The top national and world news since last issue you should know
BY CRAIG OGAN
U.S. Government Settles DADT (has nothing to do with mosquitos)
The Department of Defense has reached a settlement of a class action lawsuit filed by veterans discharged because of their sexual orientation. The “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law resulted in less-than-honorable discharges, which interfered with benefits as well as eligibility for some jobs. The settlement will affect as many as 35,000 veterans and will change the discharge papers to delete mention of homosexuality. A review will be conducted of all those discharges, and if being gay or lesbian was the only reason for duty separation, they will be offered an upgrade. Some 13,500 members have already received upgraded discharges under regular military review procedures. DADT went into effect in 1994 and was repealed in 2011.
China cracks down on erotica
A couple of years ago, the Chinese government banned the appearance of “sissy-men” from television programs. The censors wanted Chinese men portrayed in a masculine light. In a continuation of the “Don’t say, act, look, or write Gay” policy, the government is cracking down on writers because of sexual content in their writing. They are accused of producing pornography. More than 50 writers have been arrested by a “special task force” assigned to target erotic fiction that is printed or appears online. Censors have targeted writers appearing on the Taiwan-based adult fiction website “Haitang Literature,” which allows authors to earn money through tips and subscriptions. A popular genre on the website is “danmei” — romantic and sexual relationships between men. Writers
have been sentenced to 1 to 5 years in prison under a 1997 Chinese that defines obscene material as “publications, films, video and audio recordings, and images containing depictions of sexual acts.”
Congress has plucky 13
The 119th Congress opened in FEBRUARY 2025 with the largest group of outLGBTQ+ members in U.S. history. The new Congress contains 13 legislators who claim that one or more letters of the acronym define their sexual nature. Among them is Rep. Sarah McBride of Delaware, who may be the first openly transgender person elected to Congress; Anglo-named Rep. Emily Randall of Washington is the first queer Latina; and Rep. Julie Johnson of Texas breaks ground as the conservative state’s first openly LGBTQ+ representative. The newcomers join Rep. Robert Garcia; Rep. Mark Takano of California; Rep. Ritchie Torres of New York; Sen. Tammy Baldwin and Rep. Mark Pocan from Wisconsin; Rep. Angie Craig of Minnesota; Rep. Sharice Davids from Kansas; Rep. Chris Pappas of New Hampshire; Rep. Becca Balint, Vermont; and Rep. Eric Sorensen, Illinois. McBride has been locked in a struggle of which bathroom to use and has been fast-tracked into leadership of the Democratic Caucus as “Deputy Whip.”
Marriage equality advocates win Presidential Citizens Medal
Two individuals who were instrumental in achieving marriage equality were awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal at the White House on January 2, 2025. Evan Wolfson, founder of Freedom to Marry, and Mary L. Bonauto, senior director of civil rights and legal strategies at GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders, were among 20 honorees receiving the nation’s second-highest civilian honor. Bonauto, an attorney, started work on
marriage equality in Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Maine. She argued the case in the U. S. Supreme Court that resulted in the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges decision, making marriage equality the law of the land. Evan Wolfson laid the predicate for marriage rights, starting with a visionary law school thesis. He has worked in all fifty U. S. States in organizing local movements, teaching, mentoring, and writing a pioneering political playbook followed by many in the marriage equality movement. The pair joined 18 others in receiving this award from the President, including former members of Congress and U. S. Senate, writers, artists, medical researchers, diplomats, athletes, judges, and educators.
Gay men can train to be Catholic priests
In a nod to reality, the Vatican has decided it’s okay for gay men to consider and apply to the priesthood of the Roman Catholic Church. The church maintains that all those aspiring to be priests understand that priesthood requires, “an orientation towards celibate life.” The guidelines say, “The objective of the training for priesthood in the emotional-sexual sphere is the ability [to] welcome chastity and celibacy as a gift, to freely choose and to responsibly live it.” In a nod to unreality, the guidance stated that sexually active gay men will continue to be denied admittance to seminaries or any other holy orders.
Why oh why, Ohio?
Soon it will be illegal for educators in Ohio to discuss LGBTQ+ issues with certain students — unless it’s to out students to their guardians. Republican Gov. Mike DeWine closeted himself with supporters
and signed the legislation behind closed doors after signing other bills into law in front of news cameras the same day. The new law is based on legislation in other states opponents call “Don’t Say Gay” laws. It prohibits educators from discussing “sexuality content” in grades K-3 and mandates that instruction at other levels be “age appropriate.” The bill also requires school staff to notify parents of “any change in the student’s services, including counseling services, or monitoring related to the student’s mental, emotional or physical health or well-being,” specifically marking transgender identity as a reason for notification. Public schools are also ordered to alert parents to “sexuality content” ahead of time so parents can opt out of the class.
LA Lesbian bar burns out
No religious fanatic has celebrated the devastating fires in Los Angeles, which have claimed many lives and burned across the city. You can bet the fanatics will call it “God’s Will” that a long-time lesbian bar in the Silver Lake neighborhood has closed, saying the fire was the last straw. “The Ruby Fruit,” a tiny and popular wine bar and restaurant serving “the sapphically inclined,” opened in 1980. It was named after Rita Mae Brown’s lesbian-coming-of-age book, “The Ruby Fruit Jungle.” A popular spot on Sunset Boulevard, the owners never moved from the 500 square foot space in a strip mall. In 1980, there were 200+ lesbian bars in the U.S. By 2021, that number dwindled to 24, according to The Lesbian Bar Project. “Ruby Fruit owners announced after a week of fires, “We have come to the heartbreaking decision that at this time, operating The Ruby Fruit is no longer possible due to financial impact from the current natural disaster.” The bar, like other gay and lesbian bars, lost its clientele to social media and competition from other bars which portray themselves as “LGBTQ” friendly with flags, Pride events, and other activities to appeal to an attractive marketing niche.
Palm Springs White Party goes dark
Another queer California icon is apparently going dark. One of the original and largest “White Parties,” the White Party Palm Springs, has announced it is not mounting a party in 2025. The Palm Springs party was one of the first big gay events. It debuted in 1989 as a safe space to gather, meet new lifelong friends, dance, and celebrate uniqueness, diversity, and a beautiful community. The party continued to grow into a major event, drawing prominent names and massive crowds. What started as a three-day event with a single DJ became a worldwide-known festival featuring headliners such as Jennifer Lopez, Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, Kesha, Mary J. Blige, and Kylie Minogue. The event production rivaled that of mainstream festival giants. The owner has only said the party has “paused,” but the website has been taken down, and the office closed. No plans or even a commitment for 2026 have been discussed.
Twin Cities Pride drops Target sponsorship
Twin Cities Pride has successfully surpassed its $50,000 fundraising goal in under 24 hours after cutting ties with Target over the retailer’s decision to scale back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitments. As of press time, the crowdfunding campaign had reached nearly $90,000 from over 1,300 donors. Organizers confirmed that Target will not have a presence at the 2025 festival or parade, expressing disappointment in the company’s move. Executive Director Andi Otto stated that discussions with Target are ongoing, but the festival remains committed to its mission of inclusivity. Funds raised will support essential programs like Rainbow Wardrobe, Artist in Residence, and Rainbow Feast. “Every dollar donated goes directly back into helping us create inclusive spaces,” organizers said. The overwhelming community support underscores the importance of corporate accountability and the power of grassroots action in sustaining LGBTQ+ initiatives. —MA
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Trump issues executive order redefining gender in federal policy
On his first day back in the Oval Office, President Donald Trump signed a highly controversial executive order redefining gender in the federal government. Titled “Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government,” the directive asserts a binary framework of gender based solely on biological sex, eliminating references to gender identity.
The order states that “‘sex’ shall refer to an individual’s immutable biological classification as either male or female. ‘Sex’ is not a synonym for and does not include the concept of ‘gender identity.’” It further defines male and female in stark biological terms, hinging on reproductive anatomy at conception. Transgender, nonbinary, and intersex people are not explicitly mentioned but are effectively erased under the order’s framework.
In his inaugural address, Trump doubled down on this policy, declaring, “As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders: male and female.”
A Campaign Promise Fulfilled
This executive order fulfills a campaign promise that Trump frequently touted during his run against Democratic opponent Kamala Harris. He targeted gender-affirming care, trans women’s participation in sports, and what he referred to as “gender ideology extremism.” His messaging resonated with key voter demographics, particularly Black and Latino men in swing states like Pennsylvania, helping secure his narrow victory.
The implications of this order are wide-ranging and immediate. Within 30 days, all federal agencies must comply, interpreting and enforcing laws based on the newly defined terms of sex. Federal employees are directed to remove references to gender identity from official documents, policies, and communications.
Erasing Protections
The order effectively dismantles numerous pro-LGBTQ+ policies implemented by President Joe Biden’s administration. For example, it directs the State Department and Department of Homeland Security to update all government-issued identification documents, including
passports, to reflect only “male” or “female” as sex markers. The gender-neutral “X” option introduced by the Biden administration in 2022 has already been removed from the State Department website, which now redirects users seeking guidance on gender markers to general passport instructions.
Other consequences include the cessation of federal funding for LGBTQ+ programs, including gender-affirming care, and the removal of policies that protect LGBTQ+ students and workers. The order explicitly requires federal agencies to eliminate all references to “gender ideology” in their operations and materials, barring any acknowledgment of identities outside the male-female binary.
The language of the order frames this rollback as a defense of women’s rights, asserting, “Efforts to eradicate the biological reality of sex fundamentally attack women by depriving them of their dignity, safety, and well-being.” Critics, however, argue that this justification is a thinly veiled attack on transgender and nonbinary people.
Historical Parallels
Many LGBTQ+ advocates are drawing parallels between Trump’s order and past discriminatory policies, such as President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s 1953 executive order banning gay and lesbian federal employees during the Lavender Scare. That policy led to thousands of firings and widespread discrimination, dividing families and driving some individuals to suicide.
“This executive order is even more expansive,” warned legal advocates. “It erases protections and threatens the livelihoods of millions of LGBTQ+ Americans.”
The new policy also raises concerns about access to housing, healthcare, and public accommodations. For example, it bars trans women from accessing women’s shelters and restricts gender-affirming care for minors.
Legal Challenges Ahead
Lambda Legal, one of the nation’s leading LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations, vowed to challenge the order in court. In a strongly worded statement, CEO Kevin Jennings said, “This is a blatant
attack on the rights of transgender, nonbinary, and intersex people. The incoming administration is denying science while making life immeasurably harder for countless Americans.”
Lambda Legal also highlighted its prior victory in securing the first U.S. passport with an “X” gender marker, promising to continue the fight for accurate identity documents.
Other advocacy groups, including The Trevor Project, expressed alarm over the potential harm to LGBTQ+ youth. CEO Amit Paley noted, “This policy misapplies legal precedents to strip away protections for LGBTQ students, putting their mental health and safety at risk.” Research from The Trevor Project shows that affirming environments significantly reduce suicide rates among LGBTQ+ youth—a reality now at odds with federal policy.
A Broader Campaign of Erasure
GLAAD reported that within hours of the order’s signing, LGBTQ+ and HIV-related content was scrubbed from federal websites, including the White House and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD’s president and CEO, accused the Trump administration of censorship, saying, “This action proves the administration’s goal of making it as difficult as possible for LGBTQ Americans to find resources or see themselves reflected under this presidency.”
Despite these attacks, Ellis expressed confidence in the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. “Our community is more visible than ever. This pathetic attempt to diminish and remove us will fail.”
What’s Next?
Advocacy organizations are urging allies to push back against the executive order. “Congress, state leaders, and all allies of equality must reject these attacks,” Jennings said.
As legal challenges loom, the LGBTQ+ community faces a critical battle over the right to exist and be recognized. The sweeping implications of this order underscore the urgent need for solidarity, visibility, and action in the face of erasure. Q
Bill to ban Pride flags in Utah schools introduced by Rep. Trevor Lee
Ultra-conservative Rep. Trevor Lee, R-Layton, is once again setting his sights on Pride flags in classrooms with a new bill, HB77, that would sharply restrict the types of flags allowed to be displayed in public and charter schools. This marks the third attempt in less than a year to curtail the presence of symbols representing the LGBTQ+ community in educational spaces as Utah’s Republican-dominated legislature gears up for its 2025 session.
The bill, titled “Flag Display Amendments,” proposes a list of sanctioned flags, including the U.S. flag, Utah’s state flag, the POW/MIA flag, flags of Native American tribes, military flags, flags of foreign nations, and flags for Utah’s public colleges and universities. Additionally, flags that are part of an approved curriculum could be temporarily displayed in classrooms. Pride flags, however, would not be allowed under the proposed legislation.
The proposal also includes enforcement measures, granting parents the right to file lawsuits if a school or teacher fails to remove a non-sanctioned flag within 10 days of a formal complaint. “Parents could sue the school district if it’s violated,” Lee confirmed in a social media post.
This latest effort closely mirrors a controversial proposal introduced during the final hours of the 2024 legislative session by Sen. Dan McCay, R-Riverton. That earlier attempt sought to attach a Pride flag ban to unrelated legislation about public school employees under criminal investigation, bypassing typical legislative scrutiny. Ultimately, it failed amid concerns over process and content.
A GROWING LGBTQ+ PRESENCE
Recent surveys indicate that Utah’s LGBTQ+ youth are becoming increasingly visible. In a 2023 survey of Utah’s 8th, 10th, and 12th graders, approximately 10.8 percent identified as lesbian, gay, or bisexual, while 1.4 percent identified as transgender. Advocates say that symbols like Pride flags provide these students with a sense of safety and representation in environments that can often feel isolating.
“Visibility matters,” said one LGBTQ+ advocate. “When schools display Pride flags, they send a message of inclusion and support to LGBTQ+ students who may otherwise feel marginalized.”
CONTROVERSIAL COMMENTARY
Lee’s involvement in the legislation has drawn scrutiny due to his history of inflammatory remarks about the LGBTQ+ community. During his 2022 campaign, Lee’s now-deleted social media posts included comments labeling Pride Month as “satanic” and memes suggesting that public school teachers indoctrinate children into
a harmful message to queer students that their identities are unwelcome.”
Implications for Education
Under the proposed legislation, flags representing Utah’s public colleges and universities, such as the University of Utah, would still be allowed, while those for private institutions, like Brigham Young University, would not. The bill also permits the temporary display of curriculum-related flags. For example, a Confederate flag could potentially be displayed during a Civil War les-
changing their gender identities. One of his posts featured imagery associated with DezNat, a far-right faction of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which promotes traditionalist interpretations of family and gender roles. When approached by reporters from The Salt Lake Tribune about his reasoning for introducing the bill, Lee deflected with personal attacks, calling one reporter a “race-baiting activist” and accusing the newspaper of being “communist scum.”
MIXED LEGISLATIVE PROSPECTS
While it remains unclear how much support Lee’s proposal will garner during the 2025 legislative session, the bill is expected to reignite debates over the intersection of free speech, parental rights, and the rights of LGBTQ+ students in public schools. Earlier attempts to limit the display of Pride flags faced significant opposition, with lawmakers citing concerns about vagueness and potential overreach.
“Efforts to ban Pride flags aren’t about neutrality,” said one Democratic legislator. “They’re about erasing LGBTQ+ visibility and sending
son, a point that critics say underscores the selective nature of the policy.
Opponents of the bill argue that it not only undermines LGBTQ+ inclusivity but also sets a troubling precedent for government overreach into classroom decisions. “This is a slippery slope,” said one teacher. “What’s to stop them from banning books or other educational materials next?”
