As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, the recent ruling allowing Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey access to the medical records of transgender individuals hits close to home. It is a blatant violation of privacy and a dangerous overreach of power. Everyone should have the right to privacy when it comes to their medical information, regardless of their gender identity or any other factor. The fact that a politician can now demand access to such sensitive and personal records is terrifying.
The argument that this invasion of privacy is for the protection of minors is simply a guise for discrimination and bigotry.… Continue reading
As a Texan, the recent news of the appeals court blocking the state from investigating families seeking gender-affirming care for trans youth comes as a relief. The rule, expanding the definition of “child abuse” in relation to gender-affirming care and mandating child abuse investigations, was a gross overreach of governmental power. In a society where one should be accused of committing an **actual** crime before being investigated, this rule was a blatant violation of personal freedoms.
Gender-affirming care is all about providing support and affirmation to individuals seeking to align their gender identity with their true selves. Professionals engaging in conversations and treatments to assist individuals in their gender journey should not be penalized or subjected to investigations by the government.… Continue reading
Today, I find myself reflecting on the recent news that Biden has issued a proclamation for Transgender Day of Visibility amid Republican attacks on trans rights. As I scroll through various social media platforms, I see the polarizing reactions from both sides of the political spectrum. It’s disheartening to witness the conservative backlash, with some claiming that Biden is attempting to erase Easter, conveniently forgetting that Easter falls on a different day each year.
As a straight male who may not fully grasp the intricacies of the transgender community, I firmly believe that everyone has the right to live authentically and happily without fear of discrimination or judgment.… Continue reading
As I sit here reading about Best Buy offering to screen LGBTQ nonprofit donations after conservative pressure, I can’t help but feel disappointed. It’s disheartening to see a company cave to the demands of a conservative think tank, especially when it involves organizations that support LGBTQ individuals. The fact that Best Buy is considering screening donations to LGBTQ causes is a clear indication of the influence that these conservative groups hold.
The proposal from the National Center for Public Policy Research’s Free Enterprise Institute, urging Best Buy to end its partnerships with LGBTQ nonprofits and initiatives, is alarming. The language used, referring to these organizations as “predatory butchers,” is not only inflammatory but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes and misinformation.… Continue reading
As I read about the Trump-backed MAGA Senate candidate being linked to a gay hookup site, I couldn’t help but shake my head at the hypocrisy that seems to be rampant within the Republican party. The fact that Bernie Moreno, the front-runner for the Senate race, has been endorsed by former President Trump despite his far-right stances opposing abortion access and LGBTQ rights is truly disheartening. It’s baffling how someone can actively work against the rights of LGBTQ individuals while engaging in behavior that contradicts their public persona.
The excuses and explanations put forth by Moreno and his team, such as blaming a former intern for the creation of the profile on the gay hookup site as a “prank”, only serve to highlight the double standards and lack of accountability within the GOP.… Continue reading
Moms for Liberty, what a concept. A group of women who claim to stand for freedom and liberty, but in reality, promote hate and extremism. It’s no surprise that such a group is slowly imploding, as the foundation of their beliefs is built on sand. The recent scandal involving Ziegler and the accusations of rape and spreading hateful ideologies about LGBTQ individuals only highlight the true nature of this group.
It’s truly a sight to see these so-called patriots and Christians exposed for the hypocrites they are. The very ones who claim to be defenders of morality and righteousness are not so squeaky clean themselves.… Continue reading
The recent news about the US threatening to pull aid to Ghana over an anti-LGBTQ+ bill has sparked a lot of controversy and mixed reactions. As I delve into this topic, I can’t help but feel a sense of frustration and disillusionment with the priorities of governments, both in Ghana and in the US. The bill in question not only seeks to criminalize same-sex acts, which are already illegal, but also goes as far as criminalizing identification and supporting organizations that advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. It’s troubling to see such a blatant violation of human rights being considered by lawmakers in this day and age.… Continue reading
As a soldier, the honor of receiving an award for bravery and sacrifice is undoubtedly a moment of validation and pride. So, when Ukrainian soldier Yulia Mykytenko rejected the award after the church annulled her fellow gay soldier’s medal, it speaks volumes about the strength of camaraderie and solidarity among troops. Mykytenko’s powerful statement, “It was my first award. It was valuable to me. But I do not need an award from an institution that does not fully understand what it is like to give up one’s life and, in anticipation of death, defend people and freedom,” encapsulates the essence of sacrifice and the importance of recognition from those who truly understand the sacrifices made by soldiers.… Continue reading
Ghana recently passed a bill making it illegal to identify as LGBTQ+. This news is deeply troubling on so many levels, especially considering the myriad of pressing issues facing the country. It’s astonishing how something as personal and intrinsic as one’s sexuality can evoke such strong reactions and prompt legal action, especially in a country where there are numerous other urgent matters that demand attention.
I’ve always found it perplexing how individuals can become enraged over accusations of being gay, even when it’s entirely unfounded. The mere suggestion seems to elicit a visceral response, leading to heated arguments and sometimes even violence.… Continue reading
The tragic and senseless death of Nex Benedict has left many of us reeling and searching for answers. The fact that the police have not ruled out the fight as a cause of death is both infuriating and heartbreaking. The term ‘fight’ being used to describe the brutal attack that Nex endured seems like a gross understatement. It was not a fight; it was a targeted and vicious assault that resulted in tragedy.
The fact that the police, who are not medical professionals, are making statements about the cause of death without a proper autopsy is concerning. It feels like they are trying to downplay the severity of what happened, perhaps to protect those responsible for Nex’s untimely passing.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker