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GLAAD Board Members Reality TV Ask

GLAAD Board members Peppermint & Frankie Grande together with a coalition of LGBTQ celebrities, advocates & allies have called on producers, casting directors & creators to embrace authentic, diverse LGBTQ representation across the Reality Television genre. Peppermint stated, “I think there needs to be an industry wide change, not just casting & I'll use my experience on The Traitors as an example…I wanted so desperately to be able to show the rest of the world, the rest of the audience, the rest of the viewership that trans people are just like anybody else. I think that really does reflect how a lot of trans people feel right now. I really would love for producers & people who create these shows to give people the opportunity to see the beauty in the relationships that trans people form. It's all about managing relationships & trans people deserve to be a part of the story. The world needs to see that & I think reality TV is a great place to do it.” Frankie Grande concluded, “It's the responsibility of casting directors, producers to make sure that there is inclusivity within our community represented on the show. Otherwise, we're a monolith. Otherwise, I am representing the entire queer community…There is a formula that has been in place for decades that is no longer working for our community. It is no longer representing the world & the people that are watching your shows.” Celebrity signers who joined to launch the open letter included Alan Cumming, Monét X Change, Bob The Drag Queen, Britney Haynes, Derrick Levasseur, Jazz Jennings, Elliot Page, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Christian Siriano & more. 
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PA High Court Affirms Parental Status

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has issued a major ruling protecting a lesbian mother’s parental status & affirming the recognition of legal parentage for children born through assisted reproduction. “A couples’ decision to have a baby together is often profoundly intimate & may not be so easily reduced to a transaction," stated the high court in this landmark decision establishing a legal standard. In the case Glover v. Junior the state Supreme Court affirmed a lower court ruling that Junior had established legal parentage of the couple’s child & that their subsequent separation & divorce did not change the fact that Junior is her child’s parent. Polly Crozier, Director of Family Advocacy at GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders stated, “Having a secure legal parent-child relationship is critical to a child’s wellbeing. Many hopeful parents across Pennsylvania – including many LGBTQ+ people – are building or seeking to build loving, stable families through assisted reproduction. With this decision the Court has not only, importantly, affirmed that Nicole Junior is a parent to her child, it rightfully advances application of Pennsylvania common law so that a child born through assisted reproduction isn’t stripped of a loving parent.” Shannon Minter, NCLR’s Legal Director concluded, “Children born through assisted reproduction deserve the same security and stability as other children. This decision from the Pennsylvania Supreme Court will ensure that families created through assisted reproduction have clear protections & that lower courts have clear guidance about how to apply the law to these families.” GLAD Law & NCLR along with the ACLU, ACLU of Pennsylvania, Family Equality, Mazzoni Center, Philadelphia Family Pride & COLAGE filed a friend-of-the-court brief in the case. 
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Rise Up NYC Pride ’25 Theme Revealed


NYC Pride | Heritage of Pride a longtime national leader in LGBTQ Pride organizing & advocacy has announced its official 2025 theme “Rise Up: Pride in Protest”. As our LGBTQ community faces increasing hostility & legislative attacks this year’s theme is a reflection of the Pride movement’s origins in protest & is a powerful call to action for our communities & allies to rally & march in defiant celebration, advocacy & solidarity. “Rise Up: Pride in Protest” meets the moment before us & honors the legacy of the first Pride March in 1970 which commemorated the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. I actually marched in the 10th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots & remember my fear of being outed back then & losing my job at CBS. Kazz Alexander, NYC Pride Co-Chair stated, “This year, more than ever, we acknowledge that Pride can be celebrated in many ways, but at the heart of our mission, we recognize that we must also remain steadfast in protest. The challenges we face today, particularly in this political climate, require us to stand together in solidarity. We must support one another, because when the most marginalized among us are granted their rights, all of us benefit. Pride is not merely a celebration of identity—it is a powerful statement of resistance, affirming that justice & equity will ultimately prevail for those who live and love on the margins.” Michele Irimia NYC Pride Co-Chair concluded, “In the face of increasing discrimination, we must continue to push forward. As New Yorkers, we know: Pride is resistance, Pride is activism & most importantly, Pride is for everyone. ‘Rise Up: Pride in Protest’ reminds us that the fight for equality is far from over.” 
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American Education Chainsaw Massacre

