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A second high court rules that Japan's ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional
Read full article: A second high court rules that Japan's ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutionalA second high court has ruled that the Japanese government’s policy against same-sex marriage is unconstitutional.
Local business owner reacts Visit Florida removing LGBTQ travel guide
Read full article: Local business owner reacts Visit Florida removing LGBTQ travel guideA local business owner is speaking out against Visit Florida after the state-funded tourism agency removed the LGBTQ+ Travel section from its website.
Things to know about the gender-affirming care case as the Supreme Court prepares to weigh in
Read full article: Things to know about the gender-affirming care case as the Supreme Court prepares to weigh inThe Supreme Court is planning to weigh in on whether states can ban gender-affirming care for transgender minors.
LGBTQ soldiers in Ukraine hope their service is changing attitudes as they rally for legal rights
Read full article: LGBTQ soldiers in Ukraine hope their service is changing attitudes as they rally for legal rightsSeveral hundred LGBTQ Ukrainian servicemen and their supporters have marched in central Kyiv to demand more rights and highlight their service to their country in its war with Russia.
Bill would rename NYC subway stop after Stonewall, a landmark in LGBTQ+ rights movement
Read full article: Bill would rename NYC subway stop after Stonewall, a landmark in LGBTQ+ rights movementLawmakers have approved legislation that would rename a New York City subway station in honor of the Stonewall riots.
River City Plus: PFLAG provides up to $2,000 in unencumbered scholarships
Read full article: River City Plus: PFLAG provides up to $2,000 in unencumbered scholarshipsPFLAG is the nation’s oldest and largest LGBTQ+ support, education, and advocacy group focused on the families and close loved ones of members of the LGBTQ+ community.
United Methodist delegates repeal their church’s ban on its clergy celebrating same-sex marriages
Read full article: United Methodist delegates repeal their church’s ban on its clergy celebrating same-sex marriagesUnited Methodist delegates have repealed their church’s longstanding ban on the celebrations of same-sex marriages or unions by its clergy.
United Methodists remove anti-gay language from their official teachings on societal issues
Read full article: United Methodists remove anti-gay language from their official teachings on societal issuesFor the past 52 years, the United Methodist Church had officially declared “the practice of homosexuality.
UNF diversity office shuts down, closes LGBTQ, Interfaith, Intercultural and Women’s centers
Read full article: UNF diversity office shuts down, closes LGBTQ, Interfaith, Intercultural and Women’s centersThe University of North Florida’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion shut down Wednesday, along with several campus programs, to comply with a new state law.
LGBTQ+ Community Resources in Jacksonville, Florida
Read full article: LGBTQ+ Community Resources in Jacksonville, FloridaLGBT National Help Center offers national support, resources, and information directly. All calls and online services are provided by highly trained LGBTQ volunteers. Calls are never outsourced or answered by other affiliated organizations.
Judge to decide on Florida’s law restricting teachers’ use of personal pronouns
Read full article: Judge to decide on Florida’s law restricting teachers’ use of personal pronounsA federal judge on Friday heard arguments in a court battle over a law restricting educators’ use of personal pronouns and titles in schools, in one of a series of challenges to Florida policies targeting LGBTQ people.
UNF prepares to close several on campus centers linked to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Read full article: UNF prepares to close several on campus centers linked to Diversity, Equity and InclusionThe University of North Florida is set to close several on campus centers – after a decision by the Florida Board of Governors – that ends the use of public money towards Diversity Equity and Inclusion initiatives on campus. This will affect the Women’s Center, the LGBTQ Center, and the Intercultural and Interfaith Center.
Mass arrests target LGBTQ+ people in Nigeria while abuses against them are ignored, activists say
Read full article: Mass arrests target LGBTQ+ people in Nigeria while abuses against them are ignored, activists sayRights groups and lawyers in Nigeria say the West African nation's law enforcement authorities are using the country’s same-sex prohibition law to target the LGBTQ+ community while ignoring abuses against them.
Photos: Thousands celebrate Pride in Jacksonville during 2023 festival & parade
Read full article: Photos: Thousands celebrate Pride in Jacksonville during 2023 festival & paradeThousands of community members, Floridians and out-of-towners came to celebrate love during Jacksonville’s Pride celebration this past weekend in Riverside and 5 Points.
