Washington Blade, Volume 56, Issue 09, February 28, 2025

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D.C. LGBTQ youth groups face funding ‘crisis’

from Trump anti-trans policies

SMYAL, Wanda Alston Foundation seek community support to avert program shutdowns

By LOU CHIBBARO JR.

The D.C. based LGBTQ youth advocacy and support groups SMYAL and the Wanda Alston Foundation, which among other things provide housing for homeless LGBTQ youth, have stated in recent messages to supporters that they face a potential funding “crisis” from Trump administration policies.

In fundraising messages sent to supporters by email, the two groups say Trump’s executive orders threatening to cut off all federal funding for organizations that provide services to transgender people, especially trans youth, could prevent them from providing what they call life-saving services to trans youth as well as all LGBTQ youth in D.C.

“Right now, the Wanda Alston Foundation’s youth and staff are facing unprecedented attacks, and we are grappling with one of the most challenging funding crises in our history,” the group states in a Feb. 6

email message to supporters.

The message notes that the Trump administration policies threatening to cut off funding for trans related youth programs were occurring at the same time that D.C. government agencies have “severely delayed payments” to groups like the Alston Foundation that rely on D.C. grants.

“This bureaucratic chaos is happening while LGBTQ+ youth—already disproportionately affected by homelessness and mental health crises—face increasing hostility in the political and social climate,” the Alston Foundation message says.

In its own fundraising message sent to supporters in a Jan. 31 email, SMYAL says the potential outcome of the Trump policies, including recent executive orders, could result in SMYAL losing as much as $88,000 every month.

“These funding cuts would have devastating consequences, limiting access to vital programs, mental health services, housing initiatives, and family support programs for queer and trans youth,” the message states. “We must come together to protect these essential resources and stand against policies that seek to erase and undermine our community,” it says.

Officials with both groups have since acknowledged that court rulings have forced the Trump administration to temporarily postpone the plan to immediately cut off all federal grant funding for programs related to trans youth. But the groups, along with national LGBTQ rights organizations, say the Trump funding cuts could very well take place in the near future.

In a statement to the Washington Blade, SMYAL Executive Director Erin Whelan said

Trans community removed from National Park Service’s Dupont Circle website

Description changed to ‘LGB community’ gathering place

By LOU CHIBBARO JR.

The National Park Service, which owns and maintains Dupont Circle as one of the National Capital Region’s national parks, has removed all references to transgender people from its website devoted to Dupont Circle’s history.

The website’s change in use of the term “LGBT” to “LGB” appears to have come shortly after the National Park Service on Feb. 13 removed all references to trans people from its website for the Stonewall National Monument in New York City’s Greenwich Village, which drew expressions of outrage from the LGBTQ community.

Other than removing the “T” and all other references to trans people, the National Park Service left in place on its Dupont Circle website a detailed description of the circle’s “LGB History.”

“Located at the intersection of Massa-

chusetts, Connecticut, and New Hampshire Avenues in Northwest Washington, D.C., Dupont Circle has served as the anchor of a neighborhood of diplomats, government officials, war commemorations, and the LGB community for over 200 years,” the website states.

“In the 1970s, Dupont Circle became a welcoming place for the city’s LGB community,” the description of Dupont Circle’s history continues. “Activist Deacon Maccubbin opened Earthworks, a craft store and ‘headshop’ that was the city’s first openly gay business that wasn’t a bar,” it says.

It goes on to say Maccubbin a short time later opened the Lambda Rising bookstore in the Dupont Circle area, and other “gay” organizations were located in the neighborhood, including the Gay Blade which later became the Washington Blade.

It points out that Maccubbin also organized the city’s first “Gay Pride Day” in 1975 in the Dupont Circle neighborhood that evolved into D.C.’s annual Pride festival and parade.

The website includes a photo of Dupont Circle taken during the 2022 DC Pride Festival, which includes someone displaying a flag representing the trans community.

Local LGBTQ groups in D.C. didn’t immediately comment on the removal of trans references to the National Park Service website on Dupont Circle. But LGBTQ groups, including those representing the trans community in New York, denounced the removal of trans references to the Stonewall National Monument.

“Transgender people play a critical role in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, and New York will never allow their contributions to

the group’s fundraising email came shortly before a federal court ruling required the U.S. Office of Management and Budget to temporarily rescind its Trump ordered policy of cutting off grant funds to groups like SMYAL.

“While the OMB memo has since been rescinded and is being challenged in court, we know that this is not the administration’s last attempt to cut federal funding for programs that impact the issues SMYAL works on,” Whalen said.

be erased,” said New York Gov. Kathy Hochul in a statement.

Longtime D.C. trans rights advocate Earline Budd points out the removal of trans references from the National Park Service’s Dupont Circle website is part of the national effort by the Trump-Vance administration to remove trans rights from all federal programs.

“So, it’s not just here. We’re being removed from everything,” Budd told the Washington Blade. “Anything federal we’re being removed based on the president’s mandate,” she said. “It’s really a scary time for what’s going on with this administration.”

Va. lawmakers pass two LGBTQ rights bills during 2025 session

Measures await Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s signature

By JOE REBERKENNY

The Virginia General Assembly’s 2025 legislative session ended on Feb. 22 with two LGBTQ rights bills awaiting Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s signature.

The first bill would amend the state’s definition of marriage to include members of the LGBTQ community. SJ 249, also known as the Constitutional Amend-

ment; Marriage between Two Adult Persons, would change the state’s definition of marriage to “between two adult persons” rather than “a union between one man and one woman.”

The second LGBTQ rights bill the General Assembly approved would amend the Virginia Human Rights Act.

Senate Bill 1052, also known as the Virginia Human Rights Act; Definition of ‘Employer,’ would eliminate what some have called a “small business exception” in existing law. The measure would extend human rights protections to employees of businesses with as few as five workers, ensuring they are covered under the Vir-

ginia Human Rights Act. It would also grant small business employees the right to file complaints against their employers for potential human rights violations, holding businesses legally accountable for any misconduct.

Youngkin has until March 24 to amend these bills.

SMYAL Executive Director ERIN WHELAN speaks at the organization›s annual Fall Brunch in D.C. on Sept. 21, 2024. (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Kenney Center cancels Gay Men’s Chorus concert

Move comes after Trump named Ric Grenell

interim executive director

By CHRISTOPHER KANE

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has cancelled “A Peacock Among Pigeons: Celebrating 50 Years of Pride,” a May 21 concert that was to feature the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC.

In a statement to the Washington Blade, Jean Davidson, executive director of the National Symphony Orchestra, said “Before the leadership transition at the Kennedy Center, we made the decision to postpone Peacock Among Pigeons due to financial and scheduling factors.”

“We chose to replace it with ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ another suitable program for World PRIDE participation,” she said. “Program changes are a common practice. We were unable to announce the replacement program until we had secured the rights to present it, but in the interest of transparency, we removed the original program from the website to prevent further ticket sales.”

The center’s decision predated President Donald Trump’s installment of himself as chair of the iconic institution earlier this month. He then picked gay former diplomat Ric Grenell to serve as interim executive director.

The Chorus released a statement that said the group was “deeply disappointed” to learn their concert with the National Symphony Orchestra was taken off the schedule. “We believe in the power of music to educate and uplift, to foster love, understanding, and community, and we regret that this opportunity has been taken away,” they said.

The organization pledged to “continue to seek spaces where our voices, our stories, and our music can be heard,” adding, “We will continue to advocate for artistic expression that reflects the depth and diversity of our community and country,” and “we will continue to sing and raise our voices for equality.”

The Chorus now plans to perform the show during the WorldPride International Cho-

ral Festival instead. The center did not provide a reason for the cancellation.

Announcing his takeover of the organization on Truth Social, Trump pledged that “no more drag shows” would be hosted there, even though they only accounted for a fraction of its programming.

The president purged most of the center’s board of trustees earlier this month, while Grenell has begun to fire employees, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Power outage impacts thousands in West End, Dupont Circle

Manhole on M Street caught

By JOE REBERKENNY

A manhole fire on Feb. 21 left a large chuck of the West End and parts of Dupont Circle without power.