With his new executive order 47 has unlawfully attempted to dismantle the US Department of Education & pressures agency officials to violate the civil rights laws the agency is tasked with upholding. Dr. David J. Johns, CEO & Executive Director of the National Black Justice Collective (NBJC) stated, “This executive order to dismantle the Department of Education is a direct attack on public education, democracy & the civil rights of all students. It is a calculated step in the agenda to dismantle public education, funnel taxpayer dollars into private school vouchers & eliminate protections for Black students, LGBTQ+ students, students from low-income backgrounds, students in rural communities & students with disabilities, leaving young people without the support needed to succeed. To be clear, the goal remains changing the rules of the game via policy & subsequent practice to further enrich a small group of extremely wealthy, mostly white men, at the expense of everyone else…” Melanie Willingham-Jaggers GLSEN Executive Director concluded, “Trump’s latest effort to circumvent Congress will have devastating consequences for children & communities. The U.S. Department of Education conducts essential business that sets our nation up for success by ensuring that federal civil rights laws are enforced & that schools are adequately funded to provide opportunity for every student. Donald Trump’s selfish campaign to rob children of their future to pay for tax cuts for billionaires is cowardly. He’s tried to scapegoat LGBTQ+ youth & the growing diversity of the next generation to enact a radical agenda that only benefits the few at the top. We stand united with students, educators, parents & communities in opposing this short-sighted effort to dismantle public schools & leave an entire generation of Americans without the resources & education they need to succeed.” 
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CDC HIV Prevention Division In Jeopardy

More alarming news out of Washington with the Trump administration considering the elimination of the CDC’s HIV Prevention Division & shifting its responsibilities within the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). Dr. David J. Johns, CEO & Executive Director of the National Black Justice Collective (NBJC) stated, “The administration’s attempt to dismantle the CDC’s HIV Prevention Division is not just reckless—it is a direct attack on Black people, LGBTQ+/same-gender loving (SGL) people & other marginalized people most impacted by the HIV epidemic. Defunding HIV prevention will undo decades of progress, forcing states to bear the financial burden of prevention & treatment programs while putting countless lives at risk. The CDC’s HIV Prevention Division has played a critical role in public health since the early 1980s, focusing on preventing new HIV transmissions. Programs like Let’s Stop HIV Together & Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE), which Trump’s first administration launched, were built on the simple principle that we cannot end HIV without focusing on the communities most impacted. Now, they are working to destroy the very initiatives they once championed. With game-changing treatments like PrEP available, we should be expanding access, not defunding the very programs responsible for providing life-saving education & resources.” Sarah Kate Ellis GLAAD President & CEO concluded, “Suggested cuts to HIV funding are disgraceful & wasteful. These cuts will result in more cases of HIV & end up costing taxpayers billions more in new health care costs. Remind your representatives to do their jobs: protect funding they appropriated. Speak out against illegal plans that go against proven strategies & resources that improve everyone’s health, safety & wellbeing. Together we can end HIV when we work to share accurate information & break down all barriers to prevention & treatment." 
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Federal Court Blocks Trans Military Ban

U.S. District Court Judge Ana Reyes issued a nationwide preliminary injunction in Talbott v. Trump that challenged Trump’s transgender military ban executive order brought by LGBTQ legal groups GLAD Law & NCLR. In her ruling Judge Reyes noted that “thousands of transgender servicemembers have sacrificed—some risking their lives—to ensure for others the very equal protection rights the Military Ban seeks to deny them.” Judge Reyes held the ban violates equal protection both because it discriminates based on transgender status & sex & because “it is soaked in animus.” As Judge Reyes further held, “Its language is unabashedly demeaning, its policy stigmatizes transgender persons as inherently unfit & its conclusions bear no relation to fact.” Shannon Minter NCLR Legal Director stated, "The court acted quickly to shield our troops from the harmful effects of this irrational ban. It would have ended careers of dedicated transgender servicemembers & created personnel gaps, leaving others to fill critical roles. The ban's harmful impact & rushed implementation show that it was motivated by prejudice. Our plaintiffs include lifelong military personnel who served in combat in Afghanistan, come from multi-generation military families, & have received honors like the Bronze Star. This ban is unjustifiable & attacks brave servicemembers, recruits & families who sacrifice so much for our country." Jennifer Levi GLAD Law Senior Director of Transgender & Queer Rights concluded, “The Court's unambiguous factual findings lay bare how this ban specifically targets & undermines our courageous service members who have committed themselves to defending our nation. Given the Court's clear-eyed assessment, we are confident this ruling will stand strong on appeal.” 
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Ending Trans Veterans Affirming Care