Tennessee can enforce ban on transgender care for minors, court says
Read full article: Tennessee can enforce ban on transgender care for minors, court saysA federal appeals court has temporarily reversed a lower court's ruling that had prohibited Tennessee from enacting a ban on gender-affirming care for transgender youth.
Gatherings combining Pride and Juneteenth give Black LGBTQ+ people a refuge where they can celebrate
Read full article: Gatherings combining Pride and Juneteenth give Black LGBTQ+ people a refuge where they can celebrateFrom a block party in New York City to a movie screening outside of Denver, groups across the U.S. have found ways to merge Pride month and Juneteenth celebrations.
‘We have a lot of momentum’: LGBTQ+ community, supporters come together to protest, vigil
Read full article: ‘We have a lot of momentum’: LGBTQ+ community, supporters come together to protest, vigilTwo events were held Sunday to honor the LGBTQ+ community and protest recent legislation, which eventgoers say is anti-trans.
Bud Light sales dip locally amid backlash to transgender influencer. Employee says local workers are suffering
Read full article: Bud Light sales dip locally amid backlash to transgender influencer. Employee says local workers are sufferingSales of Bud Light products in Jacksonville have plummeted in recent weeks, according to a report from the New York Times, following calls for a boycott by conservative figures after the beer’s partnership with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney.
AG Moody hits back at Florida travel advisories issued by civil rights groups
Read full article: AG Moody hits back at Florida travel advisories issued by civil rights groupsThree separate civil rights groups have issued their own travel warning for tourists visiting Florida citing recently passed legislation that the groups say has created a shadow of fear in Florida.
Group asks Fernandina Beach commissioners to move pride festival, parade away from city park
Read full article: Group asks Fernandina Beach commissioners to move pride festival, parade away from city parkA group in Nassau County is asking Fernandina Beach commissioners to move Fernandina Beach Pride, an LGBTQ+ event scheduled for next month, to another location.
DCPS committee discusses changes to school bathroom rules, facility renaming process
Read full article: DCPS committee discusses changes to school bathroom rules, facility renaming processFollowing revelations about multiple faculty members at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, board members also discussed and reviewed the board’s policies on ethics and those that prohibit any staff fraternization with students.
Florida lawmaker sparks outrage, apologizes after calling transgender people ‘mutants’
Read full article: Florida lawmaker sparks outrage, apologizes after calling transgender people ‘mutants’There was outrage on Tuesday from advocates of the LGBTQ community after a Florida lawmaker compared transgender people to “demons”, “mutants” and “imps.”
Clay County school board to consider controversial bathroom policy
Read full article: Clay County school board to consider controversial bathroom policyClay County school leaders are set to vote on a policy that would ban transgender students from using the bathroom associated with their gender identity.
Uganda LGBTQ leader says gay bill threatens homelessness
Read full article: Uganda LGBTQ leader says gay bill threatens homelessnessA prominent leader of Uganda’s LGBTQ community says he is worried about becoming “homeless,” describing anguished calls by others like him who are concerned for their safety after the passing of a tough new anti-gay law.
Michigan adds LGBTQ protections to anti-discrimination law
Read full article: Michigan adds LGBTQ protections to anti-discrimination lawMichigan Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation Thursday that will permanently outlaw discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity in the state.
Minnesota governor protects rights to gender affirming care
Read full article: Minnesota governor protects rights to gender affirming careGov. Tim Walz has signed an executive order protecting the rights of LGBTQ people from Minnesota and other states to seek and receive gender affirming health care.
Students, faculty, alumni blast Gov. DeSantis’ collection of ‘gender dysphoria services’ info from public universities
Read full article: Students, faculty, alumni blast Gov. DeSantis’ collection of ‘gender dysphoria services’ info from public universitiesGovernor Ron DeSantis, R-Florida, has collected information from the state’s public universities about the number and ages of individuals who have received or even sought gender-affirming care over the past five years.
Pulitzer-winning playwright criticizes Duval County school for canceling student production
Read full article: Pulitzer-winning playwright criticizes Duval County school for canceling student productionA student production of the stage play ‘Indecent’ at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts in Jacksonville was called off by school administrators, citing ‘inappropriate’ dialog.
