Kansas Senate overrides governor’s veto of anti-trans ‘bathroom bill’ • Kansas Reflector

The Kansas Senate has overridden Governor Laura Kelly's veto on a controversial 'bathroom bill', which mandates that individuals use government buildings' bathrooms that match their biological sex at birth. The decision was made along party lines, with Democrats arguing it would harm the state's economy, particularly as it prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Critics of the bill, including Rabbi Moti Rieber, argue it poses a risk to transgender individuals by outing them and potentially endangering their safety.

He went searching for gay life in Boston & came back with a story that hits nationwide - Queerty

This Queerty article explores the changing landscape of gay life in Boston, revealing how gentrification and closures have reduced queer spaces to a few select areas. Despite the presence of many LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly in academic institutions, the lack of dedicated gay neighborhoods and the influx of straight patrons into queer spaces highlight the challenges faced by the community. The article also touches on the generational shift towards digital platforms for socializing, further impacting the traditional bar scene.

Pride Flag’s Removal From Stonewall Violated Federal Law, Suit Says

Trump’s Pride flag removal from Stonewall can’t erase its history

The article discusses the Trump administration's removal of a Pride flag from the Stonewall National Monument, which is seen as a symbolic attack on LGBTQ+ history and rights. The administration's action is part of a broader effort to erase historical markers and contributions of minorities, which many view as an attempt to rewrite American history. However, the article emphasizes that history cannot be erased as long as people remember and fight to preserve it.

Disney World ‘Gay Days’ Paused for 2026, Pride Event Org Can’t Find Sponsors

Disney World's annual Pride Month event, 'Gay Days,' has been paused for 2026 due to a loss of sponsors and logistical challenges. Organizers announced the pause, emphasizing it is not a cancellation and expressing hope for a future return. The event, which has been running for over 30 years, typically attracts thousands of attendees and includes various activities, but has also faced criticism over certain behaviors. Similar events in other locations are still scheduled.

Anna Kjellbin, Ronja Savolainen are a real life ‘Heated Rivalry’ at the Winter Olympics | CNN

This CNN article delves into the real-life 'Heated Rivalry' between Anna Kjellbin, captain of the Sweden women’s national ice hockey team, and Ronja Savolainen, representing Finland, at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Despite their fierce competition on the ice, the two are engaged to be married off it. The article highlights the historic rivalry between Finland and Sweden in women’s hockey, with Finland having more medals but Sweden not to be underestimated.

‘Silence of the Lambs’ Team Reckons With Transphobia Criticism: “There’s Regret”

As 'The Silence of the Lambs' celebrates its 35th anniversary, the cast and crew reflect on the film's legacy, particularly the criticism from the transgender community regarding the character Buffalo Bill. Actor Ted Levine expresses regret over the film's portrayal, acknowledging its harmful impact. The team admits to not fully understanding the implications of their work on LGBTQ+ viewers at the time.

Same-Sex Japanese Dating Reality Show ‘The Boyfriend’ Leads Netflix Japan’s Unscripted Global Push

This article discusses the success of LGBTQ+ dating series 'The Boyfriend' on Netflix Japan, which has led to an expansion of the streamer’s Japanese unscripted slate. The strategy behind the success involves avoiding conventional reality television formulas and focusing on authentic, emotionally engaging content. This approach has resonated with international audiences, demonstrating the effectiveness of preserving local intensity while creating accessible entry points through subtitles and editing.

EU votes full recognition of trans women as women

Let’s go EU!

NY officials raise a rainbow flag at Stonewall before a boisterous crowd after Trump-era removal | AP News

NYC Plans to Raise Pride Flag at Stonewall in Defiance of Flag Removal Under Trump Directive - Gayety

NYC defies Trump!

No more Pride flag at U.S.’s Stonewall Monument honoring the gay civil rights movement | politics | Digg

As US Olympians speak out for tolerance and LGBTQ rights, some face online hate and attacks by Trump : NPR

As U.S. Olympians advocate for tolerance and LGBTQ rights, they face backlash from President Trump and online hate. Hunter Hess and Amber Glenn are among those who have spoken out, drawing criticism from Trump and threats against Glenn. The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee condemns these threats and reports them to law enforcement.

Blind date: ‘We didn’t kiss but we exchanged Instas, which among gay men is close to the same thing’ | Dating | The Guardian

This dating column from The Guardian pairs two strangers, Alfie and Sam, for a blind date. Alfie, a 31-year-old playwright, hoped for a silly softie with whom he could have deep chats. Sam, a 33-year-old tech worker, was looking for someone bubbly and outgoing. They shared American versus British-isms, politics, and dating horror stories. Although they didn't kiss, they exchanged Instagrams, which was considered close to the same thing among gay men. Alfie gave the date a solid 7, while Sam rated it an 8/10. Both expressed interest in meeting again as friends.

