October 1: Marin Alsop, TRAILBLAZING CONDUCTOR born. October 16, 1956 Photo © GETTY IMAGES “Success means pursuing a career that inspires you — brings passion to your life and totally absorbs your energy.” She is […]
SHADOWS OF EUPHORIA Love between gods, forbidden by fate, tested by family, desire, and ancient adversary. “I am launching a streaming service and content creator portal called bgtv+ www.bgtvplus.us. This is for all black LGBTQ+ […]
Our quest to profile wonderful and exciting authors of note from all genres of books continues. The assignment is presented perpetually because black queer talent exists in everything, anywhere and everywhere, all at once. Today, […]
We jumped at the chance when AJ Ninja approached PrideIndex’s The Esteem Awards regarding sponsorship of Painted Volume 6: The Villains Ball. The last time we sponsored a cash category in 2021, we were more […]
Our series on the ten poets you should know continues; next up is LOVE the poet. Below is our interview with the Baltimore-based LOVE, originally published March 1, 2011. LOVE has performed the Esteem Awards […]
Our series on the ten poets you should know continues; next up is Tarnynon Onumonu. Tarnynon (Ty-yuh-nuh) is a poet and artist from the Jeffery Manor neighborhood on the southeast side of Chicago. In 2017, […]
Photo Credit History of Black Gay America Inc./MEAK Productions Greetings! On behalf of REThink the Narrative and The Esteem Awards and co-sponsors EBANMAN Inc., Raynbow Affair Magazine, and Meak Productions, thank you to those who […]
As the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes continue, no one knows if there’s an end in sight. The strikes have wreaked havoc on entertainment with postponed movie premieres and awards shows and have halted television and […]
Our series on the ten poets you should know continues; next is the Detriot-raised poet Urban Legin’d Obasaki. “The name Obasaki is a blend of Japanese and Yoruba cultures. Oba is the Yoruba word for […]
Our series on the ten poets you should know continues; next is the Millennial Poet named B. The Millennial poet named B is a Chicago-based artist and motivator. B is the creator of She’s a […]
Photo by: T. Williams Allen R. Wells is a creative writer of picture books and Middle-Grade and Young Adult (YA) novels. The Virginia resident grew up in Jackson, MS, where he spent much time reading, […]
After receiving positive input from our readers regarding the parts one and two to the series, I decided to do another round of actors and actresses I would cast in the leading roles of these […]
Our series on the 10 poets you should know continues; up next is Chicago native Sunshine Lombré. Influenced by the rap group The Pharcyde, Maya Angelo, and Chicago artist Steven Willis, Sunshine Lombré strives to […]
Photos by Stuart Locklear A version of this story was published on PrideIndex on February 22, 2012. With the recent success of the Barbie Movie and after catching up with Lena Ingram after all these years, we thought […]
This story has been updated to reflect the Take Up Space, LLC has pushed their opening date back to February 2024. PrideIndex had the pleasure of interviewing Chicago based Take Up Space, LLC Co-founders Kolbey […]
Our favorite spoken word artists list would only be complete by mentioning Storie Devereaux. The singer, poet, and entrepreneur from Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood on the South Side has performed at venues across the city. She […]
REThink the Narrative Media Company & TheEsteemAwards.com present Artists in the Afternoon 3: The Write Passion & Purpose. Join us Saturday, September 2, for an enlightening afternoon highlighting written and spoken word, music, art, and more. […]
PrideIndex was saddened to learn about the passing of the 2023 Esteem Award for Outstanding Healthcare Professional National Dr. Stephaun E. Wallace. A message on his Instagram page reads: “Today at 10:27 am, Dr. Stephaun […]
Photo of Imani Rupert-Gordon and Anna DeShawn from the 2019 Esteem Awards The Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame Inductees information from Press Release PrideIndex was happy to learn that four past Esteem Award finalists will […]
REThink the Narrative Media Company and The Esteem Awards Present Artists in the Afternoon 3: The Write Passion & Purpose The event takes place Saturday September 2 at the Metropolitan Library at 1332 Metropolitan Parkway […]
Brooke Gerbers Photo by @renowedphotos I’m a lifelong lover of spoken word. I remember, as a child listening to my uncle’s Gil Scott Heron albums with my cousins. It was so much fun until we […]
Pictured Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee from Life’s Essentials with Ruby Dee (2014) the documentary explores the life stories of iconic actors Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee as it pertained to lasting love, undying art, […]
Leontyne Price Photo (c) Jack Mitchell Biographical films, or biopics, give audiences a dramatized look into a famous person’s life. What’s Love Have To Do With is among my all-time favorite biopic films. The film had the […]
Earlier this past spring PrideIndex had the pleasure of conversing with Stephaun Elite Wallace, our 2023 Esteem Honoree for Outstanding Healthcare Professional, National . Dr. Stephaun E. Wallace is a research epidemiologist, public health and […]