The new administration has announced that it is phasing out providing gender-affirming care for veterans through the Veterans Administration. Kelley Robinson HRC President stated, “Transgender veterans share the same commitment & the same love of country as all other veterans. They made the same sacrifices & are owed the same respect & care after their service. Despite this, the VA has decided to turn its back on transgender veterans who committed their lives to serving in our armed forces—complying with an Administration hellbent on harming & scapegoating the transgender community. We must continue to stand up for our transgender servicemembers & veterans. We must push back against these attacks until our nation’s policies reflect the values of honor, respect & duty that our transgender veterans embody.” This is just the latest action from the new administrations that abandons our servicemembers & veterans simply because of their gender identity. Earlier this year Trump signed an executive order banning trans people from serving in the military & last month HRC, Lambda Legal, GLAD & NCLR have filed numerous federal lawsuits challenging the constitutionality of the ban on military service by transgender people. Research has consistently found that receipt of gender-affirming care can significantly improve the lives of people who receive it. Every major medical & mental health organization including the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics & the American Psychological Association recognizes that gender-affirming care is medically necessary to support people in affirming their gender identity. Treating American transgender veterans differently simply because of who they are is out of touch with the values of the American people.
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“Black Bag” Smart Adult UK Spy Thriller

It so refreshing to catch a new film to escape from American politics for a few hours. “Black Bag” from director Steven Soderbergh is a gripping spy drama set in the UK & Zurich about legendary British intelligence agents George Woodhouse (Michael Fassbender) & his beloved wife Kathryn (Cate Blanchett). The film begins as Woodhouse is given a week by his superior Meacham (Gustaf Skarsgård) to investigate the leak of a top-secret software program code named Severus & one of 5 suspects is his wife Kathryn (Blanchett) who is also an intelligence officer. He invites the other 4 suspects who are also fellow spies over for a dinner party. The 4 suspects are satellite imagery specialist Clarissa (Marisa Abela) her boyfriend Freddie (Tom Burke) agency psychiatrist Zoe (Naomie Harris) & her boyfriend James (Regé-Jean Page). Dinner turns into a bit of a “Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” scene that adds to the mystique of the film. Pierce Brosnan also has a role as Arthur Stieglitz the agency boss. The intelligence leak in question is around who is in cahoots with the Russians selling info that could cause a nuclear meltdown killing thousands of innocent people. In this film the Russians are still the bad guys & the CIA are still the good guys which under the current political landscape is sadly refreshing. Directed by Steven Soderbergh “Black Bag” is written by David Koepp, produced by Casey Silver & Gregory Jacobs & disturbed by Focus Features. It’s beautifully shot by cinematographer Peter Andrews & edited by Mary Ann Bernard. It’s a smart sexy movie with lots of twists & turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat now in theaters. Watch Trailer
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Wicked Queer Boston’s LGBTQ Film Fest

Boston’s 41st Wicked Queer Film Festival takes place April 4th to 13th with this year's theme “Community is Resistance”. The 2025 program includes over 120 films from around the world acknowledging that through joy, love, education & laughter we can create hope in these dark times together. Screenings will take place at the Brattle Theatre, Coolidge Corner Theater, Museum of Fine Arts, ICA, Mass Art, BFSR Emerson, & Boston University. The Opening Night selections are Allan Deberton’s “The Best Friend” & Todd Verrow & Charles Lum's “Memoriabilia” will screen at the Brattle on April 4th at 6:30P & 9P. Since its inception in 1984 Wicked Queer has been a safe haven for our LGBTQ community to gather, discuss ideas, learn our histories. Most importantly Wicked Queer Film Festival is an opportunity to see ourselves & our lives on the screen. This year’s program acknowledges the vibrancy of our community’s experiences & reminds us that our combined strength is our power. Wicked Queer champions the belief that Queer love & joy is revolutionary & that we will not disappear despite the attempts to eradicate us. The Closing Night selection “Outerlands” from director Elena Oxman screens at the Brattle on April 13th at 6P. Founded in 1984 by film programmer George Mansour Wicked Queer is Boston's LGBTQ Film Festival is the 4th oldest running LGBTQ film festival in North America. So come be a part of Wicked Queer: Boston’s LGBTQ Film Fest & be part of the ongoing story. Tickets go on sale March 28th but you can view the selection now. 
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NYWIFT 45th Muse Awards Gala Event