Washington’s main power supplier, Pepco, confirmed to ANC commissioner Matt Johnson, who represents the southwest part of Dupont Circle’s ANC, that the cause of the outage stems from a manhole fire at 2100 M St., N.W.

fire

on Feb. 21

“There was a fire in a manhole at M and New Hampshire Avenue, N.W., at 4:30 a.m. this morning,” the Pepco representative told Johnson on Friday. “It also involved a manhole nearby, so 6 feeders from the two manholes were/are completely burned and destroyed. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time. The West End is the area largely affected although some of the affected area includes a small area in the 2B/Dupont Circle area.”

In addition to the impact on residential areas, many businesses were also forced to close due to the power outage.

Power has been restored to the area, but a source told the Washington Blade on Wednesday that streets remain closed because of the

fire.

Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC, performs at the Kennedy Center in 2024. (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

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Gay Calif. congressman resists ‘completely ridiculous’ US attorney inquiry

Robert Garcia earlier this month criticized Elon Musk

By CHRISTOPHER KANE

U.S. Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.) is pushing back after President Donald Trump’s interim U.S. attorney for D.C., Ed Martin, disclosed his office’s inquiry into whether the congressman’s remarks about Elon Musk earlier this month constituted a threat against a public official.

“This is completely ridiculous, to essentially threaten me with possible prosecution [and] investigations through the U.S. Department of Justice because I used a metaphor to criticize Elon Musk,” Garcia told The Bulwark’s Tim Miller during an interview on Feb. 20.

At issue is a Feb. 12 appearance on CNN during which, as Martin said in a letter to the congressman’s office, “When asked how Democrats can stop Elon Musk, you spoke clearly: ‘What the American public wants is for us to bring actual weapons to this bar fight. This is an actual fight for democracy.’”

He continued, “This sounds to some like a threat to Mr. Musk—an appointed representative of President Donald Trump who you call a ‘dick’—and government staff who work for him. Their concerns have led to this inquiry.”

Garcia’s comments came just after he participated in the first House subcommittee hearing on Musk’s DOGE, the Department of Government Efficiency, which was established by an executive order issued on the first day Trump took office.

In a statement to the Washington Blade, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (N.Y.) said “Rep. Robert Garcia is a thoughtful, hardworking, and law-abiding legislator who serves his constituents and the nation with distinction. House Democrats will not be intimidated by far-right extremists who are determined to weaponize the criminal justice system against Congress.”

Garcia serves on the powerful House Oversight Committee as well as in the Congressional Equality Caucus, as one of its 11 LGBTQ co-chairs. In November, he was elected the Democratic Caucus Leadership Representative.

“I’ve talked to a lot of folks, members of the House and others, who have been very supportive.” he said on Feb. 20. “I said, ‘Look, we can’t allow this singling out of me. It’s not really about me, right? This is about silencing critics and critics in Congress.’”

Later in the interview, he added “we’re talking to the appropriate folks, and of course, talking to folks in the Democratic leadership” who understand the broader stakes in terms of “our job” as House Democrats to “be the loyal opposition.”

U.S. Rep. Gerald Connolly (Va.), the Oversight Committee’s top Democrat, also issued a statement condemning Martin’s letter:

“This is a shameful attempt to silence and stifle congressional oversight. Mr. Martin—an organizer, financier, and legal representative for the January 6th insurrection—is weaponizing the Justice Department to carry out the president’s retribution tour.

“This ‘Operation Whirlwind’ is a smokescreen meant to distract from the true intentions of the Trump administration: Silencing criticism and snuffing out any attempt to exercise oversight of their misdeeds and perversion of the law. I can assure you that Congressman Garcia and our fellow Oversight Democrats will not be deterred by these threats, and we will continue to fight to safeguard our democracy and protect the rights of the American people we serve.”

Martin on Feb. 19 announced “Operation Whirlwind,” a new initiative to prosecute threats against public officials at all levels of government, which some critics and legal experts believe is primarily intended as a means of silencing criticism.

In addition to Garcia, Martin has sent letters to the Senate’s Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.) on Jan. 21, Feb. 3, and Feb. 11, indicating plans to review remarks he made in 2020 to see if they constituted unlawful threats against two of Trump’s U.S. Supreme Court nominees, Brett Kavanaugh and Neil Gorsuch.

“I want to tell you, Gorsuch,” Schumer said, “I want to tell you, Kavanaugh—you have released the whirlwind and you will pay the price. You won’t know what hit you if you go forward with these awful decisions.”

The top Senate Democrat was speaking during a rally about the conservative jurists’ potential revocation of decades-old constitutional protections for abortion, which they ultimately did in 2022 with their 5-4 decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

As detailed by aide to the senator in his response to Martin, “on March 5, 2020, the day after the comments referenced in your letter, Senator Schumer made the following remarks” from the Senate floor:

“Now, I should not have used the words I used yesterday. They didn’t come out the way I intended to. My

point was that there would be political consequences—political consequences—for President Trump and Senate Republicans if the Supreme Court, with the newly confirmed Justices, stripped away a woman’s right to choose.

“Of course, I didn’t intend to suggest anything other than political and public opinion consequences for the Supreme Court, and it is a gross distortion to imply otherwise. I am from Brooklyn. We speak in strong language.

“I shouldn’t have used the words I did, but in no way was I making a threat. I never—never—would do such a thing. Leader McConnell knows that, and Republicans who are busy manufacturing outrage over these comments know that too.”

The aide concluded, “As Senator Schumer’s statement on the Senate floor confirmed, the comments were not a threat to physically harm any person. I hope that this clarifying information is helpful.”

Shortly after Trump’s appointment of Martin, the conservative lawyer and activist dismissed pending cases against rioters who sacked the Capitol building on Jan. 6, 2021, fired the prosecutors who were involved, and began investigations into those who brought obstruction charges that were ultimately invalidated by a U.S. Supreme Court decision in June.

Barbara McQuade, a former federal prosecutor who teaches law at the University of Michigan and serves as a legal analyst for NBC News and MSNBC, told the Washington Post she had “never seen anything like these letters from a U.S. attorney,” who would typically assign agents to lead such a probe while abiding the Justice Department’s policy of not confirming or denying the existence of any investigation.

“It seems like a fair inference that these letters are designed more to chill free speech than to seek clarification, as they purport to do,” McQuade added.

Garcia agreed, telling Miller that the effort “could have a chilling effect on other folks that actually want to come out and criticize and oppose” Trump, Musk, the administration, or their allies.

Looking ahead, Martin has “given me, by the way, till Tuesday to respond to this letter,” Garcia noted. When asked about what he planned to do, the congressman said “we’re having some conversations about that” but “what we’re not going to do is stay silent.”

“The lesson here is not to retreat,” he said. “The lesson here is to push harder and continue to let people know they are literally trying to limit free speech.”

Discussing his remarks about Musk during an appearance on CNN on Feb. 20, Garcia said “what’s really critical at this moment, I think, for all of us to understand, is that we should be allowed to speak freely, and we certainly should be allowed to use figures of speech, and anyone that watches that can see that as a figure of speech or a metaphor in the way we’re describing this fight.”

The congressman added, “And it is a fight. This is a fight for democracy.”

U.S. Rep. ROBERT GARCIA (D-Calif.) (Screen capture: YouTube/MSNBC)

Mitch McConnell to retire at end of term

Longest serving Senate leader has long opposed LGBTQ rights

By CHRISTOPHER KANE

U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) will retire at the end of his term in 2027, he announced in a floor speech on Feb. 20.

Long regarded as the most consequential conservative voice in the Senate, the 83-year-old has served since 1985, a 40-year tenure that included three stints as the top Republican, distinguishing him as the chamber’s longest serving party leader in U.S. history.

McConnell stepped down from leadership last February, and the conference elected U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) to replace him in November. The Kentucky senator, who said he would finish the remainder of his term, gave little indication that he would seek reelection in 2026.

“Seven times, my fellow Kentuckians have sent me to the Senate,” McConnell told his colleagues in his speech on Thursday. “Every day in between, I’ve been humbled by the trust they placed in me to do their business right here.”

“Representing our commonwealth has been the honor of a lifetime,” he said. “I will not seek this honor an eighth time. My current term in the Senate will be my last.”

Politico noted that the senator “spoke in a notably halting voice,” with his announcement coming in the wake of recent health challenges including a fall earlier this month that left him using a wheelchair.

As  documented by GLAAD, McConnell has opposed LGBTQ rights throughout his career in politics, using his power as the Senate Republican leader to fight against same-sex marriage, the repeal of the military’s discriminatory “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” law, and LGBTQ-inclusive federal protections against hate crimes and employment discrimination.