Israeli doctors reject Netanyahu allies' anti-LGBTQ remarks
Read full article: Israeli doctors reject Netanyahu allies' anti-LGBTQ remarksIsrael’s largest medical center and health care workers from hospitals around the country have spoken out against remarks by allies of Benjamin Netanyahu calling for a law to allow discrimination against LGBTQ people in hospitals and businesses.
NC power grid attack stokes fear in rural LGBTQ community
Read full article: NC power grid attack stokes fear in rural LGBTQ communityNorth Carolina drag performers and LGBTQ community members fear for their safety after an attack on the electrical grid in Moore County left tens of thousands without power for several days.
Group of DCPS educators, parents to call for return of JASMYN partnership following controversy
Read full article: Group of DCPS educators, parents to call for return of JASMYN partnership following controversyAn organization of Duval County Public Schools teachers and staff plan to speak out against the district’s recent decision to cut ties with a local LGBTQ advocacy group, JASMYN.
DCPS ends over 20-year relationship with LGBTQ advocacy group over ‘inappropriate’ materials
Read full article: DCPS ends over 20-year relationship with LGBTQ advocacy group over ‘inappropriate’ materialsDuval County Public Schools ended its decades-long services agreement with JASMYN, an organization that provides resources for the LGBTQ community, citing the perceived use of materials deemed to be inappropriate for children.
Site of Colorado gay bar shooting 'celebrated' LGBTQ people
Read full article: Site of Colorado gay bar shooting 'celebrated' LGBTQ peopleIn the mostly conservative city of Colorado Springs, Club Q has long been a go-to spot for members of the LGBTQ community — a safe space where many felt they could just be themselves.
U.S. Soccer is making a statement with Pride Crest during World Cup in Qatar
Read full article: U.S. Soccer is making a statement with Pride Crest during World Cup in QatarThere are many reasons to criticize FIFA for the way they’ve handled the Men’s World Cup that is about to begin in Qatar, and at the top of that list is that they chose to have it in a nation with egregious human rights violations.
Montenegro holds pride march despite opposition from church
Read full article: Montenegro holds pride march despite opposition from churchSeveral hundred people have joined an LGBTQ pride march in Montenegro that was held amid strong opposition from the influential Serbian Orthodox Church in the small conservative Balkan country.
‘Smashing success’: WJXT & CW17 attend 2022 River City Pride festival
Read full article: ‘Smashing success’: WJXT & CW17 attend 2022 River City Pride festivalThe energy was high and the vibes were great during the beautiful fall day. The community event had it all — entertainers, vendors, speakers and more.
Thousands protest planned Pride gathering in Serbia
Read full article: Thousands protest planned Pride gathering in SerbiaThousands of opponents of a pan-European LGBTQ event planned for this week in Belgrade marched through the Serbian capital on Sunday despite an announced ban of Europe’s largest annual gay gathering.
Rep. Rutherford votes ‘no’ on codifying same-sex, interracial marriage into law, Florida Senator signals opposition
Read full article: Rep. Rutherford votes ‘no’ on codifying same-sex, interracial marriage into law, Florida Senator signals oppositionThe bill passed with a 267-157 margin, receiving 100% support from Democrats and from 47 Republicans.
Acosta Bridge displays rainbow colors recognizing Pride Month
Read full article: Acosta Bridge displays rainbow colors recognizing Pride MonthAfter facing scrutiny for turning off the rainbow lights during Pride Month last year, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority lit up the bridge on Monday night.
Acosta Bridge to display rainbow colors recognizing Pride Month amid state backlash in 2021
Read full article: Acosta Bridge to display rainbow colors recognizing Pride Month amid state backlash in 2021After facing scrutiny for turning off the rainbow lights during pride month last year, Jacksonville Transportation Authority is ensuring residents that the lighting plan is on track for next week.
Duval County School Board reworks LGBTQ+ support guide, may notify parents of name change
Read full article: Duval County School Board reworks LGBTQ+ support guide, may notify parents of name changeA 37-page document, which describes itself as “a critical tool at a critical time,” is now under intense scrutiny within Duval County Public Schools.
Duval School’s ‘LGBTQ Support Guide’ is being reworked amid new state law
Read full article: Duval School’s ‘LGBTQ Support Guide’ is being reworked amid new state lawA 37-page document, which describes itself as “a critical tool at a critical time,” is now under intense scrutiny within Duval County Public Schools.