A BROADER CULTURAL BATTLE
The proposed Pride flag ban in Utah’s schools comes amid a national wave of legislation targeting LGBTQ+ rights, particularly in education. Across the country, similar efforts have sought to restrict discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity in classrooms, limit access to affirming healthcare for transgender youth, and curtail the use of LGBTQ+ symbols in public spaces. For Utah’s LGBTQ+ community, the stakes are high. “Every time we see legislation like this, it chips away at the progress we’ve made,” said one advocate. “But we’ll keep fighting to ensure that all students feel seen, safe, and supported.” Q
The Utah Legislature is in session
The Utah Legislature is in session and is considering a number of bills affacting Utah’s LGBTQ+ community.
Unlike the previous few years, legislative leaders did not slam controversial bills through and throw them to the governor for his signature.
Still several bills are already passed through their respective committees and are facing votes by the Utah House.
Here is a list of the current bills and responses from relevant organizations:
HB 77 — Flag Display Amendments
Chief sponsor — Rep. Trevor Lee, R-Layton Rep. Trevor Lee, R-Layton, has introduced HB 77, a bill that would strictly limit which flags can be displayed in Utah’s public and charter school classrooms. The proposed legislation allows only a select list of flags, including the U.S. flag, Utah’s state flag, military flags, tribal flags, and those representing Utah’s public colleges and universities. Pride flags and other symbols of LGBTQ+ representation would be excluded.
This marks Lee’s third attempt in less than a year to restrict flag displays, as the Republican-led legislature prepares for the 2025 session. A similar bill from the 2024 session was unsuccessful. The new version adds a provision allowing parents to sue schools that violate the law.
EQUALITY UTAH:
This bill mirrors a bill introduced in the 2024 legislative session that would have banned the display of flags in public school classrooms, including pride flags. This year’s version would allow parents to sue a school for violating the law. Equality Utah remains engaged in discussions around this legislation.
HB 250 — Pronouns in schools
Chief Sponsor Rep. Nicholeen Peck, R-Tooele Peck is proposing a bill that would prohibit teachers who refuse to use “gender-specific language to accommodate another individual” from being punished by their employers or the State Board of Education.
This comes just weeks after a teacher in Ohio successfully sued the school district for disciplining her after she refused to use transgender students’
preferred names and pronouns.
The Utah bill clarifies that teachers who “in good faith” — or due to personal moral or religious beliefs — refer to a student by their biological sex pronouns or birth name cannot be disciplined regardless of school or district policy.
HB 252 — Gender-affirming surgery for inmates
Chief Sponsor: Rep. Karianne Lisonbee, R-Clearfield
HB 252 proposes banning gender-affirming surgeries and the initiation of hormone treatments for transgender inmates in Utah’s correctional facilities. The bill makes an exception for individuals born with intersex traits.
If passed, incarcerated transgender individuals would be denied gender-affirming medical care but could receive psychotherapy and mental health treatment for gender dysphoria and other co-occurring conditions. The bill also mandates that correctional facilities house inmates based on their assigned sex at birth, prohibiting transgender individuals from being placed in units aligning with their gender identity.
EQUALITY UTAH:
Equality Utah is troubled to see yet another bill focused on trans individuals in the 2025 session. We are particularly concerned about the housing provisions of HB 252, which require individuals to be housed according to their birth sex. We want to make sure that the language of the bill affords Juvenile Justice Youth Services personnel the ability to meet constitutional requirements that flow from the 8th Amendment to keep trans inmates safe and secure while in the State’s care. We appreciate that adult trans inmates who enter the correctional system receiving gender-affirming care will not be deprived of ongoing access to healthcare.
ACLU:
“HB 252 puts trans youth at risk of harm by denying them appropriate housing in correctional and secure care facilities. Oftentimes, trans youth are caught in the criminal legal system due to facing hardships like being unhoused. These children especially need safety and security in their living space. Last year,
the Legislature passed a law restricting housing assignments for trans adults in correctional facilities, with an exception allowing access to appropriate housing after a review by the Department of Corrections or county jail. HB 252 lacks even this minor accommodation. This bill strips power from those best positioned to make housing assignment decisions and instead enacts a rigid, bright-line rule that will put our trans youth at risk of harm and sexual violence. This bill runs afoul of the state’s duty to protect Utahns from harm while incarcerated,” said Ellie Menlove, Legislative and Policy Counsel for the ACLU of Utah
HB 269 — University sexdesignated housing
Chief sponsor: Rep. Stephanie Gricius, R-Utah County Rep. Gricius introduced HB 269, a bill that would restrict transgender students from living in university housing that does not align with their assigned sex at birth. The bill is framed as an effort to “preserve individual privacy” in sex-segregated student housing.
The proposal follows controversy sparked by House Speaker Mike Shultz, who criticized a transgender woman serving as a resident assistant at Utah State University. The university clarified that the housing in question is co-ed and stated that it does not have exclusively male or female residence halls.
Under HB 269, students would be required to live in housing that corresponds with their birth-assigned sex, with exceptions for intersex individuals and those who have undergone sex-reassignment surgery or legally amended their birth certificate.
EQUALITY UTAH:
The bill modifies HB 257 from the 2024 Legislative Session, which restricted access to privacy spaces such as restrooms and locker rooms, by adding higher education student housing as a privacy space. Under the substitute bill adopted in committee, sex-segregated student housing on Utah’s public college campuses is now restricted based on birth-sex, with the original exceptions (birth certificate changes and primary sex
characteristic surgery) being eliminated. The bill maintains provisions allowing universities to offer co-ed, multigender dorm facilities. The state shouldn’t act as helicopter parents to resolve every dispute – universities already have the means to resolve housing conflicts and protect the rights of every student.
ACLU:
The Utah State Legislature has one of the shortest general legislative sessions in the country. Instead of using this valuable time to tackle the real issues Utahns face—the lack of affordable housing, saving the Great Salt Lake, and bringing down the cost of living, to name a few— the state Legislature has continued its attacks on our transgender community.
Trans Utahns have been targeted by our state leaders since HB11 in 2022, making this the fourth consecutive legislative session centered around anti-trans legislation. The Legislature has already restricted the rights of trans-Utahns to use bathrooms and locker rooms in public schools and buildings and for trans youth to access gender-affirming care or play high school sports with their peers. HB 269 is yet another bill in a years-long effort by the Legislature to marginalize the trans community and limit their access to public spaces under the guise of protecting privacy.
If passed, HB 269 would require public universities and colleges to assign housing in sex-segregated student dormitories according to students’ biological sex at birth. This bill attacks our young adults at a time in their lives when they are particularly vulnerable. Pursuing higher education is a big life change meant to teach students how to problem solve and collaborate while being exposed to different points of view and lifestyles. Excluding trans students from student housing spaces hurts both trans and cis students alike and pushes trans students off campuses and potentially out of universities altogether.
History has shown us the dangers of restricting access to housing and services based on certain characteristics. In our country—and even here in Utah—Black students were segregated to “protect” white students, and religious -minorities were refused service. HB269 resurrects this discriminatory logic, targeting trans students in the name of control.
Our state leaders tout their commit-
ment to small government, yet HB269 is nothing but more unnecessary legislation to insert the government into our personal lives. Utah’s colleges and universities have always managed student housing efficiently, ensuring student needs are met without the government’s help. Supporters of HB269 are not concerned with its practicality or necessity. They want to expand their attacks on trans-Utahns, which will only serve to chip away at the rights of all of us.
On January 23, HB 269 was passed favorably out of the House Business and Labor Committee. When first introduced, the bill allowed for a narrow exception for those who have both amended their birth certificate to reflect their gender identity and undergone primary sex characteristic surgery. Lawmakers claim this bill protects women’s privacy, but removing the exceptions reveals their true intent is to erase trans people from public life.
The Legislature’s continued barrage of anti-trans bills year after year has stoked fear and anxiety among our trans community members. Trans Utahns are your neighbors, colleagues, and friends who, like all people in Utah, simply want to live their authentic lives free from discrimination and government overreach imposed by these bills. They want to get a college degree, use the restroom, play sports, and access medical care and live openly and freely.
As Utahns, we must recognize that everyone’s rights are undermined when anyone’s rights are jeopardized. Elected officials are invading every facet of our lives under the guise of protecting us. This isn’t about protection—it’s about using coded language like ‘privacy’ as a weapon for othering and discrimination. Ultimately, these attacks harm trans people and anyone perceived as a threat by our state leaders, who are supposed to represent all of us. The erosion of trans individuals’ rights and dignity harms our entire community.
UTAH HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS:
“Utah’s public universities already have robust systems in place that allow students to request changes to their living arrangements. Conflicts between students should be resolved at the campus level, not overruled by exclusionary legislation that alienates and
marginalizes our transgender community. We are heartbroken that yet another bill targeting our trans community has passed out of the House floor, despite unanimous opposition from our caucus. The bill debated today prohibits trans students from living in sex-designated dormitories that align with their gender identity at Utah’s public colleges and universities. We stand firmly against legislation rooted in fear and harmful rhetoric.
To Utah’s trans community: this is your home. You belong here. You have a community that loves and supports you, and we will continue fighting for your rights, dignity, and inclusion.”
HB 283 — Children in state custody
Chief sponsor: Rep. Stephanie Gricius, R-Utah County
A new bill, HB 283, could put LGBTQ+ youth in state custody at greater risk by prioritizing parental rights over a child’s gender identity and safety. The legislation would prevent courts from restricting parental reunification solely because a parent does not support their child’s gender identity or sexual orientation—even if that rejection contributed to the child entering state custody in the first place.
The bill also mandates that authorities disclose a child’s gender identity or sexual orientation to their parents while they are in protective custody. Additionally, it would require parental permission before state officials can refer to a child using pronouns that do not align with their assigned sex at birth.
Critics argue that HB 283 could endanger vulnerable LGBTQ+ youth by forcing them back into unsupportive or even harmful environments, further limiting their autonomy and access to affirming care while in state protection.
EQUALITY UTAH:
This bill addresses various aspects of foster care placement. Importantly, the bill considers rooming requirements for foster children, taking into account biological gender and relationship between children; prevents a child from being placed with a family who is not supportive of a child’s gender identity or sexual orientation; does not allow support or lack of support of a child’s LGBTQ status from being determinative in custody or reunification decisions, unless potential for harm to a child exists. Q
Building LGBTQ+ community in the Four Corners region under the current presidential administration
In the rural Four Corners region — where Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico meet — Eric Dominguez is creating essential safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. As the founder of Alphabet Mafia Presents, a social group dedicated to queer inclusion, and Recovery Queers, a support network for LGBTQ+ individuals in recovery, Dominguez has become a vital advocate for queer visibility and safety in small-town America.
While Dominguez grew up in the area, he had left and only recently returned.
“I moved back here to the Four Corners because I was struggling with my addiction,” Dominguez wrote in a bio. “I grew up here hiding my authentic self, and I didn’t see many queer spaces in Farmington [New Mexico] when I came back. I was used to having all the
Queer resources and events that big cities like San Francisco provide. So, my gut reaction was to go back into the closet.”
This set Dominguez into a depression, he said.
“I thought if I was feeling this way, others must be too. So I decided to connect to the Queer community and create space for others to connect and celebrate their queerness,” he wrote. “I believe if we all work together to create safe spaces in smaller communities like ours, we don’t have to leave our families and homes to find acceptance in bigger cities.”
Following the 2024 election, Dominguez and his collaborators — Sasha’s Rainbow of Hope and Recovery Queers — organized a Queer Town Hall in Farmington, N.M. The event, attended by the city’s LGBTQ police liaison, provided a
space for community members to voice concerns about a second Trump presidency. The need for the forum became evident after a local barbershop incident, where a queer individual overheard Trump supporters discussing their eagerness to see LGBTQ+ rights erased.
“That conversation brought up a lot of fear for what could happen in our small conservative community,” Dominguez told Sebastian Fortino at the Washington Blade.
The response from local queer residents was swift and emotional. On social media, people expressed fears about their safety, parents worried about their trans children, and some even contemplated leaving the country. Dominguez, despite his concerns, remains focused on strengthening local support systems.
His next initiative, The Gay Agenda Four Corners, will launch soon — offering a website, social media pages, and a weekly newsletter to promote LGBTQ+ events and resources across the region. “Existing as a queer person in small rural communities has influenced change,” he said. “I can focus on fear — or I can step outside my comfort zone, interact with people with different beliefs, and grow together as a community.”
While national policies like Project 2025 cause alarm, Dominguez finds hope in grassroots efforts.
“Conservative friends have told me they think God sent me here to bring our community together,” he said. “I know that’s not the experience in every small town, but here, we’re finding ways to come together.”
New Mexico, in particular, has passed laws making it one of the safest states for LGBTQ+ individuals, with groups like Equality New Mexico advocating for sanctuary protections. And despite the challenges, Dominguez remains committed to building resilience through community. “The only way I’ll make it through the next four years is by finding support in the people around me,” he said.
With his unwavering dedication, Dominguez is proving that even in the most conservative corners of the country, LGBTQ+ people can thrive — not just survive. Q
Salt Lake City, Park City get high rankings for LGBTQ equality. Others get ‘F’
Salt Lake City slipped four points to 96 out of 100 rating in the Human Rights Campaign 2024 Municipal Equality Index. The MEI is a nationwide evaluation of 506 cities on how inclusive a municipality’s laws, policies, and services are of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) people. Park City increased to a score of 85, compared to last year’s 70 rating. Other cities in the state received the equivalent of an “F” grade, with Ogden at 57, Provo at 51, Logan and Orem at 48, West Valley City at 41, , and West Jordan at 35. Orem and Provo raised from being in the bottom three cities in the state because they reported hate crime statistics to the FBI in the past year.
“Even when anti-LGBTQ+ extremists in state capitals are working to undermine their progress, mayors and city councilmembers keep fighting to make sure that LGBTQ+ people in their communities — especially trans people — are supported and lifted up to the fullest extent possible. This year’s Municipal Equality Index shows the results of their dedication, while acknowledging the increasingly hostile environment in which they must govern.,” wrote Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign.
Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City was able to achieve a rating of 96 by getting “Flex Points,” similar to extra credit at school. For anti-discrimination laws, the capital city received 20 out of 30 points, getting credit for nondiscrimination laws for employment and housing, but lacking a law protecting from
LGBTQ bias in public accommodations. As an employer, the city was credited for having a non-discrimination policy in city employment, and an ordinance requiring nondiscrimination policies for its city contractors. This year, the city lost points for transgender-inclusive healthcare benefits
The Salt Lake Human Rights Commission earned the city five points, as did an LGBTQ+ liaison for the mayor’s office. Law enforcement received a perfect score for having an LGBTQ liaison and for reporting FBI hate crime statistics.
Flex points were given for having openly LGBTQ elected leaders, city employee domestic partner benefits, the state policy that forbids conversion therapy for youth, and city services for a variety of LGBTQ demographics.
Park City
“Park City has a well-established reputation as a welcoming town for the LGBTQ+ community,” said Mayor Nann Worel last year. “And we remain committed to listening, learning, and working with the LGBTQ+ Task Force toward continuing to expand inclusivity in our community.”
Park City’s LGBTQ+ Task Force was formed in 2020 to advise on how the City could better reflect its values around inclusivity. In the past, the LGBTQ+ Taskforce has worked to raise community awareness and visibility on the Wasatch back by hosting a Living Library event, organizing a two-session DEI Training for City staff and local stakeholders with Equality Utah, participating in the 4th of July parade, wrapping
the Main Street Trolley in “Ride with Pride” branding for Pride Month, placing progress pride flag banners on Main Street, organizing a Utah Pride Parade entry, and hosting the Queerski event.
“Park City is engaging in the ongoing work of fostering an environment where the LGBTQIA+ community feels included and valued in the community. Although there is still room to grow, this score is something to be proud of, and it personally makes me excited to be a part of PCMC,” said Task Force liaison Browne Sebright.