Serving as the Republican minority leader in 2015, he was one of just six GOP senators who signed an amicus

brief urging the U.S. Supreme Court to reject marriage equality as the justices debated Obergefell v. Hodges.

When Congress voted to codify legal protections for married same-sex couples with the Respect for Marriage Act in 2022, McConnell declined to join the 12 Republican senators who broke with their party to support the measure, though he did not whip votes in either direction.

Trump threatens Maine’s governor over trans athlete ban

Janet Mills challenged president at governor’s meeting

By CHRISTOPHER KANE

President Donald Trump threatened to withhold federal funding from Maine after the state’s Democratic Gov. Janet Mills refused to say that she would enforce his administration’s ban on transgender women and girls competing in sports.

Their brief but heated exchange during a meeting of the National Governors Association at the White House on Feb. 21 kicked off when Mills agreed only to abide by “state and federal law” and Trump told her, “We are the federal law. You better do it because you’re not going to get any federal funding if you don’t.”

“See you in court,” Mills responded.

“Good,” Trump agreed, “I’ll see you in court. I look forward to that. That should be a real easy one. And enjoy your life after governor, because I don’t think you’ll be in elected politics.”

Two days after Trump’s issuance of the executive order “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports” on Feb. 5, the governing body responsible for overseeing high school

would still be allowed to compete because the ban was in conflict with provisions of the Maine state Human Rights Act.

The president previewed his proposal to condition

Trans rights rally to take place at US Capitol

Participants expected to protest outside White House

By JAYLON CURRY-HAGLER

Following the recent wave of legislation passed against transgender and gender diverse people across the country, the Trans Unity Coalition is holding a rally at the U.S. Capitol on Saturday.

The Trans Unity Coalition is a nonprofit advocacy organization established to support and empower the trans community across the country. Bree Taylor, the group’s founder and executive director, discussed the event, which will take place at 9:30 a.m. in front of the Capitol.

“This is a day for the transgender community, our allies, and elected officials to come together and address the needs of our community,” she said in a statement to the Washington Blade. “The goal here is empowerment.”

Trans activist and social influencer Kayden Coleman and researcher Chloe Schwenke are scheduled to speak on the current threats that the trans community, both in D.C. and around the country, face, as well as the needs of the community moving forward.

“We aim to make this a day which, in addition to the direct ongoing needs of the trans community, also touches on intersectional needs and the importance of inclusivity,” said Taylor.

The rally is set to begin with participants gathering at the Capitol before they march down Constitution Avenue. The event will end with a demonstration in front of the White House’s South Lawn.

The rally is expected to last about four hours. It is the 10th one the Trans Unity Coalition has held this year.

federal funding on states’ compliance with the policy during a Feb. 20 meeting of the Republican Governors Association.

Earlier on Feb. 21, Mills vowed in a statement that “If the president attempts to unilaterally deprive Maine school children from the benefit of federal funding, my administration and the attorney general will take appropriate and necessary legal action to restore that funding and the academic opportunity it provides.”

Echoing her comments, the state’s Democratic Attorney General Aaron Frey said in a statement that “Any attempt by the president to cut federal funding in Maine unless transgender athletes are restricted from playing sports would be illegal and in direct violation of court orders.”

“Fortunately, though, the rule of law still applies in this country, and I will do everything in my power to defend Maine’s laws and block efforts by the president to bully and threaten us,” he said.

The group on Jan. 30 held similar rallies in Michigan, California, Texas, Massachusetts, Kentucky, Utah, Georgia, Ohio, and Colorado. Those rallies were held at each respective states’ capitals.

sports in Maine said trans athletes

U.S. Sen. MITCH MCCONNELL (R-Ky.) (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

President DONALD TRUMP (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

US aid cuts further imperil Ukraine’s LGBTQ community

Feb.

24 marked three years since Russia launched war

By AYMAN ECKFORD

Feb. 24 marks three years since Russia began its full-scale attack on my home country, Ukraine. I haven’t been in Ukraine for more than 10 years, and I spent almost all those years in LGBTQ activism.

I was barely an adult when my family left my hometown, Donetsk, after the declaration of the so-called Donetsk People’s Republic by Russian puppet separatists in 2014.

So many things have changed since then—my school friend was barely able to escape the Mariupol bombings together with two little children. Small cities in the Donetsk region that were barely known to outsiders and were places of my father’s business trips turned into battlefields frequently mentioned in international news. And all my queer acquaintances except for one left Ukraine.

This revealed how the world has shifted into globalization and how LGBTQ rights are used as bargaining chips in political debates, and now the fate of LGBTQ Ukrainians is partly dependent on the U.S.

Because Russian officials were using LGBTQ people as a symbol of everything “immoral” and “Western,” they used LGBTQ people in their war propaganda both against the U.S. and against Ukraine. For example, the leader of the state-supported Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, stated in 2022 that the war in Ukraine happened because “people in Donetsk do not want Gay Prides” as a justification for the war, and that the gay Prides are the ultimate test that the Americans and the West are using to find out whether Ukrainians are ready to abandon “Russian traditional values.”

But when I asked a transgender person, L., who was living in Donetsk between 2014 and 2022, they explained that they do not face transphobic challenges that many queer people face in Russia, and the younger generation in Donetsk was pretty much LGBTQ friendly. Even Russian puppet forces didn’t care much about LGBTQ people back in those days.

A majority 58% of Ukrainians hold neutral or positive attributes toward their LGBTQ citizens, according to recent polling.

The LGBTQ phobia wasn’t something that the Donetsk people were willing to protect with their lives; it was something that Russians used in their propaganda war to justify the invasion and killing of Ukrainian civilians, including children.

For a long time, Russia labelled LGBTQ organizations as “Western agents” and used anti-American rhetoric in their homophobic propaganda.

But there was actual help that the Ukrainian LGBTQ community received from the U.S., not because of some kind of conspiracy, but because of humanitarian reasons, because Russian state propaganda and the Soviet anti-LGBTQ legacy made it hard for LGBTQ Ukrainians to find financial support for community activism.

On the anniversary of the war, I spoke with Igor, a Ukrainian lawyer born in Donetsk, political analyst, and expert on the American-Ukrainian relationship, currently based in Vienna, about how MAGA and the current American political situation influence LGBTQ people in war-torn Ukraine.

“U.S. support, particularly through USAID and other grant programs, has been essential to sustaining services for LGBTQ individuals in Ukraine” Ihor explained. “Without it, many of these services—like specialized shelters, emergency housing, HIV counseling, and psychological support—would disappear. For instance, shelters in cities like Dnipro and Chernivtsi that offer safe places for LGBTQ people escaping war zones exist largely thanks to international donor funding.

USAID has backed public outreach and education initiatives aimed at fostering open dialogue on LGBTQ issues, which in turn helps combat anti-LGBTQ propaganda. If USAID’s programs were dismantled, we would see an immediate and severe impact: safe spaces could close, mental health support could end, and marginalized groups would be left even more vulnerable. Essentially, the destruction of this aid framework would roll back critical progress and expose the LGBTQ community to greater risks with fewer avenues for help.

To compensate for these losses, pro-LGBTQ NGOs would need to seek alternative funding sources from private donors—such as the Open Society Foundations—or EUbased donors. However, it remains uncertain whether those sources can fully replace the scale and consistency of current USAID-backed programs. Essentially, the destruction of this aid framework would roll back critical progress and expose the LGBTQ community to greater risks with fewer avenues for help.”

At the same time, LGBTQ people in Ukraine are now facing much more grave danger

because of current American politics.

President Donald Trump told reporters that it is unlikely that Ukraine would return to its pre-2014 borders, hinting that Ukraine needs to sacrifice the Crimea and Donbas regions—including my hometown, Donetsk. This plan was also promoted by the American delegation at the Munich Security Conference on Feb. 14-16.

Meanwhile, situations with LGBTQ rights in Donetsk worsened. For example, my attempt to find open LGBTQ people in Russian-controlled Donetsk for one of my articles ended with a comment from my bisexual nonbinary friend Roman, who told me that LGBTQ people in Donetsk are now avoiding getting in contact with outsiders because they are scared of “fake dates,” when thugs or occupational security forces pretend to be LGBTQ-friendly journalists, physiologists, or potential partners to lure a queer person into a trap. LGBTQ people in Donetsk couldn’t speak openly about their sexual orientation and gender identity.

“In occupied areas like Kherson and Crimea, Russian authorities have specifically targeted LGBTQ+ individuals,” explained Ihor, and a Trump deal could make everything even worse, making it permanent. “The MAGA approach to Russia-Ukraine relations under Trump poses significant risks to Ukraine’s LGBTQ community. If MAGA policies lead to territorial concessions or normalization of Russian control over parts of Ukraine, LGBTQ individuals in those areas would face severe repression under Russian law. Russia’s “gay propaganda” laws criminalize public expressions of LGBTQ identity and advocacy. In previously occupied regions like Crimea and Donbas, there have been documented cases of violence, arrests, and forced disappearances targeting LGBTQ individuals under Russian rule”

Indeed, it’s true. For example, the Russian-occupied Chechnya, an official Russian administration government ruled by Ramzan Kadyrov, is hunting LGBTQ people as part of a mass-terror campaign.

Chechnya has always been a quite conservative region compared to Western Europe; sexuality and gender identity wasn’t something that was widely discussed in independent Chechnya after the Soviet Union collapsed, before Russia attacked the self-proclaimed Chechen Republic of Ichkeria in 1994. It was a private and family matter, but after 400 years of Chechen anti-colonial fighting, Russians decided to break resistance by destroying the whole idea of a private life. Only after Russia got Chechnya under its control, a mass-terror campaign against LGBTQ people began, and sometimes even non-LGBTQ people were framed as “gay,” tortured, and killed.

The Russian administration in Chechnya was actively hunting dissidents and even their relatives, or just accidental young men who could be framed as terrorist supporters, separatists or spies for better “crime detection” statistics or to be sent to the war in Ukraine as a “Russian” cannon fodder.

The same could happen not just with LGBTQ Ukrainians, but with any open-minded and independently thinking Ukrainians in Donbas and Crimea if Ukraine is forced by the United States to sacrifice territories.

It is possible that it’s up to Americans now to stop their government and to help Ukrainian LGBTQ people save themselves from persecution and extermination.

Upwards of 60 people took part in the annual Kharkiv Pride march in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on Sept. 15, 2024. (Photo courtesy of Kharkiv Pride)

JAKE STEWART

is a D.C.-based writer and barback.

Veritable abductions of mankind

Ex-boyfriend vanished as if UFO snatched him away

( Editor’s note: This is the first of a two-part column. The next installment will be published in March.)

Lately, I’ve been thinking about aliens.

Perhaps not aliens per se, but rather UFOs. In the last few years, Congressional hearings have confi rmed the existence of what used to be science fi ction—that for decades at least, our government has not only encountered UFOs but even recovered non-human biologics from UFO crash sites.

This is fact, by the way. Look it up yourself.

Still, my focus isn’t on the actual UFOs. Instead, I’m focused on the witnesses who claimed to have encountered them. These people were often written off as crazy—if they shared their truth at all, that is. Many kept their own encounters secret out of a founded fear of how others would perceive them. Some, we have come to learn, were coerced into silence at the command of our government.

Have you seen any footage of witnesses interviewed today? Some are grown men who break down sobbing over the trauma. However, this trauma wasn’t because they encountered a UFO; the trauma was a result of the coverup. That is the fault of neither the witness nor the UFO, but rather those who dedicated precious time and resources to hiding the truth, alongside the society who judged them harshly for it.

And to what end? The government appears just as confused about what’s happening as they did 50 years ago. I’d argue we would be closer to the truth today had the truth been told all along.

Now that I’ve shared why aliens are on my mind, let’s dive into why. Alongside my next piece, I will tell a series of connected stories that are so eyebrow raising that people may attempt to write me off as crazy, just like the UFO witnesses.

In October 2021, an interesting event occurred at the doorstep of my apartment. Half an hour earlier, a 24-year-old man I had dated briefl y over the summer emailed me to ask if he could come over. When he arrived, I was immediately concerned. He appeared thin and deeply confused, carrying a shoebox of crumpled paper with writing on both the paper and the shoebox itself. While he couldn’t articulate what had happened, he made two clear requests: He did not want to return to his Navy

Yard apartment, and he did not want to see his family.

Initially I had pulled back dating him after initial signs of instability. For example, he apparently had an ex-boyfriend living with him in an expensive studio apartment, which I did not know until said ex-boyfriend walked in on us having sex. The ex-boyfriend exploded in anger. I, meanwhile, threw on my clothes and sped out of there.

Months later, this 24-year-old appeared terrifi ed of both his ex-boyfriend and his family. So, under the guidance of my therapist, I let him stay with me while I connected him to a psychiatrist. Meanwhile, I made his family and his ex-boyfriend aware of the situation to cover my bases.

Over time, his mental health improved vastly, and I was happy to see him get healthier. Unfortunately, this was not enough for his ex or his family.

A few weeks in, his mother fl ew into D.C. and, alongside his ex, stormed to my apartment. At my door they knocked incessantly, demanding I turn him over. However, he reiterated his desire for them to go away. Since I was not about to hand him over against his will, I made the next logical choice: I called the police.

When the police arrived, it did not take them long to see the mother and ex-boyfriend were out of line, especially after this young man stated he did not feel safe with either. I was nice enough to allow the mother inside my apartment (perhaps too nice) to permit communication between them from a safe distance. Naturally, she said a few nasty things to me on the way out. Fortunately, the incident is documented and available for public record.

My mind circled on what compelled people to behave like that. Why were they bent on taking him away? Why was he so defi ant? Something was off, but the best I could do was support him in his decisions.

Not long after this incident, my boss notifi ed me of a letter sent to every member of our board. The document’s letterhead said Stop Domestic Violence, was signed “Group of Anonymous Six People,” and contained a contact email of EndingStewartsDomesticAbuse@gmail.com. The letter claimed “Jacob (Jake) Stewart abuses his signifi cant others and takes advantage of the mentally ill. He is a threat to others and the greatest danger to those who are vulnerable.” It went on to claim that I was holding my friend hostage, and I should therefore be fi red.

Due to the allegation, my work had to understandably carry out an investigation. With a police report on my side, I knew I had nothing to be afraid of. Additionally, my friend’s progress in this time was my assurance—until Thanksgiving, anyway.

Back then I spent every Thanksgiving in New Mexico, and while I felt guilty for leaving my friend in D.C., I also felt uncomfortable bringing him to my family’s dinner. This was primarily because I didn’t want him or anyone else to have the impression that he was my boyfriend. Morally, I felt he must be independent and healthy before a decision like that should be taken seriously.

My next best alternative was to have him arrive later that evening, when I typically invited other friends for fun and games. But something odd happened: He missed his fl ight. After purchasing a new ticket, I arrived at the airport to fi nd him in yet another manic state.

It was a stark turnaround to how I had left him. What happened in those two days? Honestly, I may never know.

After returning to D.C., his father—a high profi le man himself—swooped in to take him away. My friend seemed okay with that, so I supported his decision. Oddly, the task of writing his resignation letter for his job fell on me. At the time he worked for a US senator—one of his father’s connections, no less—making it all the more odd that I had to draft it.

Meanwhile, my friend was promptly moved back to his hometown of Kansas City. I visited him once. He visited me once. Then one day he told me they were moving him to Dallas.

I haven’t seen or heard from him since. It’s been nearly three years. He vanished as if a UFO picked him up and snatched him away.

This alone is quite a story, but the mystery doesn’t end here. So, this 2-part adventure will be unveiled soon. It may reveal a conspiracy as big as our encounters with UFOs. But don’t worry, this will not be a story about alien abductions. It will, however, be a documented series about veritable abductions of mankind.

PETER ROSENSTEIN

is a longtime LGBTQ rights and Democratic Party activist. He writes regularly for the Blade.