Not shocking to anyone with a functioning brain: Trans women don’t have a competitive advantage over CIS women - new study

A new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine refutes the notion that transgender women have an inherent advantage over cisgender women in sports. The meta-analysis, which reviewed 52 studies involving 6,485 participants, found no significant differences in physical fitness metrics between transgender and cisgender women after gender-affirming hormone therapy. The study emphasizes the need for more research to address social, psychological, and cultural factors affecting athletic performance.

Trump admin is trying to deport LGBTQ+ asylum-seekers to countries where they'd be killed, lawyers say

The Trump administration is advancing immigration policies that could deport LGBTQ+ asylum seekers to countries like Uganda and Iran, where they face imprisonment, torture, or execution. Lawyers and advocates say the policies risk removing people from the U.S. to countries where they would be persecuted for their sexual orientation or gender identity. The policies include third-country transfer agreements and aggressive deportation tactics, placing LGBTQ+ asylum seekers at risk despite strong, well-documented claims. Advocates argue the policies mark a dangerous shift away from the U.S.'s obligation to protect people fleeing persecution.

Statehouse leaders twist rules to abuse Kansans in grotesque spectacle of prejudice | Kansas Reflector

This opinion piece from the Kansas Reflector criticizes Kansas statehouse leaders for passing a bill that forces transgender Kansans to use bathrooms based on their biological sex at birth, without public hearings or debate. The author argues that the bill is discriminatory, hateful, and will lead to the persecution and abuse of transgender and gender nonconforming Kansans. The process of passing the bill was also criticized for bypassing normal legislative procedures.

How a trans woman's removal from a restroom tore the world of competitive pinball apart

A trans woman's removal from a women's restroom at a North Carolina pinball tournament has caused significant turmoil within the pinball community. The incident, which occurred when an arcade employee insisted the trans woman use the men's restroom, has led to widespread protests, including resignations from the International Flipper Pinball Association's Women's Advisory Board and boycotts of IFPA events. The IFPA, which has an all-male leadership, has faced criticism for not adequately supporting trans players and for not de-sanctioning the tournament. In response, the IFPA has implemented new policies and procedures to better support trans players and ensure their safety at future events.

‘Do the leg thing’: Mark Carney jokes with Heated Rivalry star on red carpet | Mark Carney | The Guardian

Canadian PM Mark Carney attended a film gala in Ottawa to promote the Canadian film industry, where he interacted playfully with Hudson Williams, star of the HBO ice hockey drama Heated Rivalry. After receiving a fleece from Williams, Carney jokingly told him to 'Do the leg thing,' which Williams did, resulting in both of them grinning widely. During his speech at the event, Carney praised the show's content, stating that it could only be made in Canada, a country that 'celebrates what makes us different.' He also highlighted the importance of supporting the 2SLGBTQI+ community, as depicted in the show.

Transgender Girl Scouts have sold over 71,000 boxes of cookies with the help of journalist Erin Reed

Absolutely heart warming to see the tremendous support given to these scouts!

European Gay Voters Ditching Left-Wing Parties for Nationalists | Instinct Magazine

This article from Instinct Magazine explores the unexpected shift among European gay voters towards nationalist parties. It highlights how concerns about national security and immigration, fueled by the refugee crisis and terrorist attacks, have led some LGBT individuals to support right-wing parties despite their historically anti-LGBTQ+ stances. The article provides examples from Germany, France, Spain, and the UK, illustrating this political realignment and the complex motivations behind it.

Leviticus review – queer desire is a deadly curse in haunting horror | Sundance 2026 | The Guardian

This Sundance horror film explores the deadly consequences of conversion therapy in a small Australian town. The film delves into the supernatural curse that comes with queer desire, portraying it as both a personal and communal threat. The story, directed by Adrian Chiarella, combines elements of horror, romance, and social commentary, ultimately delivering a bold and bittersweet conclusion.

‘Who was this golden creature?’: the stars of London’s black queer nightlife – in pictures | Photography | The Guardian

'Heated Rivalry' lets us believe in anything | Cognoscenti

Sara Shukla's article explores how the show 'Heated Rivalry' has captivated audiences, particularly during the holiday season. The show, about two closeted professional hockey players, has resonated deeply with viewers, leading to widespread fan engagement and even influencing local businesses. The show's impact extends beyond entertainment, offering queer joy and representation, and has been particularly meaningful for closeted athletes. The creator, Jacob Tierney, expresses pride in the show's emotional impact, highlighting the importance of storytelling and its potential to bring about positive change.

Vermont bill would create trust fund for private trans youth clinics

The fund would provide financial support, protect patient information, and help establish new clinics, countering federal threats to transgender youth healthcare.

Americans Are Turning Against Gay People

‘Heated Rivalry’ star François Arnaud addresses online harassment amid Connor Storrie dating rumors