Ogden
Ogden had similar scores for municipal non-discrimina-
tion laws as Salt Lake, but lacked transgender benefits for municipal employees and an ordinance requiring city contractors to maintain an LGBTQ nondiscrimination policy. City police do not have an LGBTQ liaison. Ogden does have at least one openly LGBTQ elected official and has a human rights commission.
Logan
Logan received points for a non-discrimination in city employment law and reporting hate crime statistics to the FBI. All other categories were rated at zero. This is the first year Logan has been included in the MEI.
The bottom cities received points only because the state of Utah has nondiscrimination policies and protects children from so-called conversion therapy. Q
Tom Higgins — the man who creampied Anita Bryant
Thomas Lawrence Higgins, writer and gay rights activist, carved his place in LGBTQ+ history not only by coining the term “gay pride” but also through one unforgettable act of defiance. On October 14, 1977, in Des Moines, Iowa, Higgins thrust himself into the national spotlight by delivering a banana cream pie squarely into the face of anti-gay crusader Anita Bryant, live on television.
Bryant, who died Dec. 16 at the age of 84, was a pop singer turned vehement opponent of gay rights, was at the height of her campaign against LGBTQ+ equality. Her “Save Our Children” coalition sought to repeal anti-discrimination ordinances, framing queer people as threats to societal morals, and gay lifestyles as “an abomination.”
Higgins and his friend Bruce Brockway, fellow activists in the fight for gay liberation, saw an opportunity to counter Bryant’s vitriol.
The fateful day unfolded during a pre-concert press conference where
Bryant detailed plans for “Anita Bryant Centers,” institutions aimed at “rehabilitating” homosexuals. As Bryant spoke, Higgins seized the moment, standing up and pushing the pie into her face with the declaration, “Save our rights!”
Bryant’s shock quickly turned to tears, as she claimed the act epitomized the “intolerance” of her opponents, though she quipped, “At least it’s a fruit pie,” making a pun on the derogatory slur of “fruit” for a gay man and a reference to her work as a spokesperson for fruit companies. As the cameras rolled and pie filling clung to her cheeks, she began to pray on-air. “We’re praying for him to be delivered from his deviant lifestyle, Father” — then broke down into tears.
Higgins and his companions exited the studio, answering questions from a media captivated by the dramatic protest. In a retaliatory gesture, Bryant’s husband, Bob Green, took an unused pie from the group and slammed it into Higgins’ face. Higgins faced no criminal charges, but
the incident became a cultural flashpoint. While Bryant sought to cast herself as a victim, Higgins’ action resonated with LGBTQ+ communities as a bold, symbolic stand against oppression. The pieing underscored the frustration and urgency felt by activists confronting Bryant’s damaging rhetoric, framing the fight for equality in sharp relief. Higgins’ legacy, however, extended far beyond that iconic moment. From his early days coining “gay pride” in Minnesota to co-founding the Positively Gay Cuban Refugee Task Force, Higgins dedicated his life to advocating for marginalized voices. In 1969 Higgins became the first person in Minnesota to be granted conscientious objector status from the Vietnam War. His audacious act against Bryant remains a vivid example of grassroots activism, blending humor, defiance, and a demand for justice. Higgins’ life, though cut short by AIDS in 1994, continues to inspire generations to fight for their rights with courage and creativity. Q
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Idaho Legislature’s first bill of 2025: Overturn same-sex marriage
The Idaho Legislature introduced its first measure of the year: a resolution calling on the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn its landmark 2015 ruling that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. The proposal, sponsored by Rep. Heather Scott (R-Blanchard), seeks to reinstate states’ authority to regulate marriage, labeling the Obergefell v. Hodges decision an “illegitimate overreach.”
Scott’s resolution urges the Supreme Court to restore the so-called “natural definition of marriage” as exclusively between one man and one woman. It further criticizes the Obergefell ruling for allegedly undermining states’ rights and violating the framers’ vision of the U.S. Constitution.
“The purpose of this resolution is just to affirm our state authority to regulate marriage,” Scott said during the initial hearing Tuesday.
The House State Affairs Committee, including both Democrats, unanimously approved introducing the resolution, moving it forward for further discussion and a public hearing at a future date. If passed by the legislature, the nonbinding resolution would be sent to the Supreme Court as a formal request but would not carry legal weight.
The 2015 Obergefell decision legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, including in states like Utah and Idaho, where such unions were previously banned. Idaho voters had approved a constitutional amendment in 2006 defining marriage as exclusively between a man and a woman. However, the amendment was struck down in 2014 by a federal judge, a decision later upheld by the
Supreme Court’s ruling.
Public opinion in Idaho has since shifted. A 2022 poll by the Idaho Statesman and SurveyUSA found that nearly half of respondents supported legal same-sex marriage, while 37 percent opposed it.
Still, some Idaho lawmakers, including Rep. Bruce Skaug (R-Nampa), argue the resolution isn’t solely about same-sex marriage but also about pushing back against perceived judicial overreach. “I see this as not an issue on same-sex marriage, but on judicial activism and states’ rights,” Skaug said.
MIXED REACTIONS
ACROSS PARTY LINES
Democratic leaders have sharply criticized the resolution, calling it a distraction from more pressing issues.
House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel and Senate Minority Leader Melissa Wintrow, both Democrats from Boise, described the effort as a “sad distraction” meant to stir division.
“This is yet another example of the extreme wing of the Republican Party ginning up divisive social issues in order to create problems where none exist,” the lawmakers said in a joint statement. “Big government has no business telling consenting adults who they should love.”
Despite shifting public sentiment, Idaho’s Republican delegation in Congress has remained opposed to same-sex marriage protections. Both of Idaho’s senators, Jim Risch and Mike Crapo, voted against the 2022 Respect for Marriage Act, which requires states to recognize samesex marriages performed elsewhere. Republican Rep. Russ Fulcher also opposed
the legislation, while Rep. Mike Simpson supported it.
NEXT STEPS
The resolution will return to the House State Affairs Committee for a full hearing before it can proceed to the House floor for debate. If passed by both chambers, it would symbolize Idaho’s
stance on the matter but would not alter existing laws or Supreme Court precedents.
While the resolution faces criticism for its divisive rhetoric, proponents argue it reaffirms Idaho’s sovereignty in defining marriage laws. Whether it gains broader support remains to be seen. Q
Idaho Democrat introduces bill to add LGBTQ+ protections
Idaho Senate Minority Leader
Melissa Wintrow (D-Boise) introduced a personal bill aimed at expanding legal protections for LGBTQ+ Idahoans in the workplace and housing.
Senate Bill 1004 seeks to amend the Idaho Human Rights Act by adding “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” to its list of protected categories. However, because Wintrow introduced the bill as a personal measure rather than through a legislative committee, it has no pathway forward.
“For the past 10 years, we have tried to introduce this bill in committee, and every year, the Republican leadership refuses to have a hearing,” Wintrow said in a statement. “We come back every year because of our love and respect for our LGBTQ+ constituents and all LGBTQ+ Idahoans.”
For two decades, Republican lawmakers—who hold a 90-15 supermajority in the Idaho Legislature—have blocked efforts to amend the Idaho Human Rights Act.
As in Utah, Pornhub blocks Florida over age-verification law
Once again, a conservative state has passed a restrictive online porn access law, and once again, Pornhub has responded by cutting off access entirely. This time, it’s Florida facing the digital blackout — much like Utah did in 2023 when a nearly identical law went into effect.
Florida’s new law, which went into effect on Jan. 1, requires adult websites to verify users’ ages with government-issued IDs like driver’s licenses. Gov. Ron DeSantis framed the legislation as a measure to protect children from online pornography, employing his usual brand of fear-mongering rhetoric.
“You can have a kid in the house safe, seemingly, and then you have predators that can get right in there into your own home,” DeSantis claimed during the bill’s signing.
But critics, including major adult content platforms, argue that these laws go far beyond child protection. Instead, they place unconstitutional burdens on free speech while also creating massive privacy risks. Rather than comply, Pornhub’s parent company, Aylo, announced it was blocking access to the site for all Florida residents — just as it did in Utah when the Beehive State implemented its own age-verification mandate.
A familiar fight in Utah
Utah’s law, signed by Gov. Spencer Cox, mirrors Florida’s restrictions, requiring adult content providers to collect and store sensitive personal data to verify users’ ages. Pornhub’s response was swift and decisive: it pulled the plug on Utah entirely. Other adult platforms followed suit, effectively shutting down access to mainstream porn
sites for the entire state. Despite lawmakers’ claims that such laws would reduce minors’ access to explicit content, the actual impact has been very different. Just as in Utah, Floridians quickly found ways around the ban. VPN usage surged over 1,000% in the Sunshine State immediately after the law took effect, according to Yahoo News. Utahns, too, saw a massive
to take effect, bumping the case up to the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court appeared divided during testimony. During arguments, several justices, including Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Clarence Thomas, suggested that technological advances might warrant reconsidering the standard. They noted that access to pornography has
dramatically increased since Ashcroft, making age-verification laws more necessary.
spike in VPN downloads in the last 18 months, demonstrating that these laws do little to stop porn consumption but do drive users toward riskier, unregulated platforms.
For many, these laws raise serious privacy and safety concerns. Requiring users to submit government-issued IDs to access adult content creates a chilling effect, particularly for those in conservative states where being outed as a porn user — even by digital data collection — could have real-world consequences.
Conversely, Justices Ketanji Brown Jackson and Sonia Sotomayor stressed that precedent mandates strict scrutiny. Jackson pointed out that Ginsberg v. New York (1968), which the 5th Circuit relied on, applied only to minors’ rights, not a broad restriction affecting adults.
SUPREME COURT
PornHub and other adult sites created the Free Speech Coalition, which is suing the state of Texas for its passage of a similar law. In January, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in FSC v. Paxton, concerning Texas’ version of the law. After a lower court blocked the law as unconstitutional, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals allowed it
Justice Amy Coney Barrett, referencing personal experience, questioned the effectiveness of filtering software, a proposed alternative to the Texas law. Justice Samuel Alito echoed this, citing widespread evidence that filters are ineffective.
Even if the Court finds the 5th Circuit used the wrong standard, it may send the case back rather than striking down the law immediately, allowing enforcement to continue. A ruling is expected by late June or early July. Q
STATES PORNHUB IS BLOCKING AS OF 1/1/2025
HRC launches guide to help parents and advocates defend LGBTQ+ students in schools
As attacks on LGBTQ+ students increased across the country, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation stepped up efforts to equip parents, educators, and community members with the tools to fight back. Today, HRCF’s Welcoming Schools Program, in partner-
ship with the School Board Integrity Project, released a new advocacy guide aimed at helping individuals engage with local school boards to push for inclusive policies. Titled “School Boards Matter: A Guide to Effectively Advocating at the School Board Level,” the resource walks readers through the structure and power of school boards while providing practical advice on how to push for policies that ensure all students can learn in a safe and welcoming environment. The guide includes worksheets for identifying school board members and templates for providing
testimony at board meetings.
“The effects of a school system that does not support our LGBTQ+ youth are dangerous — full stop,” said Cheryl Greene, Senior Director of Welcoming Schools. “With this new guide, we hope parents and loved ones feel empowered to stand up for LGBTQ+ youth in their lives.”
HRC says the need for such advocacy is urgent. A survey by The Trevor Project found that 43 percent of LGBTQ+ youth aged 13–17 reported attending a school with at least one anti-LGBTQ+ policy. Additionally, those in schools with such policies faced higher rates of bullying — 62 percent reported being physically attacked for their perceived identity, compared to 38 percent in schools without anti-LGBTQ+ policies.
School boards play a critical role in shaping educational policies, making them a key battleground for LGBTQ+ rights in schools. Krystin Schuette, founder and director of the School Board Integrity Project, emphasized the stakes: “School boards are not just mechanisms of governance—they are the last line of defense for democracy and the first line of protection for students.”
As state and national leaders continue efforts to roll back LGBTQ+ protections, local advocacy has never been more important. The full guide is now available online, and more information about the HRC Foundation’s Welcoming Schools Program can be found at www. welcomingschools.org. Q
views
quotes
“Can some kind woman in Congress teach Nancy Mace how to close and lock a bathroom stall door when she pees? Sincerely, Americans who would like the House to focus on issues that actually matter.”
—Janice Hough
“Sarah McBride is a man and should use the men’s restroom or a single occupancy restroom. We need a bill like this in #utah. I know of at least one #trans woman (ie, man with mental health problems) who uses the women’s restroom at the Capitol.”
—Goud Maragani
“You know good and well transgender folks aren’t going around raping women. It’s bullshit made up issue and you fucking know it”
—ryanosaurus77
“I’d rather share a bathroom with a trans woman than any space public or private with Gaetz. I’m well over 18 so not his target demographic, but still don’t want to be anywhere near him.”
—CountessGPS
IfSay goodbye to your PrEP, and…
BY MARK SEGAL
that headline shocked you, it should have. The executive orders that Trump has been signing may very well affect your health. Oh, you thought Trump was only attacking the “T” in our community? Nope. He’s targeting the “L,” the “G,” and the “B” as well. Let me give you some critical facts that explain why you should be alarmed — very alarmed.
POINT ONE: THERE ARE HEALTH DISPARITIES IN THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY. Some diseases disproportionately affect certain populations — sickle cell anemia primarily impacts Black individuals, and Tay-Sachs is more prevalent among Jewish communities. Similarly, there are health concerns that disproportionately affect LGBTQ+ people. Are you surprised? While you may be aware of HIV and AIDS as health issues in our community, there are other needs that are less discussed. For instance, certain cancers occur more frequently in LGBTQ+ individuals than in heterosexual populations.
Now, here’s the kicker: one of Trump’s executive orders will halt studies investigating why this happens. In some cases, it will also hinder treatments and restrict access to information that could be vital to you if you’re affected. This is more than a health issue — it’s an attack on our ability to protect ourselves.
POINT TWO: LET’S TALK ABOUT PREP. The United States is involved in a program that helps provide PrEP to approximately 26 million individuals in Africa. Our government has been underwriting the costs to pharmaceutical companies. Well, thanks to Trump, that program just ended. Do you think pharmaceutical companies will absorb the loss? Highly unlikely.
Here’s what that means for us: if you’re on a government-assisted program to access PrEP, especially through an LGBTQ+ clinic, you could lose access.
For those with insurance, brace yourself for significantly higher co-pays. The pharmaceutical industry isn’t known for prioritizing affordability over profits.
POINT THREE: FUNDING FOR LGBTQ+ HEALTH CLINICS IS AT RISK. States often rely on federal block grant funds to support these clinics. Without those funds, many clinics — especially those providing HIV/AIDS services — will be forced to shut down or reduce services. The ripple effects could be devastating.
POINT FOUR: CONVERSION THERAPY BANS AND BOOK BANS. Another executive order has halted government efforts to fight conversion therapy, and yet another has stopped federal agencies from opposing book bans. These policies actively harm our community by erasing protections and silencing vital education.
POINT FIVE: THE END OF FEDERAL DEI PROGRAMS. Think diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives don’t affect you? Many of these programs fund schools and nonprofits, often training future leaders in advocacy and health care. Under Trump’s orders, funding for programs deemed “politically disagreeable” can be cut, forcing schools to drop related courses and initiatives. The long-term impact on our community could be severe.
POINT SIX: INTERNATIONAL CONSEQUENCES. Remember Uganda’s “kill the gays” law? The Biden administration successfully pressured Uganda to back down by threatening to withhold foreign aid. Now that Trump has removed that leverage, what do you think will happen next?