Democrats: Give your time, and importantly, as much money as you can afford Withholding financial support is exactly what Trump, Musk want

This is the time for those of us fighting the destruction of our country by the felon people elected as president, and his Nazi sympathizing best friend, to stand up and be counted. To speak out, protest, and then give all we can afford to Democratic candidates who can help take back our country. I was amazed, though I shouldn’t have been, reading in the New York Times that Democratic billionaires are withholding their money, some afraid of Trump’s retaliation. The Times wrote “Aides to Reid Hoffman, the billionaire LinkedIn co-founder and one of the biggest Democratic donors, have signaled that he is now much more reluctant to fund progressive political projects. A spokeswoman for Mr. Hoffman said ‘he thinks that the Democratic Party strategy needs to reform, and when it does, he’s happy to hear new ideas and new pitches.’ Mr. Hoffman has also voiced publicly what many large donors have said privately: He expects retaliation from Mr. Trump.” This fear of action is what happened in Nazi Germany! I urge Hoffman to not be afraid, but to stand strong. Give to the groups you care about, and directly to individual Democratic candidates around the country. That has to be the pitch. Withholding financial support is just what Musk and Trump want you to do. Total capitulation! Today we are seeing President Felon, who avoided serving in the military, firing veterans from their government jobs. It is reported his co-president Musk fired over 1,000 from the Veterans Administration. Now he will be going after those in the Department of Defense. Men and women who served our country as patriots, willing to give their lives for our freedom. They are now being tossed out like garbage by this president, and his Nazi sympathizing friend, who admits he left South Africa to avoid serving in their army. They are disgracing our nation.

Now, counter to what is being said, Democrats are doing something, but we must recognize the limited power they have, as the minority in Congress. There are many groups filing lawsuits, many speaking out, organizing protests. Members of Congress are trying to slow down MAGA Republicans, and some taking to the streets to protest. Rather than focus on what you think Democrats aren’t doing, focus on making sure people understand clearly what this administration is doing. They are abandoning our allies, and joining with Russia and Putin. Cozying up to a dictator. Trump has said Ukraine started the war, when we all know that is a lie. He called Zelenskyy a dictator, when we know he was elected. I continue to wonder what Putin has on him, and is threatening him with.

Democrats are debating what our national policy should be. How we should talk to people. My view is over the next year we must instead focus on Virginia and New Jersey. We must win in those states. To do so we need to support those candidates who deal with the issues that will get voters out to vote for the Democrats running. In Virginia candidate are saying it’s the economy, it’s mass federal firings, veterans care, healthcare, education. We need to follow their lead and finance those candidates on the ballot, to win. The same goes for New Jersey. It is not necessarily about a national focus; it is about a local focus. Once we win those states, and I believe if we fund them well, we will; in 2026 we then focus on the House of Representatives. Remember, we cut the Republican majority there even when Trump won. We will win if the focus is on candidates, district-by-district, and ensure the funding is there for those candidates to win.

So, to all who think now is the time to abandon the Democratic Party, and withhold your money, you are dead wrong. Instead, stand strong, make your views known within the party, and open your wallets to the candidates who can win. They may not share your every view, but remember they will vote for Democratic leadership in state legislatures and in the House of Representatives. That is how we retake the agenda.

Like it or not, most voters are moderates. Their focus is on paying their rent, heating, and air-conditioning bills, buying food for their families, and gas for their cars. They care about those who served in our military, and risked their lives for us. They care about freedom, and we need to be where they are. If you walk away now, if you let the felon in the White House, and his Nazi sympathizing friend intimidate you, we lose. Don’t give up, fight back. We can overcome!

‘American

David Archuleta celebrates his ‘Freedom’

Idol’ alum channeling George Michael with latest single

By ALEXANDER RODRIGUEZ

Even the rain couldn’t keep the crowds away as “American Idol” alum David Archuleta took the stage at The Abbey in West Hollywood, celebrating the release of his latest single “Freedom” — an homage to George Michael’s iconic anthem. “Freedom” comes on the heels of the 35th anniversary of the original song and it couldn’t be more timely as the LGBTQ community continues to face political persecution. The song celebrates Archuleta’s newfound freedom after coming out and dealing with a complicated relationship with his Mormon upbringing, while exploring his sexuality.

Archuleta happens to have been born the year Michael released “Freedom.” His music served as an inspiration in Archuleta’s coming out. Michael’s music took on new meaning for Archuleta, celebrating a freedom that he craved for himself growing up. Being able to pay homage to Michael is a testament to the personal growth Archuleta experienced since coming out in an Instagram post in 2021.

“I’m finally free from worrying about what is right. Does that look okay? Am I within the lines I’m supposed to? None of that really matters. Of course, we want to still be good, but the things I thought I needed to do, or the way I had to behave or act or say or think to be good, I now realize was a construct that someone else had. They were very black and white and the community that I was in created this safe little space that worked to an extent for certain people,” said Archuleta in an interview with the Los Angeles Blade.

“Now I realize that they didn’t have all the answers that they told me and convinced me that they had. Sexuality, especially when it comes to queerness, is not what they thought it was. I can go ahead and live my own life now and it’s okay to explore that sexuality and sensuality. I’m an adult. It’s the freedom to explore yourself and also create a new identity in yourself after trying to live someone else’s idea of what you’re supposed to be your whole life up until your 30s.”

Archuleta’s vocals are soulful and mature here. He pays homage to the original, but also makes it his own.

“I thought it was a great message to tap into. It is an iconic song with an iconic video and quite the story that he had. He was a pop star, a heartthrob, and didn’t choose to come out. He got outed and he just owned it. There could have been a lot of other ways to go about that and I feel like the way he did it was so powerful and made him even more legendary because he really tapped into his sensuality and continued to consistently be one of the greatest pop stars in the world,” said Archuleta.

to families and to religion. When a lot in the queer community are religious. They are actively participating and fully believing and are a part of families. They have children of their own. It’s just strange that politics click baits and instills fear to not take responsibility for the real issues that are actually impacting people. We were making great progress. It was so much easier for me to come out when I did versus when George Michael came out and now it’s back to a place where the fearmongering is getting people, especially the trans community.”

“I tried to stay pretty true to his version. At first, we actually made a dance version of it but decided to backtrack from it and say, you know what? This is George’s legacy and it’d probably just be better to just stay true to his energy that he put into it. And also stay more true to my energy. I decided to stay true to an MTV unplugged version that he did with a choir. I have gospel roots. I still love gospel music even though I don’t believe in it and what it’s saying and the messaging like I did before,” he reflected.

“It used to be everything for me, the performance in the emotion and the way you connect in your core to singing. I thought it was a beautiful way to combine my two passions of moving forward and being free, but also loving the soul in music. I felt like there was some great soul energy in there. I was able to get really gritty, even get a lot of growling, something I haven’t done for quite a while, I feel like in my music,” he said.

“Freedom” comes at a time when everyday LGBTQ rights are being called into question. The timing is not lost on Archuleta.

“I think it’s unfortunate that the LGBTQ+ community always has to be targeted because of being a smaller group. Living our lives does not really enter fear with anyone else. But because fear-mongering works in the news, it works in politics, it works in rallying people behind someone to feel like they have to fight this cause. They are blaming the community for issues and fear-mongering and feeling like the queer community’s a threat

Archuleta’s personal journey continues to evolve. He has certainly thrown off the shackles of being branded as the innocent Mormon kind on American Idol.

“I don’t really know what my brand is anymore. I think as I release “Freedom,” it’s kind of like a rebranding. I’m still me, but I’m still also evolving. I feel like I’ve changed so much in the last two years. I’m having a fun time. I keep trying to push my boundaries and say yes to things that I wouldn’t have before. Even to the point where I’m writing songs and writers will be like, “David Archuleta can’t say that!” I’m like, well, I just did and I’m David Archuleta. But people sometimes feel weird and I guess it’s because I’ve always been squeaky clean. I’m not a Mormon anymore. I’m out and I don’t really have this religious ideology that I have to abide by. I am David, but I don’t have the same limits on me that I had before.”

Archuleta has more new music on the way and this summer, he will release his memoir. Writing his book was bittersweet, revisiting his past came with a few bumps along the way.

“I feel like it was traumatic. I had to take breaks. It’s like opening Pandora’s box going into your childhood because I feel like sometimes I’m too honest. You see some of the faulty programming that you still have wired in you and you kind of question like, why am I still abiding by that? If it happened so long ago, why am I still letting it affect me? Why is it still part of my belief? I’ve had to work through a lot and it’s been a more difficult process than I thought it would,” he said.

“I thought it’d be hard to write because I didn’t know what I was going to talk about. But that wasn’t the hard part. What’s hard is processing the emotions, the anger, the grief, the anxiety, the traumatic responses you have. But it’s been good. I’ve definitely processed a lot of my religious things. I’ve processed a lot of my internalized homophobia and just sexuality in general. It’s been interesting to reflect on the root of all of those things. And not just ideologies, but just realizing it’s not just a belief, it’s sometimes your genetics that make you the person you are. A lot of good self-reflection for sure,” he continued.