New York Women in Film & Television present their 45th annual Muse Awards gala luncheon on Wednesday March 26th at Cipriani 42nd Street in NYC. The event begins at 11A celebrating the vision & achievements of women who work in the entertainment industry. Each year remarkable & accomplished women are honored with this prestigious award. It is NYWIFT's flagship fundraising event a highlight in the entertainment industry & is attended by an enthusiastic audience of over 1,200 leading executives from every major studio, broadcast & cable network & film production facility. This year's honorees include the fabulous Pamela Anderson actor, author & host, Marissa Bode actor & activist with the Loreen Arbus Changemaker Award, director & producer Lisa Cortés, producer Celia Costas Mayor’s Office of Media & Entertainment “Made in NY” Award, Amy Entelis, EVP Talent, CNN Originals & Creative Development CNN Worldwide & Versha Sharma Editor-in-Chief of Teen Vogue with the Enid Roth Award for Excellence in Journalism. For 44 years New York Women in Film & Television has presented the Muse Awards annual gala luncheon celebrating women of vision & achievement. New York Women in Film & Television (NYWIFT) advocates for equality in the moving image industry & supports women in every stage of their careers. As the preeminent entertainment industry association for women in New York NYWIFT energizes women by illuminating their achievements, presenting training & professional development programs, awarding scholarships & grants & providing access to a supportive community of peers. NYWIFT is a nonprofit 501c3 public charity & contributions are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law. It is governed by a board of directors elected by the membership. 
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America’s Gender Agenda Obsession

You have to wonder why the new administration has such an obsession with sexuality & gender. Since taking office Trump has signed not only discriminatory executive orders bent on taking away years of civil rights by eliminating diversity, equality & inclusion but also targeting our transgender community. These orders include federal agencies to only recognize a biological, binary definition of sex & authorizing the Pentagon to bar transgender soldiers & sailors from serving. As these discriminatory executive orders are being challenged with 10 lawsuits in the Federal Courts our advocates continue to work to protect our transgender community as bills are being passed across the country attempting to vilify America transgender citizens. In West Virginia Senate Bill 154 recently passed the Senate aiming to restrict instruction related to sexual orientation & gender identity in public schools. In Texas HB 3817 was introduced that would make it illegal for a person to present to an employer or a governmental agency as different from their birth sex. The bill defines this as gender identity fraud. Other legislation concerns the use of pronouns including Oklahoma House Bill 1361 that prohibits students & school personnel from using certain pronouns or alternate names in certain situations & in Missouri House Bill 1085 prohibits public school staff from discussing sexual orientation or gender identity in the classroom. However there is some sanity to report. In Massachusetts Worcester officials approved a measure declaring the second-largest city in the state a sanctuary city for the transgender community & the Cambridge City Council unanimously passed a resolution declaring Cambridge a sanctuary city for transgender & nonbinary individuals.
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Queer Expression Film Fest Spring 2025

Chicago’s Queer Expression Film Fest announced its slate of LGBT-themed feature, mid-length & short films in March, April & May with both in person & streaming events. Now in its 12th year Queer Expression Film Fest announced 11 films with 4 programs streaming between April 9th & May 13th. The films come from eight countries including France, Canada, Iran, Bangladesh, Mexico, Denmark, Serbia & the United States. Queer Expression Film Fest continues in-person screenings during the last week of each month with “Block Pass” from France screens at Facets on March 25th & “Cherub” from Canada screens at Facets on April 29th located at 1517 W Fullerton in Lincoln Park, IL. with both screenings at 7P & are followed by a Q&A talk back in the Facets Lounge. “Block Pass” directed by Antoine Chevrollier is a coming of age film about childhood friends Willy & Jojo who never leave each other’s side. Training at the motocross track is their way to beat boredom. One evening everything changes in this portrait of fathers & sons & best friends forever. Other programs included Best of Fest Shorts April 9th to 22nd, Best of Fest Mid-Length Films April 16th to 29th, Best Of Fest Feature Warm Film April 23rd to May 6th & Best of Fest Feature It’s Always Been me April 30th to May 13th. During these challenging times it’s crucial to support our LGBTQ community. Queer Expression Film Fest is sponsored by Open Space Arts. Tickets for in-person screenings are $15 & tickets for streaming events are $12. 
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Conversion Therapy Heads To SCOTUS

The Supreme Court has decided to hear a case challenging local & state laws banning so-called “conversion therapy” for our LGBTQ youth. This challenge was filed by Alliance Defending Freedom an org classified as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center & is behind numerous targeted legal attacks against our LGBTQ community. The case will be heard next Supreme Court term that starts in October 2025 with a decision expected in 2026. This case comes out of a Colorado law enacted in 2019 that prohibits licensed mental health professionals from engaging in the dangerous practice of “conversion therapy” for youth in an attempt to change their sexual orientation or gender identity & currently over 20 states have similar laws. Kelley Robinson, Human Rights Campaign President stated, “The Supreme Court’s decision to take up this case isn’t just about so-called 'conversion therapy' – it’s about whether extremists can use our courts to push their dangerous agenda, in an effort to erase LGBTQ+ people & gut protections that keep our kids safe. There’s no debate: so-called ‘conversion therapy’ is a dangerous practice, not therapy & it has no place in our communities. These bans exist to protect LGBTQ+ children from harm—period. Attacks on LGBTQ+ rights are the entry point to attacks on all of our rights. The same people trying to legalize abuse under the guise of ‘therapy’ are the ones banning books, ripping away reproductive rights & undermining our democracy. The Supreme Court must uphold the 10th Circuit decision finding that these laws are constitutional.” As we all know kids are especially vulnerable & conversion therapy can lead to depression, anxiety, drug use, homelessness & suicide.
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Arthur’s Whisky Chick Flick With A Twist

Surfing for a decent movie to celebrate Women’s History Month I landed on a fabulous 2024 gem starring Oscar winner Diane Keaton, OBE winner Patricia Hodge & the legendary singer & actor Lulu on Prime Video. I have to admit I’m a major fan of Diane Keaton & will watch anything that she appears in & her performance in Arthur’s Whisky does not disappoint. The film also has a cameo performance with Boy George & a rare appearance with Hayley Mills. Arthur’s Whisky is a smart feel-good comedy about living in the moment. When Joan’s (Hodge) husband dies she discovers he had invented an anti-aging elixir that literally takes the years off. Sharing it with her two friends Linda (Keaton) & Susan (Lulu) the three rejuvenated women waste no time in painting the town red but they soon realize it’s a very different world to the one they remember. The film also features Genevieve Gaunt, Esme Lonsdale & Hannah Howland as the younger versions of the women. The film also stars Screen Actors Guild Award winner David Harewood, Bill Paterson (House of the Dragon), Adil Ray (Blithe Spirit) & winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Lawrence Chaney. This film delivers a LGBTQ twist & throughout feels like the world we’re fighting for filled with diversity, equality & inclusion & reflects on generational society expectations. The Sky Original film was directed by Stephen Cookson, written by Alexis Zegerman & produced by Stephen Cookson & Peter Keegan at CK Films & Pippa Cross at Cross Day Productions. Watch Trailer
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Women's History Month Jazz Events