To my fellow journalists: I understand that it’s sensational to focus on what Trump is doing to the transgender community, but it’s irresponsible not to inform the entire LGBTQ+ community about these broader attacks. We must prepare ourselves and our readers for what lies ahead. Q
WARNING SIGNS OF SUICIDE HELPFUL SIDE-BAR
• Talking about wanting to die
• Looking for a way to kill oneself
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
• Acting anxious, agitated or recklessly
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing or feeling isolated
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
• Displaying extreme mood swings
The more of these signs a person shows, the greater the risk. Warning signs are associated with suicide but may not be what causes a suicide.
WHAT TO DO
If someone you know exhibits warning signs of suicide:
• Do not leave the person alone
• Remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt
• Call the U.S National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 9-8-8 or 800-273-8255
• Take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional
THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE 9-8-8
A free, 24/7 service that can provide suicidal persons or those around them with support, information and local resources.
Onguest editorial
Trump executive orders and their impact on the LGBTQ+ community
BY BRANDON WOLF
his first day in office as the 47th president of the United States, President Trump signed a slew of executive orders that impact the LGBTQ+ community, as well as many others. It is important to note that executive actions do NOT have the authority to override the United States Constitution, federal statutes, or established legal precedent. Many of these directives do just that or are regarding matters over which the president does not have control. Given that, many of these orders will be difficult, if not impossible, to implement, and efforts to do so will be challenged through litigation. Currently, much is unknown about whether or how the administration or other actors will comply with these directives, and in most instances rules will need to be promulgated or significant administrative guidance will need to be issued in order for implementation to occur. These are processes that take time and require detailed additional plans to be developed.
Newly Issued Executive Orders
A number of executive actions yesterday will impact the LGBTQ+ community. However, the below addresses only those executive orders that directly name or are targeted at LGBTQ+ people specifically:
THE ANTI-TRANSGENDER EXECUTIVE ORDER (titled “Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government”) attempts to end legal recognition of transgender and nonbinary people under federal law and greenlight discrimination against the full LGBTQ+ community in the workplace, education, housing, healthcare, and more. This EO is built on the lies of those like the authors of Project 2025, referring to transgender people as an “ideology,” rather than reality — and the consensus of the medical community, including every major medical association, such as the American
Medical Association, American Psychological Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and others. Enforcing this definition of sex defies decades of federal statute and legal precedent, violating the U.S. Constitution. It targets transgender people and includes significant negative impacts on LGBQ people as well. This EO would make it the policy of the administration to recognize two sexes, male and female (as defined below), and refuse to accept that people can transition from one sex to another or recognize nonbinary people.
DEFINITION OF SEX : The EO directs federal agencies that, for purposes of sex nondiscrimination laws, “‘Sex’ shall refer to an individual’s immutable biological classification as either male or female. ‘Sex’ is not a synonym for and does not include the concept of ‘gender identity.’” HHS is directed to provide guidance expanding on these definitions in the next 30 days.
DIRECTION TO DEFY BOSTOCK
:
The EO directs the Attorney General to immediately issue guidance to agencies to “correct the misapplication of the Supreme Court’s decision in Bostock v. Clayton County” (2020) to sex-based distinctions in agency activities. Bostock held that discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity constitutes illegal sex discrimination. If implemented, this directive could allow federal agencies to refuse to acknowledge discrimination against the full LGBTQ+ community in the workplace, education, housing, health care, and more.
REFUSAL TO RESPECT TRANSITION — INCLUDING IN USE OF PRONOUNS AND BATHROOMS FOR TITLE VII
REGULATED EMPLOYERS
. The order directs the Attorney General to issue guidance allowing people to refuse to use a transgender or nonbinary person’s correct pronouns, and to claim a right to use single-sex bathrooms and other spac-
es based on sex assigned at birth at any workplace covered by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and federally funded spaces. If implemented by the Attorney General, this could open a transgender or nonbinary person up to misgendering, harassment, and humiliation at work — simply for being themselves.
Note: the EEOC is the primary agency in charge of enforcing Title VII, and it is a quasi-independent agency that is not legally required to take direction from the President via an executive order. Legal precedent surrounding the use of bathrooms at work and respectful use of pronouns already exist, and would be in conflict with implementation of this directive.
BATHROOM BANS ON FEDERAL PROPERTY: Directs agencies to limit access to restrooms and other single-sex facilities based on the adopted definition of sex/sex assigned at birth. This may impact federal property that is owned, leased, or controlled by federal agencies. If implemented, this could mean restricting access to restrooms for transgender and nonbinary people in federal offices, on military bases, and at national parks.
IMPLICATIONS FOR FEDERAL IDENTITY DOCUMENTS : The EO directs the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security to cease issuing federal identity documents (namely, passports, visas, and Global Entry cards) that conflict with the new definition of sex. This means that transgender and non-binary people will no longer be able to access new or renewed passports that reflect their gender identity. Regulatory safeguards protect validly issued passports from rescission. In response to a request from NOTUS, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the executive order will not be retroactive and thus will not rescind valid passports.
OTHER IMPLICATIONS FOR SEX DISCRIMINATION EMPLOYMENT
LAW (including Federal & Title VII Employers). This directive would be in direct conflict with much of the opinion in Bostock v. Clayton County, binding precedent from the United States Supreme Court interpreting Title VII’s prohibition of discrimination on the basis of sex in the workplace. That precedent regulates both the federal government’s employment practices as well as private employers covered by Title VII.
Potentially broad implications for discrimination on the basis of sex in Title VII, including protections against sex stereotyping and sexual harassment. Decades of case law, in the federal courts including the United States Supreme Court, have interpreted discrimination on the basis of sex to include any number of important protections that many Americans now take for granted - including that a non-transgender woman in the workplace who is perceived to be violating gender norms in terms of her dress, decision to work outside the home, affect or other presentation is protected from discrimination under Title VII. These long standing protections are known as “sex stereotyping” and are a critical component of enforcing Title VII. Protections from sexual harassment also spring from Title VII’s prohibitions from discrimination on the basis of sex. Interpretation and enforcement of these other critical facets of Title VII could also be impacted by the adoption of this definition.
ATTEMPTS TO ADD BATHROOM EXEMPTION INTO TITLE VII : Directs the Attorney General, Secretary of Labor, and the EEOC (an independent agency that does not answer directly to the President) to enforce Title VII so as to allow/enforce access to restrooms only consistent with this policy. If they were to do so, these agencies would penalize any private employers subject to Title VII for allowing transgender people to access restrooms consistent with their gender identity in the workplace. They would also enforce the same rules in the federal workforce.
HALT FEDERAL FUNDING, INCLUDING GRANTS AND CONTRACTS, PROMOTING “GENDER IDEOLOGY”
OR COLLECTING DATA ON GENDER IDENTITY: Agencies can no longer fund, via contracts or grants, any content that is deemed to be promoting “gender ideology”. Additionally, the EO directs agencies to rescind various guidance, toolkits, and memoranda from DOJ, Ed, the AG and the EEOC related to LGBTQ+ issues.
REVERSE “EQUAL ACCESS RULE” PROTECTIONS FOR LGBTQ+ PEOPLE IN HOUSING AND FOR TRANSGENDER WOMEN
IN SHELTERS
: Directs HUD to repeal the Equal Access Rule (which protects LGBTQ+ people from discrimination in housing and has been in place since before the first Trump Administration), and to promulgate a rule that prevents transgender women from being able to access domestic violence shelters. This would conflict with not only Bostock but also other federal laws, and could create requirements for determining a person’s sex for admission into emergency shelters that would directly impact individuals who do not conform with sex stereotypes — even if they are not transgender.
INCARCERATION : Directs agencies to issue regulations to force transgender women to be housed with men in prisons or detention centers, and directs Bureau of Prisons to cease providing gender-affirming care of any kind. Actions that place transgender women into unsafe incarceration placements are in conflict with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA).
IMPLEMENTATION REPORTING WITHIN 120 DAYS : Within 120 days each agency shall submit an update on implementation to OMB that includes changes to documents, changes in relationship to federally funded entities (including grantees and contractors). Additionally directs the drafting of a bill to codify this definition of sex into law.
ENDING DEI IN THE FEDERAL WORKPLACE
. This directive instructs the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), with assistance from the Attorney General and the Office of Personnel Management, to end DEI/DEIA “mandates, policies, programs, preferences,
and activities” throughout the federal government, including instructing OMB to terminate all equity-related grants and contracts. Incredibly, “DEI” is not defined, and confusion and differing understandings of what DEI entails are likely to extend the regulatory process and may, in the meantime, have a chilling effect on any efforts that could potentially be considered “DEI.” Each agency is directed to assess the costs of DEI under the last administration, and inform the President of the prevalence and economic costs of DEI in the federal government. The preamble to the order includes a mention of the Project 2025 trope “gender ideology.”
Rescission of Existing EOs
Of the dozens of executive orders that were rescinded collectively yesterday, several touched specifically on LGBTQ+ Issues. Among the most important of these was the repeal of President Biden’s directive to agencies to implement the Supreme Court ruling in Bostock v. Clayton County, which found that Title VII’s prohibition of discrimination on the basis of sex includes prohibitions of discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. While this clearly signals that the Trump administration is not planning to fully enforce Title VII’s protections from employment discrimination on behalf of LGBTQ+ people, Bostock v. Clayton County remains binding Supreme Court precedent that the administration is not free to ignore.
ADVANCING RACIAL EQUITY
AND SUPPORT FOR UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES THROUGH THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT. Directed agencies to advance equity for underserved populations, including LGBTQ+ people.
PREVENTING AND
COMBATING DISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF GENDER IDENTITY OR SEXUAL ORIENTATION. Directed agencies to update rules, policies, and guidance to implement the Supreme Court’s decision in Bostock v. Clayton County. Note that Bostock v. Clayton County is binding Supreme Court precedent that governs the implementation and enforcement of Title VII. The analysis
adopted by the Court logically applies to other federal sex nondiscrimination statutes including Title IX and the Fair Housing Act. Neither an executive order nor its rescission impacts the validity of a binding decision by the United States Supreme Court.
ENABLING ALL QUALIFIED AMERICANS TO SERVE THEIR COUNTRY IN UNIFORM. This Biden executive order rescinded President Trump’s previous order that had allowed restrictions on transgender people serving in the military. Its recession opens the door to further restrictions being promulgated.
Executive Order 14020 of March 8, 2021 (Establishment of the White House Gender Policy Council). Created White House council to advance gender equity, including equity for LGBTQ+ people.
GUARANTEEING AN EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT FREE FROM DISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF SEX, INCLUDING SEXUAL ORIENTATION OR GENDER IDENTITY. Ensured that regulations implementing Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 reverse Trump era changes that made it harder for survivors of sexual violence to be supported at schools, and adding sexual orientation and gender identity as protected characteristics.
ADVANCING EQUALITY FOR LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, TRANSGENDER, QUEER, AND INTERSEX INDIVIDUALS. Addressed access to medically necessary care for LGBTQI+ youth, discrimination and barriers faced by LGBTQI+ children, parents, caretakers and families in the child welfare system; supports for LGBTQI+ children in educational institutions; supports for LGBTQ+ elders; and responsible data collection.
FURTHER ADVANCING RACIAL EQUITY AND SUPPORT FOR UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES THROUGH THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT. Called for further action to advance equity for underserved populations, defined as inclusive of LGBTQ+ people. Q
Brandon Wolf is a nationally-recognized civil rights and gun safety advocate, and a seasoned communications expert. He currently serves as National Press Secretary for the Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization. He is a survivor of the Orlando Pulse massacre.
OnceMark Zuckerberg
BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI
upon
a time, surf mime and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg visited Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago and then it was OK to use slurs against LGBTQ+ people on Facebook and Instagram again. Hooray for freedom!Zuckerberg wasted no time making major changes to Meta’s platforms in what many see as a way to kiss Trump’s ass. After all, Trump once announced that Zuckerberg should go to prison for moderating election content on Facebook.
As Vanity Fair reports, “In addition to axing his company’s fact-checking program, rolling back content moderation, and elevating Republican executives and board members…Meta will also end its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, launched to address the dearth of women, Black, and Hispanic workers in the tech industry.”
Sadly, Meta is not alone in cutting DEI initiatives. That’s happening all across corporate America since DEI doesn’t fit into the white nationalist Christo-fascist agenda of the incoming administration.
Part of the thinking behind ditching DEI is to make tech manly again, Zuckerberg told podcaster Joe Rogan.
“I think it’s one thing to say we want to be welcoming and make a good environment for everyone, and I think it’s another to basically say that masculinity is bad,” Zuckerberg said. “I think having a culture that celebrates aggression a bit more has its own merits that are really positive.”
Ah, yes. The infinite benefits of masculine aggression. Especially for women and LGBTQ+ people.
Look, no one is saying masculinity is inherently bad. But there are plenty of people dehumanizing transgender people and saying that women can’t be trusted to make reproductive choices — ideas that are deeply rooted in toxic masculinity and the strict gender roles and acts of dominance required for it to flourish. Bottom line is that male aggression gets people killed. As the saying goes,
men would rather kill each other, kill their wives and girlfriends, and kill unarmed Black people on the subway instead of going to therapy.
Look, Facebook has long been a dumpster fire. Young people don’t really use it anymore. It is the domain of the olds. The place where your aunt goes to spout nonsense about vaccines and your cousin posts AI-generated images of a shirtless Trump with well-oiled six-pack abs riding on the back of a giant bald eagle that, if you look closely, has what looks like one human foot and one webbed duck foot.
Instagram, on the other hand, still has some sheen on it that attracts the youths. And Threads, well, Threads presumably is used by someone.
If you thought Meta’s platforms were already megaphones for harmful bullshit, just you wait. Zuckerberg has, at warp speed, made its platforms into super highways for right-wing hate and misinformation.
According to The New York Times, “Meta loosened rules so people could post statements saying they hated people of certain races, religions or sexual orientations, including permitting ‘allegations of mental illness or abnormality when based on gender or sexual orientation.’ The company cited political discourse about transgender rights for the change. It also removed a rule that forbade users to say people of certain races were responsible for spreading the coronavirus.”
Gross.
Zuckerberg claims that he didn’t make all of these changes to appease Trump. Yeah, sure.
“The good thing about [making these changes] after the election is you get to take this cultural pulse,” he told Rogan. “We got to this point where there were these things that you couldn’t say that were just mainstream discourse.”
Yes, exactly. And that’s not good.
The post-fact America that we live in is not a healthy place. The culture has dis-
missed expertise as “elitism” and so now scientific findings have to compete with a guy on the toilet doing “his own research” and posting conspiracy theories online.
You don’t have to look far to see that a world where no one trusts each other and there is no shared reality is one where tragedy thrives. COVID-19 was a chance for us to come together for the sake of the greater good. A tone that should have been set by this country’s leaders.
Instead, we had a president who said that COVID-19 would go away “like a miracle,” tweeted “Liberate Michigan” after mitigation measures were put in place to save lives, and suggested that ingesting disinfectant might cure the virus.
But hey, I’m sure if bird flu becomes a big thing, Trump and his MAGA followers will rise to the occasion. Thank god they have Facebook to spread the word.
D’Anne Witkowski is a writer living in Michigan with her wife and son. She has been writing about LGBTQ+ politics for nearly two decades. Follow her on Twitter @MamaDWitkowski
guest editorial
Flag bans perpetuate culture wars
BY TROY WILLIAMS AND MARINA LOWE, EQUALITY UTAH
In May of 2023, Skyridge High School students staged a peaceful walkout protesting Alpine School District’s new classroom pride flag restrictions. A handful of counter-protesters emerged, wielding American and MAGA flags and responding with anti-LGBTQ epithets. Unfortunately, This clash of symbols reflects the broader culture wars in schools nationwide.
