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
As an Oklahoma student, I am deeply affected by the recent tragic death of a fellow student, Nex, who was a trans individual. The news of Nex’s passing due to bullying is not just heartbreaking but also a stark reminder of the harsh reality that many LGBTQ+ students face every day. Bullying and discrimination should never be tolerated, especially within the education system, where students should feel safe and supported.
The fact that 40 students walked out in protest of the bullying policies at the high school is a powerful statement. It signifies that the younger generation is not afraid to stand up for what is right and demand change.… Continue reading
As I sit down to write about the recent walkout by Oklahoma students in protest of bullying policies following the tragic death of a transgender student, Nex, my heart aches. It is disheartening to see young lives cut short due to relentless bullying and the lack of effective policies to address it. The fact that schools, which should be safe havens for students, often turn a blind eye to bullying or even worse, support it, is absolutely mind-boggling.
The story shared by a parent about their son’s experience of being bullied at school brought tears to my eyes. The pain of witnessing a loved one go through such torment, and the feeling of helplessness in not being able to protect them, is something no parent should have to endure.… Continue reading
As I read the appalling statement made by the Oklahoma lawmaker, Tom Woods, calling LGBTQ people ‘filth’ in the wake of the tragic beating death of a bullied nonbinary teen, I am overcome with a mix of emotions – anger, disbelief, and deep sorrow. How can someone in a position of power and influence spew such hateful rhetoric, especially following a senseless and heart-wrenching tragedy? The insensitivity and lack of empathy displayed by Woods are not only unacceptable but also unworthy of someone entrusted to represent the people.
The fact that Woods justified his derogatory remarks by claiming that Oklahoma is a “Christian state” and citing religious beliefs as a basis for his prejudice is deeply concerning.… Continue reading
As I reflect on the tragic death of Nex Benedict and the aftermath that has unfolded in Oklahoma, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of sorrow and anger. The fact that a young individual faced months of bullying and ultimately lost their life is heartbreaking. Regardless of the specific circumstances surrounding Nex’s death, the reality is that hate and discrimination played a role in this tragedy.
The idea that elected officials in Oklahoma would refer to LGBTQ+ individuals as “filth” is not only appalling but indicative of a much larger issue at hand. Hate has long been a foundational principle in Oklahoma, as evidenced by the historical injustices faced by Indigenous Peoples, African Americans, poor people, and the LGBTQ+ community.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker