In a groundbreaking revelation, a report from The Williams Institute at the University of California, Los Angeles, highlighted that Oregon stands as the state with the highest per capita LGBTQ+ population in the United States. With 253,300 LGBTQ+ residents constituting 7.8% of the overall population, Oregon takes the lead in embracing diversity and inclusivity. The Advocate, echoing our sentiments, boldly declares, “We hereby dub Oregon the queerest state!” This proclamation is not without merit, especially considering that the national average of queer-identifying individuals is at 5.6%. It s ..read more

In a devastating incident on November 14, 2023, Amiri Jean Reid, a vibrant 21-year-old Black transgender woman, and her friend Kejuan Richardson, a gender nonconforming gay Black man, became victims of fatal violence in Toledo, Ohio. The incident marks at least the 27th violent killing of a transgender or gender non-conforming person in 2023, underscoring the alarming trend of rising violence against the LGBTQ+ community. Toledo police responded to the shooting near Rosedale and Bluff, discovering both victims with gunshot wounds. Amiri died from two gunshot wounds to the head, while Kejuan su ..read more

In the ongoing battle against youth suicide and homelessness within the LGBTQ community, Kalamazoo College alumnus Jonah DeChants ’09 stands as a key figure in the efforts of the international nonprofit, The Trevor Project. As a senior research scientist for The Trevor Project, DeChants has been a prominent voice in major media outlets like NBC News, Time magazine, USA Today, and PBS. His work focuses on providing crucial support for LGBTQ youth in crises, advocating for policies that safeguard their rights, conducting research to enhance services for at-risk individuals, and fostering peer su ..read more

Amid long nights, PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) is set to illuminate the season with their Winter Social on Monday, Dec. 11, welcoming all to join in the festivities. The event, hosted at the Oak Ridge Unitarian Universalist Church, promises an evening of camaraderie and celebration. At 6:45 p.m., attendees will gather for a social time, followed by introductions and more engaging activities kicking off at 7 p.m. The event will conclude at 8 p.m., ensuring a warm and welcoming experience for everyone involved. Oak Ridge boasts an active PFLAG group, convening mont ..read more

In a historic triumph, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, who made history as the first elected female governor in the state and one of the first openly lesbian women elected governor in the U.S., is gearing up for another groundbreaking role. Healey is set to chair the Democratic Party’s Women Governors Fund, an initiative aimed at increasing the representation of women in statewide executive offices. Healey’s ascent to this national position is a testament to her remarkable journey, from her victory as Massachusetts’s first female governor to her new role as a torchbearer for Democratic wo ..read more

In a groundbreaking television documentary set to air next week, TG4 brings to light the untold stories of eight extraordinary female couples who played pivotal roles in the Irish Revolution, liberating Ireland from British rule. Directed by Ciara Hyland, “Croíthe Radacacha” (Radical Hearts) delves into the lives of these women, whose radical politics, feminism, and commitment to freedom have, until now, remained hidden from the pages of history. The documentary sheds light on the relationship between Eva Gore-Booth and Esther Roper, both from Sligo, who fought for justice and edited Urania, a ..read more

As November unfolds, we dedicate this month’s spotlight to the intersection of Indigenous and queer history, focusing on the remarkable contributions of Richard LaFortune, also known as “Anguksuar” or “Little Man.” LaFortune, a Native Two Spirit and GLBT organizer, has played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative for LGBTQ indigenous people. LaFortune honed his community organizing skills, networking with various causes, including labor, LGBT, environmental, and economic justice campaigns. In 1987, he planted roots in Minneapolis, affiliating with the New Riverside Café and dedicating time t ..read more

In a momentous celebration of its 40th anniversary, The Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective has not only marked the milestone but also unveiled a new name under fresh leadership. The organization is now simply known as “The Health Collective,” reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and evolving community needs. Executive Director David Grant expressed his excitement, acknowledging the significant impact the organization has made over four decades. Established in 1983, The Health Collective has been a pioneer in LGBTQ+ healthcare in Connecticut. Grant emphasized the organization’s role a ..read more

In a groundbreaking move for LGBTQ representation, Toni Atkins, the president pro tempore of the California Senate, has publicly expressed her serious consideration of running for governor in 2026. If successful, Atkins would not only break gender barriers but also become California’s first openly LGBTQ governor. Atkins, a trailblazer in her own right, has an impressive track record, having been the first lesbian to hold the position of Assembly speaker and Senate president pro tempore. Her political journey, from serving as San Diego’s acting mayor to her current role in the Senate, has been ..read more

In a city that stands as a beacon for LGBTQ inclusion, St. Louis has once again secured a perfect score of 100 on the annual Municipal Equality Index (MEI) released by the Human Rights Campaign. This marks an impressive twelfth consecutive year for the city, showcasing its steadfast commitment to creating a welcoming environment for the LGBTQIA+ community. Mayor Tishaura O. Jones, welcoming the Human Rights Campaign to St. Louis for the release of the MEI, emphasized the city’s resilience in the face of challenges, particularly highlighting recent attacks on transgender rights by the Missouri ..read more