Archuleta’s fanbase continues to thrive along with each evolution the singer has gone through. He is grateful for his fans and his mission to remain true to himself is also for his fans. There is sincerity and truth at the heart of his music.

“To my fans, thank you for being here still and for enjoying what I’m doing, for cheering me on as I grow, as I fumble. I didn’t think fumbling and making mistakes was okay to do. I thought that for some reason if you make mistakes, you’re supposed to be unforgivable. And to see how forgiving of a following I have to let me learn and to experiment and to explore. That’s why I relate to George Michael’s “Freedom” because he had to explore in front of people. And of course, you want to keep parts of your life private, that’s what I prefer. But sometimes things just end up being people’s knowledge that you don’t even know, like processing religion and coming out, sexuality and dating and getting to know people and even learning how to be physical with someone,” he said.

“I’m going to continue trying to figure myself out. But for people to be excited and for me to finally have this part of time of my life is great. I just hope we continue having fun, unleashing more, and freely being ourselves and giving us the grace to figure that out even if it takes some time,” he concluded.

DAVID ARCHULETA’s ‘Freedom’ is now streaming on all major music platforms. (Irvin Rivera)

CALENDAR |

By TINASHE CHINGARANDE

Friday, February 28

“Center Aging Friday Tea Time” will be at 2 p.m. on Zoom. This is a social hour for older LGBTQ+ adults. Guests are encouraged to bring a beverage of choice. For more details, email adam@thedccenter.org.

Trans Discussion Group will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This group is intended to provide an emotionally and physically safe space for trans* people and those who may be questioning their gender identity/expression to join together in community and learn from one another. For more details, email info@thedccenter.org.

Women in Their Twenties and Thirties will meet at 8 p.m. on Zoom. This is a social discussion group for queer women in the Washington, D.C. area. For more details, join WiTT’s closed Facebook group.

GoGayDC will host “LGBTQ+ Community Happy Hour” at 7 p.m. at the Green Lantern. This event is ideal for making new friends, professional networking, idea-sharing, and community building. This event is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

Saturday, March 01

GoGay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Community Brunch” at 11 a.m. at Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant. This fun weekly event brings the DMV area LGBTQ+ community, including allies, together for delicious food and conversation. Attendance is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

LGBTQ People of Color Support Group will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This is an outlet for LGBTQ People of Color to come together and talk about anything affecting them in a space the strives to be safe and judgement free. For more details, visit thedccenter.org/poc or facebook.com/centerpoc.

Sunday, March 02

“DMV Queer Dance Meetup” will be at 4 p.m. at Ferocity Dance Company. Come practice, socialize, and enjoy refreshments! Meet and dance with other queer dancers. Attendance is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

“The Chateau Drag Brunch” will be at 12 p.m. at Chicatana. This event will be hosted by Charlemagne Chateau and guests can enjoy fabulous Mexican food and cocktails while being entertained by a rotating cast of the DMV’s best drag performers. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.

Monday,

March 03

“Center Aging Monday Coffee & Conversation” will be at 10 a.m. on Zoom. This is a social hour for older LGBTQ adults. Guests are encouraged to bring a beverage of choice. For more details, email adam@thedccenter.org.

Center Aging Advocacy Meeting will be at 3:30 p.m. on Zoom. The purpose of these meetings is two-fold. First, participants are welcome to provide guidance and feedback on programs and services for LGBT older adults here at the DC Center. Second, this group will focus on advocating for LGBT older adults in the District of Columbia. For more details, email adam@thedccenter. org.

Tuesday, March 04

Universal Pride Meeting will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This group seeks to support, educate, empower, and create change for people with disabilities. For more details, email andyarias09@gmail.com.

Wednesday, March 05

Job Club will be at 6 p.m. on Zoom. This is a weekly job support program to help job entrants and seekers, including the long-term unemployed, improve self-confidence, motivation, resilience and productivity for effective job searches and networking—allowing participants to move away from being merely “applicants” toward being “candidates.” For more information, email centercareers@thedccenter.org or visit www.thedccenter.org/ careers.

Center Aging Women’s Social and Discussion Group will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This group is a place where older LGBTQ+ women can meet and socialize with one another. We will have discussion, activities, and a chance for you to share what you want future events to include. For more details, visit the DC Center’s website.

Thursday, March 06

The DC Center’s Fresh Produce Program will be held all day at the DC Center for the LGBT Community. To be more fair with who is receiving boxes, the program is moving to a lottery system. People will be informed on Wednesday at 5 p.m. if they are picked to receive a produce box. No proof of residency or income is required. For more information, email supportdesk@thedccenter. org or call 202-682-2245.

Virtual Yoga with Charles M. will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This is a free weekly class focusing on yoga, breathwork, and meditation. For more details, visit the DC Center for the LGBT Community’s website.

OUT & ABOUT

Celebrate Black Pride and a good cause

Center for Black Equity will host “DC Black Pride Cocktails for a Cause” on Friday, Feb. 28 at 6 p.m. at Thurst Lounge.

This event supports DC Black Pride 2025, which is a Marquee Partner event of World Pride in Washington, DC. Your presence and contributions help us create an unforgettable celebration of Black LGBTQ+ liberation, visibility, and joy.

There will be signature cocktails, live DJs, “Black & Bold” vibes, raffles and giveaways and networking and community.

Attendance is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

‘Kunene and the King’ makes US premiere in D.C.

Play

takes place in post-apartheid

By PATRICK FOLLIARD

South Africa

Yes, it’s an apartment redolent with nostalgia and gin, but beyond the clutter and disorder, there’s evidence supporting the existence of a celebrated career that hasn’t entirely ended.

Set in contemporary South Africa, famed artist/activist John Kani’s two-hander “Kunene and the King” (now making its U.S. premiere at Shakespeare Theatre Company), has a lot to say in a little over 90 minutes.

The play’s characters are vestiges of their country’s past, and in 2019, 25 years after the end of apartheid, they express reaction to change in markedly different ways.

Jack Morris is an esteemed white Shakespearean actor (played by STC stalwart Edward Gero) who’s focus is drink and work. After being offered and accepting the title role in “King Lear,” a longtime goal, he is diagnosed with terminal liver cancer.

Undeterred, the irritable actor quits the hospital for home (a flat in an affluent Johannesburg suburb) where he can learn Lear and imbibe undisturbed. Increasingly unwell, he’s compelled to employ Lunga Kunene, a black South African nurse (Kani) to provide live-in care.

From the start, it’s clear this isn’t going to be an easy relationship. Jack suggests Lunga sleep outside of the apartment in the cleaners’ quarters, and casually shoots off offensive terms like “you people” and “helper” rather than nurse, a title that’s a point of pride for Lunga.

Kani’s dramedy unfolds a little clunkily before hitting a smooth stride. And while the men possess very different temperaments, they make disparate yet wellmatched adversaries and occasional friends.

Costume designer Karen Perry has thoughtfully outfitted both men for the ride.

Lunga first appears in teal-colored scrubs with red epaulets covered in badges signifying a long and accomplished career in care, while Jack wears a lordly, velvet dressing gown that might have been culled from an old costume shop, but conveys a shabby grandeur nonetheless.

When Lunga spies a framed show poster featuring a dashing younger Jack as Richard II, he’s impressed. It’s here where the two men experience a bit of bonding over their mutual admiration for the Bard. Lunga’s exposure has been minimal—in the segregated education system of his youth, the Shakespeare reading list was limited to “Julius Caesar,” an historical tragedy that can be interpreted as a warning against the dangers of rebellion.

At one point, Jack recites a famous bit from the play (“friends, Romans, countrymen”) in English, and Lunga repeats the monologue in his native Bantu language.

After learning that Jack aims to take on Lear, Lunga tackles the tragedy. Reading “King Lear” over several weeks serves as an entry into aspects of Jack’s life. They have never been closer.

Other times, the employer and employee revert to old habits. They’re often at odds with Jack unwarrantedly threatening to fire Lunga over mostly imagined infractions and affronts.

Director Ruben Santiago-Hudson brings out both the work’s comedy and the drama.

As Jack, Gero is mostly buoyed along by an enduring ambition and gulps of alcohol. There is humor along with harshness and the glaring indignities of ravaging illness. Kani’s Lunga is fully aware of the gravity required by his profession, but he can’t seem to resist lapsing into jokes and easy smiles. It’s a keen and interesting portrayal of a character who’s seen a lot.

