestimate a symbol that looks good on a protest sign and a silver pendant.Interlocking Gender SymbolsSince antiquity, the symbols for Venus and Mars have represented female and male, respectively. The interlocked symbols, however, became shorthand for lesbian and gay love, and the combined for our trans and nonbinary siblings.Lesbian LabrysAn ancient double-headed axe, once associated with ancient, powerful figures like Amazons and goddesses, became a feminist statement of power in the 1970s. Think of it as the sapphic Excalibur!BianglesBefore the bi flag, artist Liz Nania created the overlapping pink and blue triangles to symbolize attraction across genders. They were simple, sleek, and low-key scandalous.Hanky CodeLong before apps like Grindr, pockets talked for us. Leather and cruising culture in the 1970s gave us a coded language via bandanas. The color of the bandana (ex: light blue for blowjobs) and the pocket placement (ex: right side for giving) signaled to other gay men what the wearer was interested in. Freedom RingsIn 1991, designer David Spada created six colorful metal rings symbolizing Pride. Jewelry that shone with joy!Ace RingWith a quiet signal, asexual folks claim the black ring on the right middle finger. This symbol of ace pride is understated, elegant, and powerfully personal.VioletsThe ancient Greek poet Sappho wrote many erotic poems that referenced violets, making them symbolic of sapphic love. Centuries later, women exchanged them as coded tokens of desire.Green CarnationIn 1890s London, Oscar Wilde asked his dashing followers to wear green carnations to his play, which became emblematic of his queer bohemian lifestyle. Though we don't know whether he intended to use this as a symbol for same-sex love, it became a subtle nod to queerness under an era of decadence.PansyOnce a slur, always a comeback. Though pansy is more familiar as a derogatory term to describe gay men as being "non-masculine and delicate," the Pansy Craze of the early 20th century was a golden age for drag bars and queer-friendly bars. It has also been reclaimed in recent years to remember queer victims of abuse. The Pansy Project, launched in 2005, plants these flowers at "sites of homophobic and transphobic abuse." LavenderNot blue nor pink, but perfectly in between. Once used against the community during the McCarthy era's "Lavender Scare," the color was reclaimed at the start of the modern LGBTQ+ movement as a color of empowerment. Lavender RhinocerosIn 1974, queer activists plastered lavender rhinos across Boston buses. Because if you're going to demand visibility, why not do it with a horn? It's safe to assume the rhino association is because it's strong, misunderstood, and (allegedly) charges only when provoked. Relatable. Safe-Space TriangleThat pink triangle inside a circle? It's not just retro Pride dcor. Developed by EQUAL!, formed initially as an employee resource group at AT&T, the symbol marked places of safety in schools and offices starting in the 1990s. Because every queer kid deserves to know which door is safe to open.From coded flowers to signs of safety, every queer symbol is a love letter to resilience. We've turned shame into shine, secrecy into solidarity, and geometry into pure gay drama.So next time you see a little triangle, a violet pin, or someone with a black ring, remember that it's the personification of our community's struggle and survival over the ages.

Working with gender-expansive and nonbinary clients requires therapists to move beyond traditional binary-focused frameworks and adopt affirming, flexible, and evidence-based therapeutic approaches for nonbinary clients. Gender-expansive clientsthose whose gender identity falls outside traditional male or female categoriesoften face unique mental health challenges, including minority stress, discrimination, and identity-related anxiety. For therapists, understanding these experiences and tailoring care accordingly is essential to providing effective support.Understanding Nonbinary and Gender-Expansive ExperiencesNonbinary, genderfluid, agender, demigender, and other gender-expansive identities challenge the traditional binary of male and female. Each clients experience is deeply personal and may evolve over time. Many face societal pressures, misgendering, family rejection, or difficulties accessing gender-affirming care, which can exacerbate mental health concerns.Therapists should also recognize the role of minority stressthe chronic stress associated with stigma, discrimination, and societal marginalization. Research shows that minority stress contributes to higher rates of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and trauma-related symptoms among nonbinary individuals. By validating clients experiences and creating safe spaces for exploration, therapists can implement effective therapeutic approaches for nonbinary clients and support healthier outcomes.Common Pitfalls in TherapyDespite good intentions, many therapists inadvertently hinder progress by relying on binary assumptions. Common pitfalls include misgendering clients or making assumptions about gender identity based on appearance or legal documents, using assessment tools and treatment frameworks that assume male/female binaries, failing to consider intersectionality including race, disability, socioeconomic status, and sexual orientation, and overlooking the importance of inclusive intake forms, language, and documentation practices. Awareness of these pitfalls is critical to applying best practices in therapeutic approaches for nonbinary clients.Evidence-Based Therapeutic ApproachesSeveral therapeutic approaches for nonbinary clients can be adapted to provide affirming, client-centered care. Affirmative therapy emphasizes validation, empowerment, and respect for clients gender identities. Therapists explicitly affirm the clients identity, address stigma, and help clients develop coping strategies for societal stressors. Trauma-informed care is also critical, as many gender-expansive clients have experienced trauma related to identity-based discrimination or family rejection. Trauma-informed care prioritizes safety, trust, and choice, while helping clients process past experiences in a supportive context. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be adapted to address gender-related anxiety, dysphoria, and depression, helping clients identify negative thought patterns linked to societal stigma and develop healthier coping strategies. Narrative therapy allows clients to explore and redefine their gender identity stories, helping separate self-concept from societal pressures and develop empowering personal narratives. Interventions that target minority stress, internalized stigma, coping with discrimination, and resilience-building also improve outcomes for gender-expansive clients.Practical Strategies for TherapistsTherapists can adopt several concrete strategies to create more inclusive and effective care. Always ask and use the clients chosen pronouns and include pronoun options in intake forms and documentation. Ensure the physical and emotional environment is welcoming, whether in person or online, with visual cues, literature, and signage that signal affirmation. When appropriate, work with families to support understanding and acceptance, providing psychoeducation to reduce rejection and conflict. Support clients in navigating systems such as healthcare, education, or workplaces, and help them access gender-affirming care or resources when needed. Maintaining connections with organizations that specialize in gender-affirming services, peer support groups, or crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ youth and adults also complements the therapeutic approaches for nonbinary clients outlined here.Case ExamplesCase 1: A 17-year-old nonbinary teen struggles with social anxiety due to school misgendering. The therapist uses CBT techniques to challenge self-critical thoughts while implementing an affirmative approach that validates the clients identity and experiences. Family sessions are incorporated to educate parents on pronouns and supportive behaviors.Case 2: A 28-year-old genderfluid adult experiences workplace dysphoria and depression. The therapist employs narrative therapy to help the client reconstruct their identity story, explore coping strategies, and set boundaries at work. Trauma-informed techniques address past experiences of harassment.These examples illustrate how therapists can combine different therapeutic approaches for nonbinary clients to meet individual client needs.Conclusion and Key TakeawaysProviding effective care for gender-expansive and nonbinary clients requires awareness, flexibility, and ongoing learning. Therapists must move beyond binary assumptions and affirm clients identities, recognize and address minority stress and identity-related trauma, adapt therapeutic approaches such as CBT, narrative therapy, and trauma-informed care, create safe and inclusive environments, and advocate for client needs. Engaging in continuing education ensures therapists stay current on LGBTQ+ mental health best practices. When therapists intentionally affirm gender-diverse identities, clients are more likely to feel validated, empowered, and able to navigate life challenges successfully.References for Therapists Working with Nonbinary and Gender-Expansive ClientsRosati, F., et al. (2022). Non-Binary Clients Experiences of Psychotherapy. PMC. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9690436/Brewster, M. E., Motulsky, W., & Glaeser, E. (2019). Working with gender-expansive clients in psychotherapy. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31503335/Pepping, C. A., Cronin, T. J., & Davis, A. W. (2025). Mental Health Care for Transgender and Non-binary Adults: An Investigation of Affirmative Practice, Therapy Experiences and Outcomes. Springer. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13178-024-01065-5Dickenson, J. A., et al. (2023). A Sexual Wellbeing Framework to Address Sexuality in Therapy with Transgender, Nonbinary, and Gender-Expansive Clients. Taylor & Francis Online. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02703149.2023.2229684Matsuno, E. (2019). Non-Binary-Affirming Psychological Interventions. ScienceDirect. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1077722918301020Malpas, J., et al. (2022). Family-Based Interventions with Transgender and Gender-Expansive Youth. PMC. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9829155/Klinger, D., et al. (2024). Mental health of non-binary youth: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PMC. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11465615/Lelutiu-Weinberger, C., et al. (2024). A Pilot Trial of an LGBTQ-Affirmative Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for TGE Adults Living in the High-Stigma Context of Romania. ScienceDirect. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0005789424001552The post Therapeutic Approaches for Gender-Expansive and Nonbinary Clients appeared first on LGBTQ and ALL.