LGBTQ groups sue Florida over Parental Rights in Education law
Read full article: LGBTQ groups sue Florida over Parental Rights in Education lawGay rights advocates are suing Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to block a new law forbidding classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in kindergarten through third grade.
Student organizer of ‘Don’t Say Gay’ school walk-outs suspended
Read full article: Student organizer of ‘Don’t Say Gay’ school walk-outs suspendedThe student credited with organizing state-wide school demonstrations in protest of the Parental Rights in Education bill, also called the “Don’t Say Gay bill” by critics, was suspended Thursday from Flagler Palm Coast High School, according to multiple sources.
Clay County Schools asks judge to dismiss lawsuit filed by anti-LGBTQ parents’ lawyer
Read full article: Clay County Schools asks judge to dismiss lawsuit filed by anti-LGBTQ parents’ lawyerAttorneys for the Clay County School District responded to a lawsuit brought by the attorney for two parents, who claim a school counselor coached their elementary-aged child in a gender identity transition without their knowledge or approval.
Florida GOP 'Don't Say Gay' bill advances in House
Read full article: Florida GOP 'Don't Say Gay' bill advances in HouseFlorida House Republicans have advanced a bill to forbid discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity in schools, rejecting criticism from Democrats who said the proposal demonizes LGBTQ people.
High court takes case involving refusal to serve gay couples
Read full article: High court takes case involving refusal to serve gay couplesThe Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case of a Colorado web designer who says her religious beliefs prevent her from offering wedding website designs to gay couples.
France bans gay 'conversion therapy' with new law
Read full article: France bans gay 'conversion therapy' with new lawFrance has a new law that bans so-called conversion therapies and authorizes jail time and fines for practitioners who use the scientifically discredited practice to attempt to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of LGBTQ people.
Students, alumni angered after Episcopal School scrubs dance performance featuring same-sex pair
Read full article: Students, alumni angered after Episcopal School scrubs dance performance featuring same-sex pairAdministrators at the Episcopal School of Jacksonville are receiving some backlash from a group of students and alumni after a planned dance performance, featuring a same-sex couple, was removed from an upcoming recital.
Tunisia: LGBT activist's assault by police seen as a pattern
Read full article: Tunisia: LGBT activist's assault by police seen as a patternPolice violence is among the myriad challenges that LGBTQ people experience in Tunisia, and observers say officers who can dispense beatings with impunity are becoming increasingly brazen.
If Roe falls, some fear ripple effect on civil rights cases
Read full article: If Roe falls, some fear ripple effect on civil rights casesIf the Supreme Court decides to overturn or gut the decision that legalized abortion, some fear that it could undermine other precedent-setting cases, including civil rights and LGBTQ protections.
Nease High School teacher’s pride flag removed from classroom by admins; students respond with demonstration
Read full article: Nease High School teacher’s pride flag removed from classroom by admins; students respond with demonstrationA large group of students at St. Johns County’s Allen D. Nease High School gathered in protest on campus before the bell rang Thursday morning.
Sail away with Kesha and a bunch of drag queens on the Kesha Cruise in 2022
Read full article: Sail away with Kesha and a bunch of drag queens on the Kesha Cruise in 2022Just like Kesha said in her hit song “Tik Tok,” well, “the party don’t start till I walk in,” and that goes for her Kesha Cruise that is setting sail in 2022.
California bans state travel to Florida, 4 other states
Read full article: California bans state travel to Florida, 4 other statesCalifornia has added five more states including Florida to the list of places where state-funded travel is banned because of laws that discriminate against members of the LGBTQ community.
Why it’s so important for athletes like Carl Nassib to come out of the closet
Read full article: Why it’s so important for athletes like Carl Nassib to come out of the closetLas Vegas Raiders football player Carl Nassib made history Monday when he became the first active NFL player to come out of the closet.
Federal judge denies injunction over St. Johns County Pride proclamation
Read full article: Federal judge denies injunction over St. Johns County Pride proclamationA federal judge on Tuesday denied a request to force the St. Johns County Commission to consider a county-wide Pride proclamation, but the attorney who brought the LGBTQ+ community feels they will ultimately prevail.
Local sub shop drops Cinotti’s Bakery after backlash over anti-LGBTQ posts
Read full article: Local sub shop drops Cinotti’s Bakery after backlash over anti-LGBTQ postsA well-known Jacksonville Beach bakery returned to normal business Tuesday in the wake of an apology it issued after one of its owners posted anti-LGBTQ messages to her social media page.