In celebration of Women's History Month Boston’s newest hot spot “Long Live Roxbury” will present Thursday Jazz Night with women headliners throughout March. Sue Auclair stated, “We're celebrating Women's History Month at Long Live Roxbury with all 4 Thursdays led by women. Join us for the month-long celebration. It’s free admission & parking courtesy of Feldman Geospatial!” The celebration kicked off with guitarist Sheryl Bailey's Quartet & continues with The Rebecca Cline Trio on March 13th, The Teresa Ines Quartet on March 20th & concludes with The Zahili Gonzalez Zamora Quartet on March 27th. Long Live Roxbury Jazz Night takes place Thursdays from 6P to 9P at one of Boston’s newest breweries located at 152 Hampden Street in Roxbury, MA. Next is The Rebecca Cline Trio on Thursday March 13th with Francisco Mela on drums, Keala Kaumeheiwa on bass & pianist Rebecca Cline who specializes in Latin & jazz. Cline studied in Cuba with Jesús "Chucho" Valdés & has worked with the great Jerry González & with Giovanni Hidalgo among others. Then The Teresa Ines Quartet performs on March 20th consisting of Maxim Lubarsky on keyboards, Oscar Stagnaro on bass Steve Langone on drums & vocals & guitar performed by Teresa Ines. Teresa is a captivating Brazilian singer-songwriter renowned for her soulful, warm & mesmerizing voice. The Women's History Month celebration concludes with The Zahili Gonzalez Zamora Quartet on March 27th joined by Samuel Batista on sax, Abner Cabrera on bass & Francis Pena on drums. Feldman Geospatial hosts & presents these weekly free shows that’s becoming the key spot in Boston for continuously supporting the many brilliant & internationally respected musicians who live in the Boston area & New York. 
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Evan Low Leads LGBTQ Victory Institute

The LGBTQ Victory Institute has announced that Evan Low has been appointed the next President & CEO of LGBTQ+ Victory Institute. Low is a former Mayor & City Councilmember in Campbell, California. Low stated, “When I first ran, I faced the same challenges so many of our leaders do—doubts from insiders, attacks from extremists & the pressure of proving that an out candidate could win. But with the support of LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, I was able to break barriers & make history. I was the first Asian American elected to the Campbell City Council & as the youngest out LGBTQ+ mayor in the nation! Across the country, anti-LGBTQ+ politicians are pushing harmful legislation & working to erase our rights. The best way to fight back is by electing more LGBTQ+ leaders who will stand up for equality at every level of government. That’s why Victory Fund is working around the clock to recruit, train & support LGBTQ+ candidates—so they can run, win & lead.” Low replaces Mayor Annise Parker after 7 dedicated & impactful years of service & leadership of this fabulous org. Evan was a member of the California Legislative LGBT Caucus & served as chair from 2017 to 2018 & 2021 to 2022. He also served as Chair of the California Asian American & Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus. He now brings his leadership & experience to the Victory Institute expanding opportunities for LGBTQ leaders & building a more inclusive future for all. Founded in 1993 by LGBTQ advocates & donors the LGBTQ Victory Institute prepares LGBTQ people to run for office nationwide & provides support once they are elected. 
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International Women's Day In 2025

International Women's Day (IWD) celebrated on March 8th was originally called International Working Women's Day. The earliest Women’s Day observance in the USA was held on February 28th 1909 in New York in remembrance of the 1908 strike of the International Ladies' Garment Workers' Union. Every year there’s a theme & this year it’s “Accelerate Action” for gender equality & calling for increased momentum & urgency in addressing the systemic barriers & biases that women face both in personal & professional spheres. At the current rate of progress it will take until 2158 which is roughly 5 generations from now to reach full gender equality according to data from the World Economic Forum & that doesn’t even include the setbacks here in the USA with the current administration bent on dissolving all the achievements we have made in the last few decades. As thousands of Americans take to the streets to protest recent executive orders including the removal of Diversion, Equality & Inclusion from our vocabulary focusing on the need to “Accelerate Action” couldn’t be more vital to our global community. We must emphasize the importance of taking swift & decisive steps to achieve gender equality & call for increased momentum & urgency in addressing the systemic barriers & biases that women face both personally & professionally. Everyone needs to recognize the unique perspectives & contributions of women from all walks of life including those from marginalized communities especially our LGBTQ community. Gloria Steinem stated, "The story of women's struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights." 
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Truth Awards Annual Event Honorees