For context, the rainbow flag emerged prominently in Utah schools as a symbol of hope during a public health crisis. In 2017, the CDC reported that Utah’s teen suicide rate spiked 141 percent, well above the national average. Teachers knew from national data that LGBTQ youth were particularly vulnerable. We also know from vast data the greatest protective factor against teen suicide is fostering a deep sense of connection and family acceptance. Compassionate teachers responded to the crisis by displaying pride flags in classrooms, sending a crucial message to a struggling student: You belong. These educators understood that small gestures of inclusion could profoundly impact students’ lives.
We love Utah teachers and deeply appreciate their efforts to create welcoming classrooms. We also recognize that sometimes, even with the best of intentions, youth can actually be overprotected in ways that stymie psychological and emotional growth. As social psychologist Jonathan Haidt notes, an excessive focus on “safe spaces” might actually hamper students’ ability to confront life challenges. He reminds us of the axiom, “We must prepare the child for the road, not the road for the child.”
LGBTQ+ students should feel safe everywhere in schools, not just in rooms with rainbow flags. Every classroom, hallway, and locker room should be safe for all students to learn, grow, and express themselves.
Now, as Utah’s Legislature prepares to debate HB77 — legislation that would restrict the display of pride flags, among others — lawmakers may remember the old saying, “That which you resist, persists.” Often, such restrictions backfire, inspiring bolder, defiant displays of youth identity.
Instead of perpetuating culture wars through flag bans, there is another way. Though we have recently clashed on issues around transgender youth, Utah lawmakers have demonstrated remarkable leadership around LGBTQ youth on several occasions. In 2017, they repealed a “Don’t Say Gay” school curriculum law, which prohibited discussion of LGBTQ families. In 2023, they voted unanimously to protect minors from conversion therapy. And just last year, they voted to increase funding for LGBTQ youth mental health programs — achievements unmatched in other conservative states.
At Equality Utah, we remain committed to working with lawmakers to build on this progress. We seek common sense solutions that enable teachers to be authentic mentors who inspire critical thinking and encourage resilience. They absolutely should not fear state retaliation or parent-initiated litigation for encouraging a culture of inclusion in the classroom. The well-being of our students and educators is best assured by a future where our schools are no longer the battlefield upon which political wars are waged. Laws that invite frequent litigation do not lead to a better future.
Utah always crafts better policy when we bring people to the table and talk. Our side should recognize that while flags can be meaningful, the true measure of a welcoming classroom isn’t found in the symbols displayed but in the daily policies and practices that ensure all students can receive an education free from discrimination.
Lawmakers should also remember that public trust is built when prioritizing substantive policy over reactionary legislation. It’s possible that students might temper their enthusiasm about pride flags if they didn’t feel constantly besieged by legislation perceived to restrict their rights and liberty.
LGBTQ+ Americans ultimately pledge our allegiance to the Stars and Stripes. Even though historically, we have not always enjoyed equal protection under state and federal law, we recognize that under the American flag, we have the unprecedented freedom to challenge injustice, fight for our civil liberties, and achieve landmark victories, like the freedom to marry.
We encourage young advocates, as you prepare to exercise your right to march, protest, and rally, to always bring the American flag with you. It’s our flag, too. Hoist it high.
During our recent visit to Skyridge High School, their entrance boldly proclaimed “You Belong” — a message transcending any flag debate. Legislators can make their greatest impact by reinforcing this truth through both word and action: Every young Utahn, including LGBTQ youth, unequivocally belongs in our schools, our state and our country. Again, we are all Utahns and we are all Americans. Q
Troy Williams is the executive director of Equality Utah. Marina Lowe is the policy director of Equality Utah. This story first appeared in The Salt Lake Tribune.
Martians in tricorn hats
BY CHRISTOPHER KATIS
Fifty years ago, the country was consumed with preparing for America’s upcoming Bicentennial in 1976. Advertisements were flooded with guys dressed as Ben Franklin or Minutemen. Red, white, and blue everything was everywhere.
In class, our days were spent learning about the founders and what brave heroes they were, conveniently — you’ll excuse the turn of phrase — whitewashing or ignoring the fact that many of them owned enslaved people. At school programs, our parents beamed proudly as we belted out patriotic songs while wearing tricorn hats made from black construction paper.
I swallowed it all: hook, line, and sinker. I wore that paper hat everywhere, until it finally ripped beyond repair. My hope was that others would join me and start sporting theirs — even when we weren’t performing. It would be a spirited effort — nay! a revolution! — to bring the hats back into fashion.
But I didn’t stop there. One day, my dad gave me a large goose feather he found on the golf course. I promptly inserted an ink tube from a Bic pen into the calamus, the hollow part of the feather, so I could write with a quill. And if that wasn’t odd enough, at a family reunion, I even recited (from heart) the preamble of the Declaration of Independence to my bemused adult relatives, most of whom were first-generation Americans. We hold these truths to be self-evident…
Back then, everything was exciting, and the possibilities were endless. If you had asked me what I thought life would be like in 2025, I’d have enthusiastically predicted that we’d have amazing technologies to make our lives easier, flying cars, and colonies on Mars. Well, one out of three isn’t bad. I was right about technology.
But what will it be like in another 50 years? Assuming the Republic is still standing, Americans will be
busying themselves preparing for a 300th birthday celebration for the nation. Kelly and I will be long gone. Even our boys will probably be grandfathers. But I can’t help wondering what kind of country they’ll live in.
Maybe it’s that optimism instilled in me during the Bicentennial, but I think the Tricentennial will celebrate a country in which everyone has equal rights. No one will care if a dude wants to marry another dude. No one will consider a two-mom family “untraditional.” And nobody will give a second thought to what bathroom you use.
Indeed, I see an America in which same-gender parents are pretty commonplace. Obnoxious aunts will ask newly married gay couples when they plan to have kids. Uncles lacking boundaries will quiz their lesbian nieces about turkey basters.
It’ll be a place where queer kids are safe. One in which no one is forced from their home by their parents or told they need to “change” by their church leaders.
This America, older and hopefully wiser, is one where teachers and coaches use whatever pronouns are requested. It will be a country that cherishes and celebrates all its kids.
Maybe it’s the nation that the founders hoped for. Yeah, obviously, it won’t be exactly as they had envisioned, but it will reflect the reality of 2075 and the spirit of what those men were hoping to accomplish.
Fifty years down the road, when kids in schools around the country are practicing patriotic songs and growing increasingly excited about the Tricentennial, maybe some enthusiastic child will recite (by heart) the preamble from the Declaration. Who knows, maybe he’ll change one single word, that all people are created equal…
Oh, I really do hope there are colonies on Mars. And I sure as hell hope those colonists wear tricorn hats! Q
12896 S Pony Express Rd Suite 200 in Draper (just north of IKEA) 801.333.3777 www.ilovelotus.com
Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS ED says farewell
BY TIM MURPHY
Anyone familiar with the HIV and AIDS services community — or, for that matter, with professional theater — is also likely familiar with Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS (BC/EFA).
That’s the New York City–based nonprofit whose lavish, beloved annual events, including the strip-a-thon “Broadway Bares” and the Easter Bonnet Competition, have, since its 1992 inception, raised more than $300 million for hundreds of HIV and AIDS and adjacent service organizations throughout the United States.
Tom Viola has led BC/EFA since 1996. Viola, 70, came to New York City as an aspiring actor in the 1970s and later found himself swept up in efforts to provide aid to theater community folks hit by the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s.
When he began his tenure, BC/EFA was a small, scrappy outfit raising thousands of dollars here and there through a variety of “Hey kids, let’s put on a show!” one-off events. Viola grew it into a sleek machine that employs dozens of people and raises revenues that, via grant processes, have funded food delivery, prevention, care and advocacy services for agencies large and small across the country serving people living with HIV and other illnesses.
You’ve been leading BC/EFA for 28 years. How would you break down that long tenure into chapters? A big change was in 1996, when we expanded support at the Actors’ Fund to the Phyllis Newman Women’s Health Initiative [which was run by Broadway actress Phyllis Newman, a cancer survivor who died in 2019]. We did that because of all the women in the theater community who’d helped BC/EFA take root the past decade, helping to care for primarily gay men.
So we felt it was imperative to support a program to help women. And that began the expansion of our mission and outreach beyond AIDS to what is now called the Entertainment Community Fund, which we’ve provided with $7 million to help with senior services, artists health insurance, addiction recovery services. That expansion was pivotal because it allowed us to keep the entire community engaged in our fundraising once the advent of protease inhibitors gave many people the impression that the AIDS epidemic was over.
Viola is retiring from BC/ EFA on Dec. 31 and turning over leadership to Danny Whitman, the group’s longtime development director. He recently spoke about the wild ride he’s been on the past three-plus decades, what BC/EFA’s work has meant to its beneficiaries — and to him — and what comes next.
Also, our National Grants Program just grew and grew. We’ve awarded more than 450 organizations nationwide a total of $160 million and a total of $150 million to the Entertainment Community Fund. All the organizations we give grants to have some HIV and AIDS component in their mission even if that isn’t the sole focus.
What are your priorities before leaving? I want my leaving to be about expressing gratitude in everything I do, all the opportunities I have to talk to people. I want people to understand how grateful I am.
REBIRTH IN ACTION:
How internationally renowned opera futurist YUVAL SHARON is transforming the art form
And yes, some of his inspiration comes from
Beyoncé
BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI
If,as
Detroit Opera artistic director
Yuval Sharon writes, “rebirth is opera’s true power,” then he embodies that potential, continually reshaping the art form to be more inclusive, innovative, and dynamic. At the helm of Detroit Opera, Sharon has revitalized the traditional, in part an effort to make opera accessible and resonant for a wider audience.
My own introduction to seeing Sharon’s work came in 2020, while shelterin-place restrictions were implemented. That year, I joined my pandemic pod in a Toyota Rav4 to experience his groundbreaking Detroit Opera premiere — a drive-thru performance of “Twilight: Gods,” staged in the Detroit Opera House Parking Center, all seen through car windows on multiple levels of the structure. Who knew opera could thrive in such
an unconventional setting? Sharon did. And he’s proven it can, earning global acclaim for his innovative vision right here in the heart of downtown Detroit.
From renaming the company in his first year to radically reimagining productions, Sharon’s efforts have consistently pushed the boundaries of what opera can mean to a modern audience, garnering significant acclaim from critics and audiences alike. The Detroit Free Press commended Sharon’s direction of his reimagining of “Bliss,” stating that “director Yuval Sharon’s whimsical staging captured imaginations almost right away.” Additionally, the Los Angeles Times observed that Sharon’s production of “The Valkyries” at the Hollywood Bowl “makes history again,” emphasizing his ability to bring a “boldly progressive” vision to traditional works.
Sharon’s passion for his craft as artistic director of Detroit Opera is evident not only in the work he produces but also
in the modest charm of his office at the Detroit Opera House. The walls and bookshelves are lined with volumes on history and music, offering a glimpse into the depth of his inspiration. On a calm December day, I take in these details while seated at a table beneath a striking poster for “Twilight: Gods,” a vivid reminder of his unwavering “show must go on” mentality during a time when live performances around the globe came to a halt. In the weeks leading up to our conversation, I found myself thinking about opera more than ever before, thanks to Sharon’s ability to transform one of the more traditionally inaccessible art forms into a welcoming invitation — a concept he explores in his new book “A New Philosophy of Opera.”
“Let’s start thinking of opera as evolutionary rather than decaying,” he writes. “Let’s consider the experience of going to the opera as a way of thinking and feeling that will benefit us outside
the theater. Let’s start viewing opera as an engine for empathy and awe and decide to attend a performance with an explorer’s mindset. That means opening ourselves up to the unfamiliar.”
Sharon’s journey into opera began in adolescence, when his father, while working in Germany, took him to a production of “La Traviata.” Remarkably, for someone now celebrated for his groundbreaking opera productions, Sharon recalls “mostly oscillating between boredom and incomprehension” during the performance, as he recalls in his book. Yet these early experiences may have fueled his mission to create operas that defy such reactions. After all, it was that “restless teenager” who didn’t “understand a thing of what’s happening onstage” that, as he writes, eventually became “the chairperson of that same opera company’s board of directors.”
Today, Sharon’s productions actively work against feelings of detachment and confusion. His “Twilight: Gods,” for instance, transformed the Ring Cycle as an immersive experience set in a parking structure, bringing opera to life in an unexpected and approachable way. Similarly, his 2021 staging of “Bliss” explored repetition and abstraction in ways that captivated modern audiences, while The Industry’s “Invisible Cities” reimagined opera as a site-specific performance in a bustling L.A. train station in 2013, as the audience freely roamed through an operating train station to engage with the story. These innovative approaches invite audiences into the art form, offering them experiences that are anything but boring or incomprehensible.
For Sharon, he’s walked the line between embracing fearlessness while also honoring opera’s rich traditions. “Part of the education I’ve had so far at this job is, you need the boldness, but you also don’t want to be just a bull in the China shop that’s just destroying everything,” he says. “Twilight: Gods” could’ve sat until restrictions on in-person theatergoing were lifted, but Sharon saw those restrictions as an opportunity. He says he was keen on “doing a project right out of the gate.”
“I really wanted to make sure that my arrival would be part and parcel with
a project that acted like a statement of intention, which was despite challenges, despite things feeling like they’re falling apart — and in many ways were falling apart — and needed to clear the way for something new to emerge. That’s exactly when we need art most. Because it can really remind us of our humanity, and that seems so important.”
“Art always adapts to the times,” he adds. “And so I really wanted to make that claim.”
When the Detroit Opera House reopened to the public, Sharon saw the stage as an opportunity to be an engine for the empathy and awe that opera can uniquely evoke. In 2022, Detroit Opera presented his innovative production of Puccini’s “La Bohème,” performed in reverse order from Act IV to Act I, as well as “X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X,” composed by Anthony Davis. For the latter, Sharon championed that work due to Malcolm X’s significant importance in Detroit.
“Those felt like, again, another kind of statement of principles of what I wanted the company to be about,” Sharon explains. “On one hand, we love the classics, we love the tradition, but we have an opportunity every single time we do it to explore it from another perspective.”
Speaking about “La Bohème,” he said, “We all love this opera. We love it so much that we think it works really well backward as well as forward, and let’s try it. Let’s try it to see what we learned from it. And of course, everyone that was part of it gained such an enormous appreciation of the work itself.”
Late last year, it was announced that Sharon would continue his role at Detroit Opera for another four years while stepping away from The Industry, the experimental opera company he founded and led in Los Angeles for nearly 15 years, a move he calls “bittersweet” but practical given that he’s splitting most of his time between Detroit and New York now. He has ambitious “lifetime” projects coming up at The Met, and his partner, a theater producer who graduated from the University of Michigan, lives there. (They met through Detroit Opera.)
“I want everything to be as meaningful as possible,” he says. “I started that company and I was able to bring it along so far. So I feel great about all that. And it feels like it’s a good moment. I just did a project in June there, so it just feels like, let’s end on a high note.”
When we met just weeks after Trump was elected president, Sharon discussed drawing inspiration from an eclectic mix of sources, including political discourse, Beyoncé and Kamala Harris’ belief in shared commonalities. Tilda Swinton was on his mind, too.
During an interview with The New York Times, Swinton reflected on Trump’s re-election in a way that deeply resonated with Sharon as she discussed people’s “innate goodness.” “I do believe we were all little children, scared little animals once, including all of those people that we’re thinking about,” she told the Times. “I don’t know what happened to them to make them this mean, but we have to contact them somehow.”