St. Johns County commission sued over Pride proclamation
Read full article: St. Johns County commission sued over Pride proclamationA St. Augustine resident is suing the St. Johns County Commission over its refusal to hear a bill recognizing the county’s LGBTQ+ community, saying the board’s decision infringes on residents’ constitutional rights.
Bill seeks to ban transgender athletes from women’s sports in Florida
Read full article: Bill seeks to ban transgender athletes from women’s sports in FloridaTALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Bills have been filed in 25 states across the country, including Florida, seeking to ban transgender women from competing in women’s school sports. The legislation, which would prevent transgender women from competing in women’s sports, follows multiple instances of transgender athletes winning titles in state and national competitions. The House version of the bill would ban transgender women from competing in women’s sports outright, whereas the Senate version would allow transgender athletes to compete provided they maintain a low testosterone level. AdEskamani said even though there are some restrictions in place for transgender athletes on the professional stage, she believes policies concerning children and student-athletes should be treated differently. In Connecticut, there is an ongoing federal lawsuit challenging whether allowing transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports violates Title IX, a federal civil rights law that aims to shield people from gender-based discrimination.
‘It’s about inclusion’: Expert reacts to Biden’s policy changes related to LGBTQ community
Read full article: ‘It’s about inclusion’: Expert reacts to Biden’s policy changes related to LGBTQ communityThe Biden administration moved quickly to tackle workplace discrimination, particularly discrimination against members of the LGBTQ community. President Joe Biden’s new executive order prohibits the federal government from discriminating against workers on the basis of sexual orientation or sexual identity. Biden also signed an order Monday reversing a Trump-era Pentagon policy that largely barred transgender individuals from serving in the military. Victoria Pelletier, an expert on diversity and inclusion, said Biden’s orders reflect a shift toward inclusiveness across the country. All is critical.”Biden’s military order directs the departments of Defense and Homeland Security to take steps to implement the order for the military and the Coast Guard.
Study: Pandemic eats into LGBTQ representation on network TV
Read full article: Study: Pandemic eats into LGBTQ representation on network TVThe percentage of regularly seen LGBTQ characters on streaming as well as prime-time broadcast TV and cable during the 2020-21 season fell. Prime-time broadcast fell to 9.1% after reaching an all-time high of 10.2% last season. GLAAD's report, “Where We Are on TV,” found that 70 out of 773 series regular characters on broadcast scripted prime-time TV were LGBTQ. The group found good news on the second request in the latest study — over half of LGBTQ characters on cable television were people of color, meeting GLAAD’s challenge. The advocacy group noted that nearly half of all LGBTQ representation in prime-time scripted cable is seen on just three networks — FX, Freeform and Showtime.
Sarah McBride becomes the first openly transgender person to be elected state senator
Read full article: Sarah McBride becomes the first openly transgender person to be elected state senatorWhile most Americans continued awaiting the presidential election results, history was silently being made in Delaware. Sarah McBride, 30, made history on election night by becoming the first openly transgender person to be elected to the state Senate in U.S. history. “I hope tonight shows an LGBTQ kid that our democracy is big enough for them, too,” McBride tweeted Tuesday night after the election was called. McBride is a former spokesperson for the LGBTQ advocacy group Human Rights Campaign and also became the first trans person to speak at a major political convention. McBride will represent parts of Bellefonte, Claymont and Wilmington, the state’s largest city.
New channel offers fare for women in the LGBTQ community
Read full article: New channel offers fare for women in the LGBTQ communityLOS ANGELES – An online channel devoted to women in the LGBTQ community is launching with shows including a pandemic-set romantic comedy and a paranormal drama. The channel debuts Thursday as part of Revry, a digital platform that offers free, queer-focused programming, including the 24/7 Revry News channel. “I’m overjoyed to offer a free, living and breathing space for queer female stories to be seen across the world,” Revry co-founder LaShawn McGhee said in a statement. Now called OML, it's become “a tentpole brand for the lesbian and queer female communities,” McGhee said. OML has expanded its female-driven content and outreach to a larger audience, a goal that will be enhanced by its partnership with Revry, OML founder Shirin Etessam said in a statement.