There have been disappointments. Lunga was on his way to becoming a doctor when the apartheid government put a stop to those plans; he became a nurse instead.

Just when Lunga takes a day off from work to check on his tidy little home in Soweto, a predominantly black township, Jack shows up unexpectedly. And he’s more than tipsy—yes, he’s still drinking. Ostensibly he’s come to have his nurse snap a promotional photo for “King Lear.” Despite circumstances, Jack yearns for a final

triumph– he’s hellbent on playing the old king before his ghost light goes out.

The scene is partly funny, but it’s here that aspects of the lack of parity in the men’s relationship goes on full display.

STC’s production incorporates exciting scene transitions with statuesque singer Ntebo, garbed in a vivid gown and headwrap, musically conjuring the spirit of Africa.

While Lunga is able to embrace tradition, the ancestors, and modern medicine, Jack regards deference to that kind of cultural custom as so much hokum, beneath the dignity of an educated nurse.

Their worlds are different. While Jack’s ethnocentricity may prevent him from tangible change, there’s a lot here for the rest of us to consider.

“Kunene and the King”

Through March 23

Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Klein Theatre | 450 7th St., N.W. Tickets start at $35 | Shakespearetheatrecompany.org

EDWARD GERO and JOHN KANI in ‘Kunene and the King’ at Shakespeare Theatre Company (Photo courtesy of Teresa Castracane Photography)

“You know that saying, ‘if you’re lucky enough to have a place at the beach, you’re lucky enough.’? We feel that way every time we pull into the driveway of our Governors townhome.

Living at Governors is worry free, with every amenity we could ever dream of at our doorstep - and most important, the bike and walking paths that lead to Lewes and Rehoboth Beach. While so much comes to mind when we think of what we love about this home, the 2-story windows, its bright, modern design, and the relaxing screened porch, where we enjoy morning sun and afternoon shade stand out.

It’s an excellent setting for living at the beach!"

Jane Fonda takes a stand at SAG Awards

Hollywood icon urged peers to resist once more

By JOHN PAUL KING

If there was any clear takeaway to be had from last Sunday’s 31st Annual Screen Actors’ Guild Awards, it’s that the trophies are very heavy.

After the evening’s first winner — Kieran Culkin, as Best Supporting Motion Picture Performance by a Male Actor for “A Real Pain” — used most of his acceptance speech for an off-the-cuff comedic riff about the weight of the statuette he had just been handed, the topic became a theme, a seemingly impromptu running gag exemplifying the overall high spirits that marked the affair.

A palpable camaraderie among peers has always been a hallmark of the SAGs, and this year was not an exception — despite the ongoing aftermath of LA’s recent devastating wildfires, which personally impacted many of the individuals that were present, the overall tone of the event was more celebratory than somber.

Yet there was also another elephant in the room. While there was clear hesitation to directly address the cloud cast over the famously (though not exclusively) liberal entertainment community by the advent of the new Trump regime, host Kristen Bell kept things light during her “Frozen”-inspired opening sequence and other scripted “bits” throughout, conspicuously avoiding overtly political material. Most of the presenters and winners, occasional remarks about the importance of empathy aside, seemed to be playing it safe.

At least, they did until it was time for Jane Fonda to take the stage. The legendary star, receiving SAG’s prestigious Life Achievement Award, delivered a lengthy and impassioned speech that began as she tied her professional career directly to the political activism for which she is perhaps equally famous. Then, the 88-year-old screen icon — perhaps best known to the youngest generations among us for her long-running role opposite longtime friend (and “9 to 5” co-star) Lily Tomlin in “Grace and Frankie” — segued into a fiery call for her industry peers to resist once more; citing the need to stay “in community” and crystalizing remarks by earlier speakers about empathy into an impassioned description of an actor’s ability to promote understanding of other people’s experience through their work, she stressed the importance of bridging divisions because “a whole lot of people are going to be really hurt by what is happening, what is coming our

way,” and encouraged welcoming those with political differences “into our tent, because we are going to need a really big tent to resist what’s coming at us.”

Recalling that her career began in the wake of the 1950’s “Red Scare,” when she observed first-hand the resistance with which many of Hollywood’s “biggest names” stood up against Sen. Joseph McCarthy’s congressional hearings during his infamous anti-Communist “witch hunt,” and implored her fellow actors to do the same. “This is it, and it’s not a rehearsal,” she said. “This is bigtime serious, folks, so let’s be brave.”

The crowning moment of her speech, however, was her characteristically blunt and fiercely intelligent observation that “empathy is not ‘weak’ or ‘woke’ — and by the way, ‘woke’ just means you give a damn about other people.”

Despite her clearly focused messaging, Fonda never referenced Donald Trump by name — but she did deliver a particularly cutting swipe when, in providing an example or the need for actors to understand and empathize with the “traumatized characters” they play even when they “hate the behavior” they have to portray, she cited Sebastian Stan’s performance in “The Apprentice,” in which the actor delivers a critically-lauded portrayal of the currently-sitting president in his younger years, during his mentorship with infamously amoral closeted homosexual Roy Cohn.

As for the winners in the year’s competitive categories, there was a mix between the predictable and the unexpected.

“Shōgun,” FX’s acclaimed adaptation of the 1975 James Clavell historical epic novel about power struggles in 17th century feudal Japan, dominated SAG’s Television Drama categories much along the same lines as it did at last fall’s Primetime Emmy Awards, winning in both the Lead Actor categories (Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai, Best Male and Female performance, respectively) as well as taking Best Ensemble Cast, SAG’s equivalent of the Best Drama Series award. The show, which has been renewed for a second and third season, also received the Best Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a TV Series.

Culkin’s aforementioned win as Supporting Male Actor in a Motion Picture was the latest in a long list of victories, cementing his likelihood of winning the same category in the upcoming Oscar race; likewise, Zoe Saldaña’s victory in the Supporting Female Actor category for the controversy-plagued “Emilia Pérez” makes her win at the Academy seem all but inevitable.

Jessica Gunning was named Best Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for the Netflix hit stalker drama “Baby Reindeer,” and Jean Smart racked up yet another win as Lead Female Actor in a Comedy Series for “Hacks.”

Somewhat less predictable was Demi Moore’s win as Best Leading Film Performance by a Female Actor for “The Substance,” which places the veteran screen star — once considered a “dark horse” in this year’s awards race — as a favorite to repeat her growing list of victories on Oscar night. Colin Farrell’s chameleonic turn as the title character in “The Penguin” earned the Irish performer the award for Best Lead Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series,

Reasserting its growing acclaim by taking the prize for Best Ensemble in Motion Picture – the equivalent of

Oscar’s Best Picture award — was the UK-produced “Conclave,” following its BAFTA win in the same category and making it a firm front-runner to clinch Academy honors as well.

A pair of refreshingly unexpected victories were claimed by Hulu’s popular “Only Murders in the Building,” whose fourth season picked up wins for both Ensemble in a Television Comedy and Lead Male TV Comedy Performance for co-star Martin Short; but perhaps the evening’s biggest surprise was Timothée Chalamet’s win as Best Lead Performance by a Male Actor in a Motion Picture for playing Bob Dylan in the biopic “A Complete Unknown,” which sparked a rare moment when all of the young star’s competing nominees — including widely-assumed favorites Adrien Brody and Colman Domingo (for “The Brutalist” and “Sing Sing,” respectively) — were seen to react with visible enthusiasm when his name was announced.

In its intriguing mix of the sure bets and long shots in the winners’ circle, the SAG Awards seemed to suggest a new “normal” among Hollywood’s elite players, emphasizing diversity and empathy in its choices over the “buzz” and prestige that typically drive such industry ceremonies. Ultimately, though, the results in the SAG competition feel less noteworthy than the inspiring spirit of resistance bestowed by Fonda’s use of her acceptance speech as a thrillingly defiant call-to-arms against the encroaching fascism of Donald Trump’s return to power. The complete list of winners is below.