For Sharon, he has found his way to connect. This year’s lineup at Detroit Opera reflects his vision of using opera to explore diverse facets of humanity. On Feb. 22, out countertenor Anthony Roth Costanzo stars in Louisa Proske’s reimagined production of “Rinaldo.” On April 5, Sharon debuts his fresh take on Mozart’s “Così fan tutte,” transforming the controversial comedy into a futuristic experiment through the lens of artificial intelligence. Then, beginning May 10, the Opera House will stage “The Central Park Five,” composed by Davis, who won a Pulitzer Prize in Music for the opera. The production tackles themes of racial injustice, resilience, and redemption.
“One of the things I really love about opera,” Sharon explains, “is that every single opera can be about a different facet of humanity. ‘The Central Park Five’ is an amazing paean to social justice, and it’s so important that we’re doing it — I can’t wait for it. ‘Così,’ obviously, doesn’t have a social justice theme but uses a classic traditional opera to explore something really, really contemporary and of the moment. And there are operas that are all about sexuality.”
“Opera, in so many ways, could be a really queer art form, because from the beginning, there have been men playing women, women playing men, and characters professing love for each other played by two people of the same gender.”
In “Rinaldo,” Costanzo takes on the titular role. He collaborated with Sharon previously on” The Comet/Poppea,” staged in June 2024 in Los Angeles. The production was directed by Sharon and featured Costanzo in a starring role.
“I am so honored to have collaborated closely with Yuval as both a singer and a producer, and I know what a reverence he has for the tradition that opera is built upon,” says Costanzo, who, in June 2024, began his new role as general director and president of Opera Philadelphia. “He realizes that in order for this tradition to flourish, we need new methods of perception, new vehicles for absorption. His resourcefulness in repurposing this tradition is singular.”
That sentiment is shared by Patty Isacson Sabee, CEO and president of Detroit Opera. “The man loves opera,” Sabee enthuses. “All the choices Yuval has made — deconstructing and reconstructing opera for the modern age — come from his deep love of opera and an insatiable curiosity about the connections between what was happening when the opera was written and how it connects with what matters to us today.”
Sharon’s artistic risk-taking is reflected beyond his productions — he was instrumental in the decision to change the name of the company from Michigan Opera Theater to Detroit Opera in early 2022. The change, he said, was influenced by his perception that the name Michigan Opera Theater was “carrying with it some older ideas of what opera was supposed to be.”
“Of course, it took some convincing, but not much,” he says. “Really, from the beginning, I wanted that name change. [It] feels so much more contemporary and so
much more important now. Our cultural institutions really reflect the communities that were built in that we are trying to respond to and communicate with, and be in dialogue with. So, really, from the beginning, I wanted that name change.”
“Yuval has made a point of embracing the Detroit community from the moment he arrived here in 2020, not only meeting with many community and cultural leaders but also by immersing himself in our city’s music traditions and featuring local artists onstage,” Sabee says.
She notes that “he is engaging the community in conversations on issues that matter deeply,” referencing both Davis’s “X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X” and “The Central Park Five.”
“Matthew Ozawa’s new production of ‘Madame Butterfly’ in 2023 spurred conversations with our Asian American community that challenged ideas about the opera’s themes of Orientalism and depictions of Japanese women and culture,” she adds. “All these are ‘made in Detroit’ moments that could not have happened anywhere else or without Yuval Sharon.”
Even the cover of “A New Philosophy of Opera” underscores Sharon’s progressive vision, featuring one of the rare trans opera singers, Lucia Lucas, from a Lyric Opera of Chicago production of “Proximity.” In it, Sharon writes, “The art we experience and the narratives we share ultimately cultivate opposing views on the past: as either open and changeable, or as closed and observable. Zooming out, we could apply the same characteristics to conservative worldviews — which idolize origins as perfect and consider change a degradation; or to progressive ones — which emphasize mutability, becoming, and the possibility of a better future by actively transforming the past. In one case, paradise is irrevocably lost; in the other, paradise is yet to come.”
Sharon is bridging history with our modern era through his work and, as Costanzo says, “blaz-
ing a trail for opera’s future.”
“His curiosity knows no bounds,” he adds, “and his steadfast commitment to craft makes him one of the most electric directors in opera.”
“His work convinces us there are infinite possibilities within opera — both those we know well and the new — to discover and to be inspired to think differently about our world,” Sabee adds.
To understand his artistic vision, ask Sharon about his love for Beyoncé, as I did. His face lit up as he explained her universal appeal: “Everyone’s invited to the party. Everybody’s there to take what they want from it.” It’s the same inclusive philosophy he brings to opera.
Sharon also references the concept of “collective effervescence,” coined by French sociologist Émile Durkheim, which he says he’s felt only a few times in his life — at his temple in Los Angeles and during Beyoncé’s Renaissance tour. “It was the sense of unity that sometimes you don’t feel when you’re home alone by yourself,” he reflects.
Sharon’s approach to opera is inspired by how Naomi André, a Detroit Opera board member and scholar, described Beyoncé’s “Homecoming” performance in a CNN article as “operatic.” Sharon adds, “I wish opera were at that level. There’s something about what she does that feels like that is what opera is meant to do: It’s always a big spectacle, but she, the human, is always at the center. No matter how many video screens and flying horses are part of the show, you’re only ever just amazed at this person who has us all in the palm of her hand.”
Through Sharon’s vision, opera reaches for that same sense of intimacy and wonder, where the grandeur serves to amplify the power of human connection. Q
Chris Azzopardi is the editorial director of Pride Source Media Group and Q Syndicate. He has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Cher, Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. His work has also appeared in The New York Times, Vanity Fair, GQ and Billboard. Reach him via X @chrisazzopardi.
Nemo’s Big Year
With a Eurovision win, Nemo isn’t just making history — they’re using their platform to challenge norms
BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI
WhenEurovision Song Contest 2024, the high-camp international singing competition, crowned Nemo as its winner earlier this year, it signified more than a musical triumph — it was a groundbreaking moment for representation. Since then, the nonbinary artist, celebrated for their theatrical performances and unapologetic authenticity, has become a powerful symbol of LGBTQ+ visibility.
Switzerland’s winning entry, “The Code,” co-written by Nemo, marked the country’s first victory since “Ne partez pas sans moi” by Celine Dion in 1988. It also made history as the first winning song by a nonbinary artist in the contest’s history. Imagine an opera-rave fusion, as Nemo’s vocals reach beyond the ceiling and tip over into rap. On the chorus, they sing, “I went to hell and back to find myself on track; I broke the code. Like ammonites, I just gave it some time; now I found paradise.” In October, the artist followed up with “Eurostar,” a high-energy club banger.
But Nemo’s impact goes beyond music; they’ve boldly and directly challenged Swiss leadership to recognize a third gender option, advocating for change not just for themselves but for countless others seeking acknowledgment and equality. As we look ahead to 2025, these critical conversations about identity and representation are sure to resonate far beyond Switzerland, sparking dialogue across the globe, including here in the U.S.
On stage and during our video interview, Nemo radiates warmth and a perky spirit — even at 9 a.m., a time they confess is “usually my wake-up time, not my interview time.” From L.A., where they recently attended a dreamy Malibu wedding and were partaking in songwriting sessions, Nemo opened up about what their Eurovision win means — not just for their career, but for so many who find inspiration in their story.
I owe you congratulations, Nemo! How cool is it that you get to represent not just the LGBTQ+ community, but specifically the nonbinary community? I feel like this is what I really fed off of. During the whole competition, I think my number-one drive was knowing how much visibility matters: getting messages from all over
the world — or all over Europe mainly, but also a few from the U.S. — during the process and how it started a conversation in [someone’s] family, or how they finally had the courage to come out or they realized something about themselves during Eurovision. Not just because of me, but because of queer representation this year in general. And it continues to be a huge honor to just get to be myself in public and know that people are watching, and young people are watching — people that need to have representation to look up to, because when I grew up, I didn’t have any nonbinary people in media or wherever to look up to and feel represented by.
It just is such a wonderful time and a special year, and not just with Eurovision. I feel like there’s all these artists that are openly queer and are making amazing music or amazing art and people really feel that, and I feel like it really matters. So knowing that I can be a little part of that has been one of the biggest honors of my life.
People like David Bowie, Annie Lennox and Mika may not be nonbinary, but obviously they all challenged gender norms in some ways. Were you drawn to artists like them, and who are some of the artists you’re proud to stand alongside now? For me growing up, it was definitely Mika. I think I felt very at home in his music, but also just in his personality in this world he’s built. I’ve always felt drawn to people like that. Also, Freddie Mercury from Queen. I used to listen to a lot of Queen and I never really knew or understood why, but I think I always felt drawn to these types of personalities in music and art.
You can’t really pin it down, but it makes sense in retrospect. And nowadays, people I really look up to right now... I mean, one of the biggest inspirations for me personally is Chappell Roan. She has such a wonderful universe, but also personality and music; she’s such a great connector in the queer music scene, but also just connecting worlds and opening up the field to so many more people. I think there are always super important people in the course of history, people that can really build bridges in a way. I feel really inspired by her a lot at the moment.
You mention both Mika and Chappell
Roan creating artistic universes. Take me back to when you were young and musical and doing that for yourself.
I think in a lot of ways I was always drawn to worlds that weren’t the world I was living in. I was always drawn to theater and opera, and I was in youth opera when I was from nine to 13 or so, and we prepared one opera a year. I love to just dive into certain worlds. As a kid, I felt very drawn to that. One of the biggest fascinations was actually “The Magic Flute” by Mozart, and I was obsessed with the “Queen of the Night” [aria]. And now you are the queen of the night. Literally. That’s the coolest part about “The Code” — a part of the “Queen of the Night” made it into “The Code.” And I feel like it’s the realest thing, because I used to annoy everyone around me singing this song the whole day. I can hit the high notes. I never thought about it that way, but I was always fascinated and drawn into alternate universes. That’s also why I ended up making music, because I think that was when I realized this is the place I can literally create whatever I want to. And I think that’s still what drives me with making music. Nowadays it’s building worlds and building universes.
I love that. I think your victory sends a powerful message, especially considering Switzerland’s rejection of a third gender option. How do you feel your win impacts this perspective on representation in your country? I think there’s been a few things that have happened. The first thing that happened was it just took this conversation to a much broader level in my country. The story was suddenly so big that people that didn’t want to talk about it couldn’t ignore it anymore. That was certainly something that it did and continues to do now that Eurovision is going to be in Switzerland again. I think when it happens, there’s going to definitely be the question of, so how much has actually changed in this year? How have things progressed? Did they progress at all?
It happened a few months before the Eurovision finale, when I was already announced as the artist to go to Eurovi-
sion. I was getting ready for an interview and I was in this makeup chair at the television [station], and then suddenly I see the Swiss president, one of the Swiss presidents coming in, and he’s getting ready for his interview, as well, and getting his makeup done. We get our makeup done in very different ways. On me, there’s a little bit of powder.
No nails? No nails. But we started talking and it was really cute. And then, he left. He asked for a picture and left. That night I was like, oh, wait, maybe I should talk to him about the third gender entry option on Swiss passports and IDs.
And I just sent him an Instagram message like, “Hey, would you want to maybe get some coffee and talk about this?” And then I get an Instagram message back: “The Swiss president doesn’t answer Instagram, but we can certainly make a meeting happen.” It was one of his assistants, but then things got really crazy with Eurovision and fast-forward, I’m at the press conference. They asked me, “What’s the first thing you’re going to do when you get back to Switzerland?” I was like, “Well, I’m probably going to meet the Swiss president for coffee to talk to him about the third gender option on passports.”
And obviously I wasn’t exactly aware of how much impact just that one sentence would have, because I wasn’t aware that this moment had become so huge. But that became a national headline. Actually, I met him a month later with the lovely people of the Transgender Network Switzerland, and we talked about various options and things, but not just the third gender entry on passports, but also just safety and visibility for nonbinary people in general, trans people in Switzerland, and it was a really good conversation. And we just actually texted again for an update in the next couple of months because I really want to know what actually has changed. Switzerland is obviously like a slow democratic country in the way that everything is direct. We have direct democracy, so things tend to take time because every decision can be challenged in a way. People can propose their own laws. If you get 100,000 signatures, you
can propose a law and then the nation decides if this law is worth putting in place or not, but also you can challenge it. Overall, as I said, how can we increase security and visibility and build bridges? And I think that’s equally as important for nonbinary and trans people in Switzerland. So I’m excited to meet Mr. [Beat] Jans again and talk to him.
You’re touring Europe next year. Can we expect to see you in the U.S.? I would love to. I would love to come to the U.S. I think a good way to start for me in the U.S. would be to do a support tour somewhere with someone. I think that’d be a great way to get to know the country musically and get to know what touring feels like here, but definitely next year I’ll play in the U.S. in some way.
Your shows must just be like an operatic rave. Actually, I think that’s a great image. It’s just me singing “Queen of the Night,” 90 minutes straight.
What’s the timeline for your full debut album? It’s in the works. I booked a lot of studio time in January and February, so that’s when I want to finish the album and round it all off. But at the same time, I don’t want to have the pressure of saying it has to be absolutely done. But then I really want to make something that I’m super happy and excited about. And I think just good music takes time and I’m working on making my album the best thing I can possibly create. And so I want to be very gentle with that part of myself and just make sure I’m really happy with the result before committing to a release schedule. But definitely sometime next year.
I imagine it’s a lot of pressure. The debut is a defining moment. It initially defines your sound and who you are. Definitely. I feel like an album is such a nice way to capture a moment in time of your life and it feels like this very extensive journal entry. Q
Chris Azzopardi is the editorial director of Pride Source Media Group and Q Syndicate. He has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Cher, Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. His work has also appeared in The New York Times, Vanity Fair, GQ and Billboard. Reach him via X @chrisazzopardi.
Robbie Williams: The Straight Pop Star Who Made Space for My Queer Identity
While Williams is not gay, he notes that many of his musical influences have been
BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI
Ihad already agreed to an interview with Robbie Williams before realizing he wasn’t queer at all. That’s on me. As a teenager who was fond of his anthemic ballad “Angel” and then saw him strip down to his briefs (and much less) in the “ Rock DJ ” video, I couldn’t help but hope he was.
Our pop idols have limited control over how we perceive them and their sexual identity (just ask Shawn Mendes, Harry Styles and even Taylor Swift), and in my wishful thinking as a gay kid growing up in the 1990s without much representation, I missed the part where Williams sued a British tabloid in 2005 for claiming he had a “secret gay lover” and performed a sex act on a man in a Manchester club bathroom. (The tabloid ultimately apologized and paid “substantial” damages to the pop star.)
Then I lost track of him for a while. Now, he’s the subject of an entire biopic, “Better Man,” where he’s portrayed by a CGI chimpanzee. Though human actors surround him in “The Greatest Showman” director Michael Gracey’s film, this animal version of Williams serves as a symbol of his complex feelings about fame, as he contemplates how he sees himself in a world that often dictates the roles we’re supposed to play. For a time, Williams became something he wasn’t for me.
Our idols can only control their narrative to a certain extent, and when I finally connected with him during our video call and realized only hours before while researching that he is, in fact, completely straight, I learned that Williams is the kind of guy who, even if he wasn’t the representation I once hoped for as a struggling gay teen,
would be proud to have your back.
“Look, if I fancied noshing some bloke off by the canal, I’d have noshed some bloke off by the canal,” he tells me, in response to my ask about the lawsuit, which he said he appreciated having the opportunity to respond to. “The visual of that, I am perfectly OK with; it was important for me to be me at the time. Just like it’s important for you to be you in every aspect and to be seen and to be heard.”
“I’m not disrespecting anybody or getting my handbag and going, ‘Heaven forbid that people think of this disgusting thing [about] me,’” he continues. If someone were to create an AI-imagined version of Williams engaged in a samesex encounter (his exact words: “AI me doing it”), “I’ll watch it myself,” he says. Williams’ honesty extends into “Better Man,” where we see a version of him that’s raw and vulnerable. It’s a portrayal grounded in his truth, not ours — or mine.