Mixed Philippine reaction on pope nod on gay civil unions
Read full article: Mixed Philippine reaction on pope nod on gay civil unionsMANILA – Pope Francis’ endorsement of same-sex civil unions drew mixed reactions Thursday in the Philippines, Asia’s bastion of Catholicism, with a retired bishop saying he was scandalized by it while an LGBT group welcomed the pontiff’s remarks with relief. President Rodrigo Duterte’s spokesman said the Philippine leader has long expressed support to same-sex civil unions but added it needed to pass through Congress. Retired Sorsogon Bishop Arturo Bastes said he “had very serious doubts about the moral correctness” of the pontiff’s position. He said it ran against long-standing church teachings, which explicitly permit only the union of man and woman whether in civil, legal or church sacramental unions. Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said Duterte has long supported same-sex civil unions and the papal endorsement may finally convince legislators to give their approval.
NFL launching initiatives throughout LGBTQ History Month
Read full article: NFL launching initiatives throughout LGBTQ History MonthNEW YORK (AP) – The NFL has launched a series of initiatives associated with LGBTQ History Month, which includes National Coming Out Day on Sunday and Spirit Day on Thursday. Included are a dedicated website (NFL.com/PRIDE ); a PSA celebrating former NFL players who have come out voicing support; expanded partnerships with GLAAD and The Trevor Project; a pride-themed NFL shield; and an assortment of LGBTQ content airing on NFL Network throughout October. “The LGBTQ community is an important audience for our sport and a critical part of the NFL family,” said Jonathan Beane, the NFL’s chief diversity officer. On Thursday, the NFL will join the pledge to “go purple” to support LGBTQ youth in a united stand against bullying. It also helps provide perspective and advises on league initiatives relating to the LGBTQ community and helps administer an advisory working group consisting of players, staff and advocacy partners.
Show us your Pride to celebrate National Coming Out Day
Read full article: Show us your Pride to celebrate National Coming Out DayOct. 11 is National Coming Out Day, and for many LGBTQ+ Americans, there are many reasons to celebrate their Pride. National Coming Out Day has been celebrated for 32 years now, and it’s an important reminder on just how far the queer community has come since earlier times. There was an entire generation of LGBTQ Americans who had live inside the closet because of laws and discrimination. So if you’re proud to be out and want it to shout it from the rooftops, tell us about it below! If you have advice for people still in the closet struggling with their identity, maybe offer some advice, and tell us how your life has improved since coming out.
‘Harry Potter’ actors come out in support of trans community after J.K. Rowling’s comments
Read full article: ‘Harry Potter’ actors come out in support of trans community after J.K. Rowling’s commentsI know and love trans people, but erasing the concept of sex removes the ability of many to meaningfully discuss their lives. Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry Potter himself, was the first star to make a statement on the matter. His thoughts were long, but to many “Harry Potter” fans, his words were very comforting. And in my opinion, nobody can touch that.”Emma Watson, who played Hermione Granger, tweeted out in support of the trans community. Trans women are women, trans men are men and non-binary identities are valid.
Senate confirms White House lawyer as appeals court judge
Read full article: Senate confirms White House lawyer as appeals court judgeWASHINGTON, DC – A White House lawyer won Senate confirmation as a federal appeals court judge Thursday despite complaints by lawmakers from both parties about his record on immigration, race, women's equality and LGBTQ rights. Steven Menashi, an associate White House counsel, was confirmed by a 51-41 vote for a seat on the New York-based 2nd U.S. Graham was one of several senators who expressed frustration at Menashi’s refusal to answer questions about his record at the White House and the Education Department during his confirmation hearing in September. Menashi is among more than 150 federal judges nominated by Trump and confirmed by the Senate, including at least 46 appeals court judges. About one-quarter of federal appeals court judges were nominated by Trump.