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role: Timothée Chalamet in “A Complete Unknown”

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role: Demi Moore in “The Substance”

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin in “A Real Pain”

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldaña in “Emilia Pérez”

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture: “Conclave”

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Colin Farrell in “The Penguin”

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Gunning in “Baby Reindeer”

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series: Hiroyuki Sanada in “Shōgun”

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series: Anna Sawai in “Shōgun”

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Martin Short in “Only Murders in the Building”

Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart in “Hacks”

Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series: “Shōgun”

Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series: “Only Murders In The Building” Life Achievement Award: Jane Fonda

STUNT ENSEMBLE HONORS

Outstanding Action Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture: “The Fall Guy”

Outstanding Action Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Television Series: “Shōgun”

JANE FONDA at the 31st Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Feb. 23, 2025. (Screen capture via Netflix)

‘John Cranko’ tells story of famed LGBTQ ballet choreographer

South African arrived in Germany in 1960

By SUSAN HORNIK

One of the highlights of the Palm Springs Film Festival was Joachim A. Lang’s beautiful German-language film, “John Cranko,” which tells the true story of the famed LGBTQ ballet choreographer.

The film follows the South African-born Cranko, (played by Sam Riley) as he arrives in Stuttgart, Germany, in 1960, to be guest choreographer for the city’s ballet company after a very public scandal: his job at London’s Sadler’s Wells Ballet abruptly ended after he was prosecuted for committing a homosexual act in a public place.

In the relaxed city of Stuttgart, Cranko is able to find refuge from his past and is embraced despite his unique lifestyle. He quickly rises to become the ballet director and a favorite of the audience, dedicating himself fully to his art and a vibrant social life. He engages in affairs, faces personal setbacks and deep crises, runs his office from the theater canteen, and affectionately refers to his company as “his children.”

Lang’s perspective

Cranko was a fascinating enigma to capture on screen, with a complicated, often manic, personality. Loved by his gifted dancers, he was extremely passionate about ballet, and creative in his artistry, yet cantankerous at times, often dealing with depression and a heavy alcohol intake.

Over the years, Lang had “intensive conversations” with companions and friends of Cranko, which greatly helped him with the script.

“I talked with Marcia Haydee, the great ballerina of the 20th century; Birgit Keil, equally famous; costume designer Jürgen Rose; and ballet dancer Vladimir Klos,” Lang told the Los Angeles Blade. “And especially ballet dancer Reid Anderson and administrator of the Stuttgart Ballet and holder of the rights to John Cranko’s ballets, Dieter Gräfe, both of whom lived with John Cranko.”

Many of them were on board when sadly, Cranko died somewhere over the Atlantic between America and Europe on the flight back from a guest performance of his ballet company in New York, in 1973, at the age of 45.

For Lang, the biggest challenge was to realize his goal of making one of the first “real” ballet films.

“A film that is really about this art–the film wants to be more than a biopic, it is an attempt to capture the soul of dance by portraying the life and work of this genius. It is a film about art and reality, it is about us humans, the time we have left and what drives us, it is about the great themes of being human, the longing for love, life and dying. It is a tribute to art and to the people who make it.”

Riley’s portrayal

The film delves into the delicate nature of a lonely, fragile soul searching for love and recognition. It’s no wonder Riley, known for his mesmerizing role in “Control,” where he played Joy Division’s Ian Curtis, as well as “Rebecca” and “Maleficent,” is absolute perfection in the role.

“Sam Riley is one of the best actors,” acknowledged Lang. “I knew right away that only he could do it so well. I sent him the script. We met for an hour in a hotel in Berlin. It was clear then that we belonged together. He was world class. The greatest praise for him was when I showed the film to Cranko’s companions, they said: ‘John is back!’”

With so much archival footage, Riley was able to deeply immerse himself in the character.

“With John, there’s quite a lot of material, the (Stuttgart) Ballet had an archive of stuff, so I got all of his old performances with the original cast. And there was quite a lot of footage of him at work, choreographing and directing. I watched as much as they had. Rather than mimic it, you just try and absorb it somehow.”

Because ‘ballet is such a universal thing,” Riley really hopes the film can do well outside of Germany.

“What I found most inspirational about being in the film was something that

I wasn’t really expecting. I think, like a lot of guys, I had grown up with a sort of unconscious prejudice against ballet. I’d never actually been to see one my whole life, until I went to be a part of this. I just assumed it was something not for me. I like rock and roll music and movies and things.”

But it was in watching the young dancers rehearse that touched Riley’s heart. “Realizing that they’ve been dedicating their lives to this art form since they were little children, the effort that they put into it every day, the work ethic, and that something that still exists today, just a pure dedication to something — that’s beautiful ... They are performing for the love of it. And it moved me every day, really, watching them do it. Every scene, they really throw absolutely everything into it. They were completely exhausted. And it was really inspiring.”

(Courtesy of IMDB)

Queen of Hearts

Dee Dee Dereon wins crown at annual drag pageant

on Friday, Feb.

The 43rd annual Queen of Hearts drag pageant was held at The Lodge in Boonsboro, Md.

21. Six contestants vied for the title of Queen of Hearts 2025, and Dee Dee Dereon won the crown.

(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)

It’s not right, but it’s okay, I’m

gonna spring clean this house anyway!

New season a perfect time to create a serene, inviting home environment

By JOSEPH HUDSON | Metro Referrals

Spring is right around the corner. During this season, spring represents a time for renewal, a fresh start, new beginnings, along with a sense of energy and optimism for the future. One of the best ways to get this feeling going is also inside and around the home. Now that the temps are a bit warmer, and the sun sets a little later, give yourself the gift of a spring refresh. Here are some tips to re-energize, declutter, “move the energy” in the room, and create a serene and inviting home environment. If that alone isn’t reason enough, some people in the area may be deciding to put their homes on the market this year too.

Enhance Curb Appeal: There is never a second chance to make a first impression! Does the yard need tidying up? Does the front door need a fresh new coat of paint? Want to make it pop? Plant some shrubs or put some new flowers in the windowsills? Clean those windows. Tidy up the entryway, buy a new credenza for catching mail, keys, gloves, hats, etc. Mop the floors, get all that road salt off the tiles.

Deep Clean the Kitchen and Bathrooms: These rooms are key selling points. Clean the oven, refrigerator, and stove in the kitchen. In bathrooms, clean grout lines, remove soap scum, and make sure faucets and showerheads are free from water stains.

Neutralize the Space: This is more for those who want to sell their home. It becomes easier for a potential buyer to “see themselves” in a property the less they see YOU in the property. Put some photos away, declutter, take down anything that is very specific to you for any showings or open houses. I used to tell my clients, “Make it look like a Hampton Inn!” (clean, organized, presentable, not exactly shouting political affiliations and humor that may or may not play well to all audiences.) Just think, “NEUTRAL!”

Fix Minor Repairs: Take care of any small repairs such as leaky faucets, broken door handles, or cracked tiles. These little fixes show that the home has been well-maintained. They also help build that “can do” muscle! If you don’t know a handyman/person you can always find how to videos on YouTube.

Reorganize Rooms: Consider rearranging furniture to create an open, welcoming flow. If needed, remove oversized pieces to make rooms feel larger. This can also help the “vibe” in any home. I used show homes to clients that were smaller, but smartly furnished, and they could really feel the difference. An extra 150 square feet in an empty hallway isn’t doing anyone much good, but if you put some nice artwork up, and tone down the size of bulky furniture in the main living areas, it can begin to look like a crisp $100 bill.

Stage the Home: If you’re selling, consider staging the home, either with your own furniture or with rented pieces. Well-placed furniture and decor can highlight your home’s best features.

Freshen Up with Scents: Let’s be honest. Open those windows and air that bit*h out! Find your favorite candle company and invest in a few nice smells. I always wanted a nice candle burning during an open house. It helped the vibe!

Whether you are staying put or planning on making moves, a spring re-fresh, clean up, maintenance moment, or general tidy up/tidy down is going to make YOU feel, in the words of Whitney Houston, “like a million-dollar bill! (OH OH OH OH!).”

Editor’s note: Playing anything by our beloved Whitney Houston is guaranteed to get any person, place, or home out of whatever current funk state it is in! If your house isn’t singing, “You Give Good Love to Me” ... now you know what to do!

JOSEPH HUDSON

is a referral agent with Metro Referrals. He can be reached at (703) 587-0597 or joemike76@gmail.com.

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Harry C. Carter aka Harry Carter Kelly, Name of Decedent

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Bernice G. Kelly , whose address is 4225 Colorado Ave NW, Washington, D.C. 20011 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Harry C. Kelly aka Harry Carter Kelly who died on January 31, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/14/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 8/14/2025 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: February 14, 2025 /s/Bernice G. Kelly, Personal Representative, 202-291-5888 A True Test Copy /s/Nicole Stevens, Register of Wills.

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