The film delves into the psychological toll of his fame and his constant struggle to escape the shadow of his father, Pete Conway, a beloved entertainer in the U.K. It’s a reminder that, for all his charisma, Williams is still just a man who grew up in a working-class town, trying to navigate a life that skyrocketed him to stardom in 1990 at just 16 years old, as the youngest member of the British boy band that would eventually become known as Take That. The film captures the group’s meteoric rise to fame, particularly within queer spaces. Williams recalls, “For the first 18 months, all we played were gay clubs.”
Williams quickly formed a deep connection with the queer community. When I ask him about his memories of performing at gay clubs while preparing for those scenes in “Better Man,” his laugh prompts me to delve further.
“OK, the laugh’s about this: It’s my first memory of being in a gay club when I’m 16,” he starts, amused by what he’s about to say but also
acknowledging uncertainty about telling a story that “may not land.”
“I’m sat in a banquette in this part of the club where a curtain is pulled in front of it and it’s a makeshift dressing room. And I am sat by myself and there’s a man in the corner and he appears to be masturbating. And I’m like, ‘Oh my god. What?’ And I’m sort of frozen and I’m thinking, ‘But what do I do in this? I’m cool. Just be cool.” And it turns out it was a stripper and he was blowing his penis up for his performance. He wasn’t masturbating at all. And so that was sort of a memory flashback that I got.”
The film stops short of exploring that memory. Biographical movies, of course, often face limitations in delving into deeply personal stories. Williams offers
Chris Azzopardi
“many different reasons” for this restraint.
“Lots of them being that a lot of people are still alive and will sue me and I can’t prove it in a court of law that it actually happened,” he says.
But Williams’ childhood in Stokeon-Trent, a city in Staffordshire, England, gets plenty of attention. He tells me it’s “considered the hood in modern parlance or thereabouts,” and recalls that “‘gay’ was a slur and something to be feared and ridiculed.”
Life took a dramatic turn for him at 15, after his audition led him to Take That. Soon thereafter, he found himself being admired by half-naked gay men in clubs, a stark contrast that he vividly described as transformative: “I went from being in a place where I used to wonder which shoes to put on by how much violence was going to be at the place that I was going to — steel toe cap boots if it was going to be really bad — and then, all of a sudden, I was in this place of acceptance and warmth and silliness.”
It’s a place that Williams, who is now 50, is familiar with, and since his teen rise, he has come to understand his place in gay culture even, as he says, “I don’t understand the queer lifestyle, I’m not of it.”
“But,” he goes on, “I understand that I am accepted there and I’m loved and I’m wanted and I am needed. And from that moment on I know what my response to and of it is, which is gratitude.”
From an early age, Williams says he latched onto the queer community’s sense of playfulness and lightheartedness. “I have been mainly inspired by Black culture and gay culture,” he says. “And they are two things that I am incredibly grateful for to this day.
“As British people, we’re camp. We put on dresses. We go to these theater shows where women play guys and guys play women. And the people that are on the TV as you’re growing up are camp and are warm and silly. I’ll go back to that word ‘silly’ that means so much to me: I take silly very seriously,” he says.
He speaks highly of the “warmth of people” like Larry Grayson, a popular British comedian and TV presenter who was rumored to be gay, but only hinted at it toward the end of his life. “No one had a clue that he was gay, but it’s
just so obvious now,” Williams says.
“And Freddie Mercury, who is an angel, and every time I see him represented on screen and in documentaries I just am gobsmacked of his very presence and his very being,” he adds. “And then, of course, you’ve got Elton. Boy George changed the world with one appearance on ‘Top of the Pops,’ which is our TV show. So you are surrounded and also influenced and informed — well, I was anyway, of how to act, how behave, and how to be gentle and warm and arch.”
During our interview, it became clear that Williams holds a deep respect for the LGBTQ+ community, offering insights that go beyond surface-level understanding. His connection to the queer community extends beyond performing at gay clubs; he actively seeks to understand the people who’ve been following him for decades.
“I suppose that there is a certain set of self-examination that has to be done because it’s forced upon you, that people in the straight community aren’t forced to do,” he says. “So I’m sure that that self-examination elevates you to a place that people wouldn’t normally have to have had done because you are forced to. There’s an elevation in thought because of the process that you’ve had to go through.”
He likens his journey of being understood by the public to mine, as a gay man, and says that the rumors surrounding him stem from his desire for his true self to be represented accurately and authentically. “I am bothered about being authentic, and so are you. You are bothered about being authentically you in a world that has told you you can’t be you. The world was telling me I couldn’t be me. And it was really important for me to say, ‘No, I’m going to be me and I’m going to be me 100%.’”
In 2013, the rumors he debunked were met with a quote from Williams, as expressed to The Daily Star, that acknowledged that he was “49 percent homosexual,” a remark that led The Guardian to criticize his reliance on stereotypes.
“I love musical theater and a lot of the other things that are often associated with gays. I am 49 percent homosexual and sometimes as far as 50 percent.
However, that would imply that I enjoy having a particular sort of fun, which I don’t,” he said at the time.
And recently, while speaking to journalist Michael Cragg at The Guardian, Williams explained his reasoning for challenging the gay rumors made by a British tabloid via a lawsuit: “I was more sad. Not about gay accusations because look, I’ve done everything but suck a cock. Honestly, you’ve never met somebody that wants to be gay as much as me.”
“I was maligned, belittled, disrespected, hated, followed, harangued, phonetapped,” he shares with me about his experiences with the British tabloids.
“People on the payroll being told to give rumors about me, tell them where I was, people who were in the credit card companies. And my only way of representing myself at the time was to do a book, and the book would say everything about who I was. So I released this book as a way of going, ‘If you hate me, at least hate me for the right reasons.’”
“The same week that comes out,” he continues, “there’s a story in a newspaper about how I sucked some bloke’s dick by a canal. And now the only thing about that was I’d gone to great pains to tell everybody who I was, and here was this story saying I’m actually not telling people who I am and what I was. And that, not the fact that I’m by a canal on my knees, noshing off some bloke, I’m not bothered; the thing that pained me was, yet again, I’m telling my truth and I’m exposing myself so much, but there’s this thing representing me that isn’t true.”
However Williams chooses to identify, it’s clear he might not have been the man I thought he was when I was a teenager desperate for queer representation, but he is, at least, the first to admit that the truth, messy and imperfect as it may be, is the only thing that matters. And in a world that often demands we fit into predefined boxes, his journey is a reminder that we’re all just trying to be seen for who we truly are — no matter who that is. Q
Chris Azzopardi is the editorial director of Pride Source Media Group and Q Syndicate. He has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Cher, Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. His work has also appeared in The New York Times, Vanity Fair, GQ and Billboard. Reach him via X @chrisazzopardi.
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REVIEW BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER
‘When the Band Played On: The Life of Randy Shilts, America’s Trailblazing Gay Journalist’ by Michael G. Lee
C.2025, CHICAGO REVIEW PRESS, $30, 282 PAGES
You spent most of your early career playing second fiddle. But now you’ve got the baton, and a story to tell that people aren’t going to want to hear, though it’s essential that they face the music. They must know what’s happening. As in the new book
“When the Band Played On” by Michael G. Lee, this time, it’s personal. Born in 1951 in small-town Iowa, Randy Shilts was his alcoholic, abusive mother’s third of six sons. Frustrated, drunk, she reportedly beat Shilts almost daily when he was young; she also called him a “sissy,” which “seemed to follow Randy everywhere.”
Perhaps because of the abuse, Shilts
BY SAM KELLEY-MILLS
ARIES March 20–April 19
Love is in the air, and you have a lot of desire in your heart. There is nothing wrong with having standards, but keep your priorities in check. Caring for yourself is crucial, but never underestimate the pleasure of giving to others.
TAURUS Apr 20–May 20
There is a lot you need to do. Get a grip in a way that feels good. Chaos never feels good, but the temptation to shake things up can be very real. Tread carefully and make things interesting without creating a lot of problems.
GEMINI May 21–June 20
A buddy could be hitting you up for some good times. Enjoy spending time with a person you love or care about a lot. The time for fun times and good
the bookworm sez
had to “teach himself social graces,” developing “adultlike impassiveness” and “biting sarcasm,” traits that featured strongly as he matured and became a writer. He was exploring his sexuality then, learning “the subtleties of sexual communication,” while sleeping with women before fully coming out as gay to friends.
Nearing his twenty-first birthday, Shilts moved to Oregon to attend college and to “allow myself love.” There, he became somewhat of an activist before leaving for San Francisco to fully pursue journalism, focusing on stories of gay life that were “mostly unknown to anyone outside of gay culture.”
He would bounce between Oregon and California several times, though he never lost sight of his writing career and, through it, his activism. In both states, Shilts reported on gay life, until he was well-known to national readers and gay influencers. After San Francisco supervisor Harvey Milk was assassinated, he was tapped to write Milk’s biography.
By 1982, Shilts was in love, had a book under his belt, a radio gig, and a regular byline in a national publication reporting “on the GRID beat,” an acronym later changed to AIDS. He was even under contract to write a second book.
feelings is here, so make the best of it. The heat is on, so go with it!
CANCER June 21–July 22
Whatever you decide is important. There is no denying that it’s a good time for reflection. Find something that makes you feel satisfied. Spend time with friends and let the good times flow. Keep your head clean while doing it.
LEO July 23–August 22
Nothing is stopping you from doing well despite the doubts in your mind. Take time to understand the choices you have to decide accordingly. Let thoughts flow naturally, but don’t forget to get out and do something fun.
VIRGO August 23–Sep 2
Changes matter, and important matters are asking for attention. Focus on what needs to be done and take action. Financial matters demand attention, but your love life is what really provides comfort and a true sense of purpose.
But Shilts was careless. Just once, careless. “In hindsight,” says Lee, “… it was likely the night when Randy crossed the line, becoming more a part of the pandemic than just another worried bystander.”
Perhaps not surprisingly, there are two distinct audiences for “When the Band Played On.” One type of reader will remember the AIDS crisis and the seminal book about it. The other is too young to remember it, but needs to know Randy Shilts’ place in its history.
The journey may be different, the result is the same: author Michael G. Lee tells a complicated, still-controversial story of Shilts and the book that made America pay attention, and it’s edgy for modern eyes. Lee clearly shows why Shilts had fans and haters, why Shilts was who he was, and Lee keeps some mystery in the tale: Shilts had the knowledge to keep himself safe but he apparently didn’t, and readers are left to wonder why. There’s uncomfortable tension in that, and a lot of hypothetical thinking to be had.
For scholars of gay history, this is an essential book to read. Also, for anyone too young to remember AIDS as it was, “When the Band Played On” hits the right note. Q
LIBRA Sept 23–October 22
Trying out new things is a great idea, and with the help of a trusted family member, you can do just that. Exploring new aspects of life and finding new ways to expose the better parts of life. What matters the most is already here.
SCORPIO Oct 23–Nov 21
There could be an opportunity for love or pleasure and so many options that you might not know where to start. Get involved with new friends or rekindle a past relationship. It’s all about social life now more than ever. Enjoy!
SAGITTARIUS Nov 22–December 20
Nothing will stop you from getting what you want, even if that means bending a few rules. Don’t be a rebel, but small risks could be worth the rewards. Move forward with a long-term goal and get yourself a major win!
CAPRICORN
Dec 21–Jan 19
Reflect on a current dilemma, but don’t dwell on the past. A fresh perspective on the future could come to you if you explore new hobbies or delve into a group activity. The world is full of wonders don’t be afraid to find them.
AQUARIUS Jan 20–Feb 18
There is some plight, but it’s not so bad. Take matters into your own hands, but don’t grip so tight. Slow and steady is the way to go when dealing with personal matters. You don’t want to hurt anyone in fact, quite the opposite.
PISCES Feb 19–Mar 19
You might feel better now than you have in a long time! Take the time for projects that have been put to the side and get back in touch with past relationships. Work on spicing up your life by having social gatherings or a book club.. Q
Kyle’s Bed & Breakfast by Greg Fox
Bridget Over
Troubled Waters
ACROSS
1 What the $ in 59Down stands for
5 Wild way to run
10 Like characters in “Kinky Boots”
14 Nick and Nora’s dog
15 Was excessive with the mouth
16 Island of Barrie’s land
17 Docking site
18 Absinthe flavoring
19 Gay Bob, for example
20 Dixie Chicks’ “Goodbye ___”
21 Supernatural horror comedy film of Bridget Everett
23 Rupert Everett look in “Inspector Gadget”
25 Follows up on a kiss?
26 Aunt in _Bambi_
27 With 50-Across, American drama film of Bridget Everett
29 Sweaters at a sauna
31 Coin of Foucault
32 Gasteyer of “SNL”
33 Lance once of ‘N Sync
37 Kidman’s award for “The Hours”
40 Casino gratuity
44 James Cameron film of 2009
46 “Marriage ___” (civil union, derogatorily)
48 Nureyev’s nyet
49 Submit (to)
50 See 27-Across
52 Zion church
53 Dusting for bottoms
55 Makes less difficult to bear
56 American drama film of Bridget Everett
60 Lorca’s “but”
61 Malcolm Boyd, for example
62 Caesar’s “See!”
64 Film set VIP
65 Misleads with the tongue
66 P’s for Socrates
67 Chemical suffix
68 Judy Garland’s parade day
69 Spills one’s seed
70 Article written by Marlene Dietrich DOWN
1 Ambiguously Gay Duo attire
2 Mishima and Ang Lee
3 Family room feature
4 Langston Hughes’ home for many years
5 Word on an Asian map
6 Algonquian spirits
7 Came together
8 High-priced
9 Solemn sound
10 “West Story”
11 Cross-dresser J. Edgar
12 Looking for internet porn, maybe
13 Oak Lawn locale
22 Where to see sweaty athletes
24 Second pitches for Copland
28 Crude dude
30 Bit of grain for a stallion
32 Painting and sculpture, to Michelangelo
33 Fruit metaphor for a troublemaker
34 Prayer to the Queen of Heaven
35 Locks on arms
36 Sault Marie
38 Spike Lee crime drams
39 Prepare to shoot straight
41 Like a Mobius strip
42 Garbo role as Anna
43 They don’t look good
45 Broadway performer, e.g.
47 Mary’s little lamb, perhaps
50 P. Hearst’s kidnappers
“Heather Two Mommies”
Rock Hudson or Robert Reed
HIV exam, e.g.