Billy Porter and Lin-Manuel Miranda Make Epic 'Saturday Night Live' Cameos in CNN Town
Read full article: Billy Porter and Lin-Manuel Miranda Make Epic 'Saturday Night Live' Cameos in CNN TownAfter being put in the hot seat about a problematic op-ed he wrote years ago, he less-than-gracefully just walked off. Later in the sketch, Saturday Night Live corrected a complaint they received over an earlier episode in which Julian Castro was left out of a debate sketch. Porter exclaimed as Lin-Manuel Miranda walked out perfectly embodying Castro. "I'm sorry I'm not gay, In the future, I'll try to do better. Eddie Murphy on Returning to Movies and 'Saturday Night Live' | Full Interview Embed Code RestartRELATED CONTENT:Jennifer Aniston Reveals Why She Turned Down a Spot on 'SNL''Saturday Night Live': Matthew Broderick Channels Ferris Bueller in Impeachment-Focused Cold OpenPhoebe Waller-Bridge Just Can't Part With Her Emmys While Rehearsing for 'SNL'
Researchers: 1 in 10 girls in Florida say they have been raped
Read full article: Researchers: 1 in 10 girls in Florida say they have been rapedA new report released Wednesday uncovers staggering statistics for rates of violence and victimization among Florida girls, particularly for girls of color and those identifying as LGBTQ. The Delores Barr Weaver Policy Center unveiled its "Status of Florida Girls" research report, shining a light on the experiences of girls in their home lives, neighborhoods and schools. READ: Status of Florida Girls research report (PDF)Overall in Florida, one in 10 girls report having been raped, one in three don't feel safe in school. Ravoira said the Status of Florida Girls research reports are the first nationwide to identify Florida's most vulnerable girls by breaking apart the parts of the child well-being data. One young mom, who is also a teacher in Duval County, said she sees the violence and bullying firsthand.
NJ mayor: LGBTQ rights movement 'an affront to almighty God'
Read full article: NJ mayor: LGBTQ rights movement 'an affront to almighty God'BARNEGAT TOWNSHIP, New Jersey (CNN) - A New Jersey mayor called the LGBTQ rights movement "an affront to almighty God" at a town council meeting and warned that people who support "unrighteous laws" will be held accountable. Barnegat Township Mayor Alfonso Cirulli, a former assistant principal, began Tuesday by condemning a state law that requires LGBTQ-inclusive material be taught in public school. He said, "There is no hate or bigotry intended here," and that his comments did not represent the Barnegat Township Committee. Fuscarino said, however, that Garden State Equality has a "great working relationship" with the Barnegat school district and called Cirulli "an outlier." In a statement posted on its website, superintendent Dr. Brian Latwis wrote that the Barnegat Township School District would comply with state guidelines.
LGBTQ members hold memorial for men found dead week apart
Read full article: LGBTQ members hold memorial for men found dead week apartJACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Members of the LGBTQ community gathered Wednesday evening to remember two men they said were found dead a week apart. According to loved ones, Brown was found dead at the University Plaza Apartments. Records from the Sheriff's Office show investigators were called to the scene to investigate a deadly shooting, and they are investigating the shooting as murder. According to friends and loved ones, Brown and Veney were members of the LGBTQ community. The Sheriff's Office only releases victim names when authorized by Marcy's Law, which protects crime victim's rights.
LGBT activist murdered in Russia
Read full article: LGBT activist murdered in Russia(CNN) - An LGBTQ rights activist who was murdered in St. Petersburg had received death threats and was named on a website urging vigilante violence, campaigners have said. Grigoryeva also protested against Russia's backing of the conflict in eastern Ukraine and its annexation of Crimea, Olga Smirnova, a friend and fellow activist, told CNN. A spokeswoman for the Russian LGBT Network told CNN that Grigoryeva's name was included on a Russian website that identified LGBT activists and called for vigilante action against them. "The situation is scary, especially for LGBT activists. Asked about threats that Grigoryeva received, Smirnova said: "She did not just complain, she kept us informed about all the threats that she received.
Jacksonville church holds Pride Prom after library controversy
Read full article: Jacksonville church holds Pride Prom after library controversyJACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Nearly 100 LGBTQ teenagers attended Pride Prom on Friday at The Buckman Bridge Universalist Church after the Jacksonville Public Library's decision to cancel the event due to safety concerns. Around 50 volunteers, Jacksonville Sheriff's Office officers, LGBT veterans, private security and more helped make sure the event ran smoothly. Dozens demonstrate over halted LGBTQ promBeatrice Palmer (BeBe Deluxe), the host of the Pride Prom event, said safety was never an issue. The Pride Prom event was all about friendship, positivity and love. Tim Rogers, director of the Jacksonville Public Library, told News4Jax on Wednesday that he canceled the sold-out event because there were questions about there being enough safety and security.