In a powerful tribute to authenticity the Better Brothers Los Angeles (BBLA) & The DIVA Foundation have announced the honorees for the 11th Annual Truth Awards that takes place Saturday March 15th at the fabulous Beverly Hilton Hotel from 5:30P to 11P. This year’s awards gala will honor the exceptional achievements within our LGBTQ community including Academy Award-nominated director, producer & screenwriter Lee Daniels who will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award & Wendy Raquel Robinson a two-time Emmy Award-winning producer, actress, philanthropist, recipient of the NAACP Image Award & co-founder of Amazing Grace Conservatory will be honored with the Ally Award. Attendees can expect a heartfelt celebration of Black Queer Excellence highlighting the profound impact this community has had on popular culture, public policy & the arts. This year's honorees will also include Gil Robertson founder & president of the African American Film Critics Association to be honored with the Media & Arts Award, Dr. Kimberly Smith's groundbreaking healthcare initiatives will be honored with the History Maker Award, Dr. Leo Moore will be honored with the Bayard Rustin Advocacy Award for his unique approach to health advocacy, global style innovator Larry Sims will be honored with the Business Leadership Award, Brittani Nichols a creative force behind “Abbott Elementary” will be honored with the Breakout Star Award & styling duo Wayman Bannerman & Micah McDonald will be honored with the Andre Leon Talley Style Purveyor Award. Sheryl Lee Ralph, Founder of The DIVA Foundation concluded, "In honoring these extraordinary visionaries, we're not merely acknowledging their achievements we are celebrating the essence of courage in its most authentic form. Their groundbreaking work transcends limitations & invites all of us to envision a world where inclusivity reigns supreme." 
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Sweeping Transgender Sports Ban Fails

The U.S. Senate has voted not to consider a sweeping national ban on transgender youth participation in sports. Despite the current administration’s relentless targeting of transgender people & an anti-equality majority in the Senate lawmakers refused to move the bill forward. The Senate’s rejection of this anti-LGBTQ attack sends a clear message that attempts to legislate away freedoms for LGBTQ people & their families will be met with resistance. Kelley Robinson Human Rights Campaign President stated, “Every child should have the opportunity to experience the simple joys of being young & making memories with their friends but bills like these send the message that transgender kids don't deserve the same opportunities to thrive as their peers simply because of who they are & they are impossible to enforce without putting all kids at risk of invasive questions or physical examinations just because someone doesn’t look or dress like everyone else. We should want all of our kids to have the chance to be on a team, problem solve with others, learn valuable skills & find places to belong. Thank you to the leaders who stood up today, pushed back against those playing politics with young people’s lives & declared that ours should be a nation where every child feels valued.” NCAA President Charlie Baker shared that there are fewer than 10 trans athletes currently participating in college sports. Also discriminatory bans like these come over the objections of advocates for women’s sports like Billie Jean King, Megan Rapinoe, Dawn Staley, the Women’s Sports Foundation & the National Women’s Law Center.
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SAGE 41st NYC Women’s Dance Event

SAGE the world’s largest & oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ older people is presenting their Women’s Dance event on Sunday, March 16th at Henrietta Hudson in NYC from 3P to 7P. Marking its grand 41st anniversary of joy, empowerment & connection this event commemorates an extraordinary legacy that resonates through the hearts of countless women. Get ready to move & groove as DJ Susan Levine takes attendees on a vibrant musical journey, spinning all of your favorite hits from past & present. Whether you’re looking to bust a move on the dance floor, connect with new friends or reunite with old ones this is a fabulous annual event. SAGE is more than just an organization it’s a movement of loving, caring activists dedicated to providing advocacy, services & support to older members of our LGBTQ community. LGBTQ elders fought & still fight for our rights & SAGE will never stop fighting for theirs. Since 1978 SAGE has envisioned a world where LGBTQ elders are valued, have limitless opportunities & thrive leading the way in advocating for policies, services & resources that empower our LGBTQ elders to live openly & authentically. SAGE is a national advocacy & services organization that’s been looking out for LGBTQ elders for decades building welcoming communities & keeping our issues in the national conversation to ensure a fulfilling future for all LGBTQ people. This is a crucial time for our LGBTQ community to come together & be visible. Advance tickets run at all sponsor levels & general admission is $30 in advance & $35 at the door. The SAGE 41st Women’s Dance event takes place at Henrietta Hudson’s at 438 Hudson Street in NYC. 
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GLAAD Board Members Reality TV Ask

GLAAD Board members Peppermint & Frankie Grande together with a coalition of LGBTQ celebrities, advocates & allies have called on pr...

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