Q mmunity groups
BUSINESS
LGBTQ+ Affirmative
Therapists Guild
lgbtqtherapists.com
* jim@lgbtqtherapists.com
Utah LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce
utahlgbtqchamber.com
* info@utahgaychamber.com
Utah Independent Business Coalition
utahindependentbusiness.org 801-879-4928
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-7233
YWCA of Salt Lake
ywcautah.org
322 E 300 S 801-537-8600
HEALTH & HIV
Planned Parenthood
bit.ly/ppauslchiv
654 S 900 E 801-322-5571
Salt Lake County Health
Dept STD Clinic
slco.org/health/ std-clinic/
610 S 200 E, 2nd Floor
Walk-ins M-F 8a-5p Appts 385-468-4242
UAF Legacy Health
uafhealth.org
150 S 1000 E 801-487-2323
Weber-Morgan Health
Mon., Weds 1-4:30p 477 23rd St, Ogden Appt 801-399-7250
HOMELESS SVCS
VOA Homeless Youth Resource Ctr, ages 15—21
880 S 400 W 801-364-0744
LEGAL
Rainbow Law Free Clinic
2nd Weds 6-7:30pm
Olpin Student Union, Panorama East probono@law.utah.edu
POLITICAL
Equality Utah equalityutah.org
* info@equalityutah.org
376 E 400 S 801-355-3479
Utah Libertarian Party
129 E 13800 S #B2-364 libertarianutah.org 866-511-UTLP
Utah Stonewall Democrats
utahstonewalldemocrats.org
fb.me/ utahstonewalldems
SPIRITUAL
First Baptist Church
firstbaptist-slc.org
11a Sundays
777 S 1300 E 801-582-4921
Mt. Tabor Lutheran Church
10:30a Sunday worship
175 S 700 E 801-328-0521
mttaborslc.org
Sacred Light of Christ
slcchurch.org
823 S 600 E 801-595-0052
11a Sundays
The Divine Assembly
thedivineassembly.org
10am Sunday worship
389 W 1830 S, 11am meditation, 12pm 532 E 800 N, Orem SOCIAL
Alternative Garden Club
utahagc.org/clubs/ altgardenclub/
1 to 5 Club (bisexual)
fb.com/ groups/1to5clubutah
blackBOARD
Men’s Kink/Sex/BDSM education, 1st, 3rd Mons.
blackbootsslc.org
blackBOOTS Kink/BDSM
Men’s leather/kink/ fetish/BDSM 4th Sats.
blackbootsslc.org
Dudes Movie Night
Fourth Thursday Dinner and Social fb.com/ groups/312955669422305/ Gay Men’s Sack Lunch
6:30p Tuesdays
utahpridecenter.org
68 S Main St
801-539-8800
Gay Men’s Support Group
Noon Wednesdays
utahpridecenter.org
68 S Main St
801-539-8800
Mindfully Gay
mindfullygay.com
OWLS of Utah (Older, Wiser, Lesbian Sisters)
bit.ly/owlsutah
qVinum Wine Tasting
qvinum.com
Seniors Out and Proud
fb.me/soaputah
* info@soaputah.org
801-856-4255
Temple Squares Square Dance Club
templesquares.org
801-449-1293
Utah Bears
utahbears.com
fb.me/utahbears
* info@utahbears.com
6pm Weds Salt Lake Roasting Co 860 E 400 S
Utah Male Naturists
umen.org
fb.me/utahmalenaturists
* info@umen.org
Utah Pride Center
utahpridecenter.org
* info@utahpridecenter.org
1380 S Main St
801-539-8800
Venture OUT Utah
bit.ly/GetOutsideUtah SPORTS
Cheer Salt Lake
cheersaltlake.com
QUAC — Queer Utah Aquatic Club
quacquac.org
* questions@ quacquac.org
Salt Lake Goodtime Bowling League
bit.ly/slgoodtime
Stonewall Sports SLC
fb.me/SLCStonewall
stonewallsaltlakecity. leagueapps.com 385-243-1828
Utah Gay Football League
fb.me/UtahGayFootballLeague
Venture Out Utah
facebook.com/groups/ Venture.OUT.Utah
SUPPORT
Alcoholics Anonymous
801-484-7871
utahaa.org
LGBT meetings: Sun. 3p Acceptance Group, All Saints Episcopal Church, 1710 Foothill Dr
Tues. 7p Live & Let Live, Mt Tabor Tues. 7p Pride in Recovery, Narcotics Anon. UPC, 68 S Main Wed. 7p Sober Today, 1159 30th St , Ogden Wed. 7p Bountiful Men’s Group, Am. Baptist Btfl Church, 1915 Orchard Dr, Btfl Fri. 7p Stonewall Group, Mt Tabor Lutheran, 175 S 700 E Crystal Meth Anon
crystalmeth.org
USARA, 180 E 2100 S Clean, Sober & Proud Sun. 1:30pm
Leather Fetish & Kink Fri. 8:30pm
Genderbands
genderbands.org
fb.me/genderbands
LifeRing Secular Recovery
801-608-8146
liferingutah.org
Weds. 7pm, How was your week? First Baptist Church, 777 S 1300 E Sat. 11am, How was your week? First Baptist Church, 777 S 1300 E LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapists Guild
lgbtqtherapists. com
* robin@lgbtqtherapists.com
YOUTH/COLLEGE
Encircle LGBTQ Family and Youth Resource Ctr
encircletogether.org fb.me/encircletogether
91 W 200 S, Provo, 190 S 100 E, St. George 331 S 600 E, SLC
Gay-Straight Alliance Network
gsanetwork.org
OUT Foundation BYU
theout.foundation
fb.me/theOUTfoundation
Salt Lake Community College LGBTQ+
slcc.edu/lgbtq/ University of Utah LGBT Resource Center
lgbt.utah.edu
200 S Central Campus Dr Rm 409, M-F, 8a-5p 801-587-7973
USGA at BYU
usgabyu.com
fb.me/UsgaAtByu
Utah State Univ. Inclusion Ctr
usu.edu/inclusion/ Utah Valley Univ Spectrum
linktr.ee/ spectrumqsa
uvu.edu/lgbtq/ * lgbt@uvu.edu 801-863-8885
Liberal Arts, Rm 126 Weber State University LGBT Resource Center
weber.edu/ lgbtresourcecenter Shepherd Union Suite 323 Dept. 2117 801-626-7271
Westminster Student Diversity Center Bassis 105, M-F 8a-5p
bit.ly/westdiversity
Youth Discord Virtual Hangout
6p Wednesdays
Open to all youth 14-20. Email jay@ utahpridecenter.org to get access
JOIN OUR GROUP OF ACTIVE OUT SENIORS
Our Vision is to reduce social isolation and loneliness, improve the health and well-being of older adults and to empower them to lead meaningful and connected lives in which they are engaged and participating in the community. Our Mission is to reimagine aging by empowering older adults to live life to the fullest potential guided by these five pillars:
• Cherish the Journey
• Encourage the Body
Recent events: Snowshoeing, Bingo, Valentines Pot Luck & Dance, Movie Night, Walking Groups, Theater groups
• Inspire the Mind
• Nurture the Spirit
• Empower the Future Find us at SeniorsOutAndProudUtah.org and Facebook.com/SOAPUtah
HAPPINESS
BY ROMEO SAN VICENTE
Sean Hayes, Katy O’Brian and Lee Pace run to Stephen King
There’s a remake of the 1987 film “The Running Man” on the block. Long before “The Hunger Games” we had this earlier dystopian vision of a future where people competed to survive and professional killers tracked them (and it may be due to the success of “Hunger Games” that this one has sprung back to paranoid life). The earlier adaptation of the Stephen King (er… “Richard Bachman”) novel starred Arnold Schwarzenegger, and this one has movie-star-of-the-moment Glen Powell (“Twisters”) alongside Josh Brolin, “CODA” star Emilia Jones, and queer actors Katy O’Brian, Lee Pace and “Will & Grace” alum Sean Hayes. Will all this queer talent translate into any sort of LGBTQ+ narrative within the larger story? No one’s telling. And frankly, we just like to see this many gays with jobs in one place. Look for it next November.
Nyle DiMarco hits Sundance with ‘Deaf President Now!’
Deaf queer model, actor and author Nyle DiMarco won his cycle of “America’s Next Top Model” and his season of “Dancing With The Stars” was an Academy Award-nominated producer of the 2021 documentary short, “Audible,” and has now co-directed a feature documentary with Davis Guggenheim (“Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie”) called “Deaf President Now!” It recounts an important piece of Deaf culture history that took place at Gallaudet University, a school for Deaf students, in Washington, D.C. In the late ’80s, the lone hearing candidate for university president was selected, sparking a wave of student protests that succeeded in breaking down barriers. What will make this documentary different is what its creatures are calling “Deaf Point of View,” which will use American Sign Language as its principle language and will approach visuals and sound design in a way that helps hearing audiences better understand the perspective of the Deaf community.
deep inside hollywood
The film premieres at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival with distribution to follow from Apple Original Films.
Murray Hill to host ‘King of Drag’
It’s time, really, for the drag kings to get their own reality competition, now that “RuPaul’s Drag Race” has become an institution and rite of passage for many drag queens who want to step up to the next level of their careers. And who better to host it than “Somebody Somewhere” star Murray Hill, whose trans masc life informed that wonderful HBO series’ narrative, and whose talents as a bon vivant are evident every time he hits the stage. The show is called “King of Drag” and the first six-episode season will feature eight drag king performers competing for the title. And because the kings are not the same as the queens, the competitive aspect will focus more on those differences than the usual reality show challenges. In other words, don’t expect what you’ve seen before. It premieres this spring on the LGBTQ+ streaming platform Revry.
Janis Ian keeps ‘Breaking Silence’
Perhaps you’re young enough to think “Janis Ian” is merely the name of a character from “Mean Girls.” Well, you’re wrong. She’s an actual queer icon, whose provocative hit singles of the late 1960s and into the ’70s – “Society’s Child” and “At Seventeen” – pushed audiences to deal with pop that was thoughtful and wise. Coming out as a lesbian well before it was career-safe to do so was yet another risk she took. Therefore, it’s fitting now, after all these years, that the legend get her flowers. “Breaking Silence,” a documentary from Varda Bar-Kar, features the singer-songwriter reviewing her own life, as well as a host of her peers extolling her significance: artists like Joan Baez, Arlo Guthrie, Lily Tomlin, Kathy Mattea, Jean Smart and Laurie Metcalf, among others. If you’re a long-time fan, it’ll be a sweet reminder of the musician you love, and if you’re new to this real-life Janis Ian, it’ll be a great place to get acquainted. It opens at an arthouse near you in March 2025.
The ‘Wicked’ career of Jonathan Bailey
Queers who haven’t watched “Bridgerton” or “Fellow Travelers” are getting what may be their first look at gay actor Jonathan Bailey in “Wicked,” as the man who’s winning the hearts of both Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. Of course, Christmas 2025 will see him back in “Wicked: Part Two,” but new fans won’t have long to wait for more of him: he’s wrapped shooting “Jurassic World Rebirth,” the next chapter in the nowdecades-long “Jurassic” film franchise. Co-starring Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali and Rupert Friend, the movie is set five years down the road from “Jurassic World Dominion” and the earth’s climate is no longer compatible with the dinosaurs. It also turns out that the remaining creatures might hold the genetic key to a human-life-saving miracle drug. This is only fair after all the people they ate in the previous films. Look for the big summer movie — when else — in July.
Ian McKellen joins Steven Soderbergh’s ‘The Christophers’
We’re loving the recent viral internet pic of 85-year-old Sir Ian McKellen out at the club with go-go boys, because life is, after all, for living. Of course, he also never stops working. Case in point: he’s always on stage somewhere in London, and he’s starring in the latest project from another man who chooses never to retire, Steven Soderberg. The film is called “The Christophers” and it’s a dark comedy involving the estranged children of a famous artist who hire a forger to finish their fathers’ paintings so that they can be sold after his death. It co-stars James Corden and “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” and “I May Destroy You” actor Michaela Coel, and is written by Ed Solomon, who’s already collaborated with Soderbergh on the film “No Sudden Move” and the TV series “Mosaic” and “Full Circle.” In production now, figure to get first looks sometime in late 2025, probably while both Soderbergh and McKellen will have already wrapped something else.
Romeo San Vicenta learned the truth at 17
TheA tale of helium heels
BY PETUNIA PAP SMEAR
road to Crystal Hot Springs is fraught with danger and excitement.
I do not own a hot tub. My personal belief is that they require too much upkeep and raise the power bills. Not to mention that you tend to get a lot of folks inviting themselves over when you’re really not prepared for or desirous of entertaining visitors. The first telltale sign that someone wants to soak in your tub is if they say, “I think I can feel a storm coming in my joints.” Then they begin hinting that they have various aches and pains in many body parts, which should remain unmentioned. Occasionally, some less discrete folk will try and expose their various unmentionable parts to demonstrate how swollen they are, in a bid to solicit an invitation to soak.
Now, I have plenty of aches and pains of my own. My back is all messed up on account of the elastic in my girdle unexpectedly giving way. The momentum of such a sudden release of my belly’s bountiful blubber threw my back out. Not to mention that in the rebound, my left breasticle flew up and dislocated my shoulder. To add insult to injury, when the girdle’s waistband gave way, it became like a deadly bullwhip and took out my right knee with an ear-shattering snap, crackle, and pop. Therefore, I was overjoyed when a couple of folks hinted to my friend Terry that they wanted him to organize a group outing to Crystal Hot Springs in Honeyville, Utah.
-Oh, I do enjoy a good hot spring outing for a good warm soak, especially in the winter. I do not, however, appreciate those undeveloped steaming holes in the ground with muddy banks, covered with prickly weeds, where you have to carefully dodge the occasional cow pie and climb past a NO TRESPASSING sign and through a barbed wire fence. Not to mention undressing in front of an audience of cows watching your every move with their big, sad eyes.
Especially the pools where you can’t see or feel the bottom, because this queen, with my size 75 triple-Z breasticles and Sumo-size tummy, does not float. I only enjoy fully developed springs equipped with changing rooms, showers, and a full buffet. Oh, and lifeguards are also a bonus. Sadly, hardly any pools fulfill my buffet desires, but Crystal Springs does at least have a vending machine.
So, Terry assembled a lovely bunch of twinks, twunks, and hunks to accompany this geriatric hag, armed with a purple pool noodle as my queenly scepter to rejuvenate in the magical mineral waters. No sooner had we entered the large soaking pool than I straddled my pool noodle and began to bob around in the water with steam rising about my face. I inadvertently bumped into one of the twinks. He quickly spun around and looked at me suspiciously, asking, “Was that your noodle, or are you just happy to see me?”
Suddenly, the younger members of our entourage were enticed away to try their luck on the water slide. As they scurried away to the slide, disappearing into the cloud of steam rising from the pool, I remained alone, forlornly bobbing unaccompanied in the warm water. Like the Titanic, right before she went under. I swear I heard a foghorn in the distance.
As I listened to distant shrieks and squeals from the slide, I recalled an ancient trauma from a different outing a long time ago to a hot spring far, far away. I was with a large group attempting to make a daisy chain on a water slide. On that occasion, I ended up being the final link in a chain of fifteen people. I was especially excited because the guy directly in front of me, Trent, who was designated to hold onto my ankles was, how shall I say, a highly desirous hunk-ahunk of burnin’ love. I had been secretly lusting over him all day. Trent grasped my ankles with strong hands. I could see the muscles in his arms and shoulders
ripple with intensity. I could barely contain my excitement at his touch. Off we went down the slide. Trent had hold of my ankles, and I thought I was in heaven. As we picked up speed, the water was splashing in my face. I could not see anything. As we came to the first turn, like a slingshot, I was flung up to the top of the hydro tube and then violently and painfully crashed down. On the next turn, it happened again. Despite my hormonal urge to remain being touched by Trent, I yelled for him to let me go for self-preservation. He didn’t respond to my plea. A third turn and another crash. I thought I was gonna die. I began to kick Trent’s head to get him to release me, but to no avail. I was receiving the beating of my life. Justice finally prevailed, though, at the bottom of the slide when I landed squarely on top of Trent. His head ended up lodged firmly between my thighs. I squeezed his head tighter than a blacksmith’s vice holding a horseshoe. I think the pressure even popped a pimple on his nose.
This story leaves us with several important questions:
1. What kind of material can I install in my breasticles so they can be flotation devices?
2. Do they make girdles with safety release latches to prevent catastrophic discharge?
3. How does one restrain a wayward pool noodle?
4. Are hunks grasping ankles in water slides where the term Helium Heels comes from?
5. Did I squeeze Trent’s head as punishment or just so he couldn’t get away from me so I could get his number?
6. Would that kind of be like a Kathy Bates in “Misery” kind of hostage situation?
These and other eternal questions will be answered in future chapters of The Perils of Petunia Pap Smear. Q