Join us for this in-person Celebration of Honor on Sat, July 1, at Sidetrack 3349 N. Halsted in Chicago from 1:00 – 3:00 pm. The event is free and open to the public. This year […]
Events for her including BLYSS! & PEACH, Lipstick & Lace/Mad Man Productions have been added. We’re T-minus eight days away from the 2023 Esteem Awards, the annual celebration of honor which takes place during Chicago’s […]
PrideIndex had the pleasure of announcing its 2023 Institutional Award would go to Pride in The Pews. Pride in the Pews is a national grassroots nonprofit building bridges and creating solutions that empower the Black […]
Corky Henderson founded M.ind O.ver M.atter (MOM) in 2007. After a spiritual awakening, he took on the pen name Healing. Having worked in healthcare, he recognized the gaps in our country’s approach to health and […]
Chicago, IL (June 12, 2023) – Black Alphabet and The Esteem Awards.com announced today launch of their first annual poetry slam event in celebration of Black Pride. Coming on July 3 at Chicago’s Sidetrack Video […]
Photo by: capturedbywoodd Encouraged by his grandma, Kareem Queeman, affectionately known as Mr. Bake, started baking at age 8. Kareem Queeman is the Founder and Owner of Mr. Bake Sweets LLC. Kareem went from making sweets […]
PrideIndex was surprised and excited at what we found this afternoon while doing a simple search on Google. This wonderful salute to ball scene Icon and Legend Willi Ninja. Google’s homepage features illustrations of Ninja […]
Chicago author Michael B. Miller’s novel, When My Season Comes II is about a young African American man and his family who experienced many problems in life. This book confronts issues of racism and sexual identity. “I hope […]
From Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Bee Brown, The Bee Agency bee@thebeeagency.com Join LGBT Detroit for the Hotter Than July Book Festival on Friday, July 14, at 8:00 pm. The event […]
2023 Esteem Award winners Alan Sharpe and Dr. David Johns are featured along with other Black Gay men in DOSSIER OF BLACK GAY MEN by EBANMAN. The coffee table book features inspiring profiles of professional […]
Calling all poets! Black Alphabet Film Fest’s first annual poetry slam is coming soon! Grand Prize is 2,023! Submit your 3 minute or less video via https://rb.gy/esmzo in the video please state your name and […]
We’re happy to announce that we have two sponsors for the 2023 Esteem Awards, Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) and AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC). Check out the flyers below announcing the National and […]
Image from Deana Williams‘ short film Tracks Our favorite lesbian themed movies continue. Tracks (2009) Filmmaker Deana Williams made her directorial debut with Tracks. This short film fest circuit movie is a coming of age story […]
Black Alphabet Film Festival (BAFF) the decade old, Chicago film festival for the Black LGBTQ community recently announced events taking place from Thursday May 25 – Saturday May 27. Mix and Mingle in this Social […]
Pride Index is thrilled to bring an update on the 2022 Future Leaders National Esteem Award winner, Tarik Daniels. Tarik is the Executive Director and Founder of Austin-based WhatsintheMirror, a justice movement and health awareness organization. […]
Our favorite lesbian themed movies. Photo from Stud Life Stud Life (2012) J.J., a lesbian, and Seb, a gay man, are best friends – they work together and play together. Then J.J. falls for Elle […]
As you listen to Wyatt O’Brian Evans talk about SHATTERED!, the latest book in the Nothing Can Tear Us Apart series, it’s crystal clear that he’s excited about the project. As he should be this, “gay/same gender loving. […]
Poetry Slam Jul 03, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM CDT Sidetrack, 3349 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657, USA SAVE THE DATE – Over $2023 in prizes–More details coming soon including how to enter this […]
James Hannaham is a writer, performer, critic, and visual artist. The Bronx-born/Yonkers-raised author is a professor in the writing program at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. His short fiction has appeared in BOMB, […]
Dr. Joel Davis Brown is an Entrepreneur, Spoken Word Artist, Activist, and Metaphysician. He is the Chief Visionary Officer of Pneumos LLC. Joel works strategically with various organizations, including non-profit organizations, Fortune 500 companies, churches, […]
Nasir Kenneth Ferebee is an NAACP Image Award, GLAAD, and three-time Telly Award winning producer, filmmaker, and writer. He earned a film degree from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. After graduation, Nasir launched his career […]
Dion Alexander McNeal is a Black non-binary person, thriving with HIV. They are a HIV advocate, multimedia expert, and certified good troublemaker. Dion, aka Dusty Lion, founded Hopeful in Victory, LLC and one of its […]
Chicago, April 11, 2023 – Today, we’re proud to announce the Esteem Awards has bestowed its Outstanding Service, CBO, Local award to the Chicago Urban League and Outstanding Service, CBO, National award to LGBT Detroit. […]
Photos courtesy of Michael Lamar Simeon Michael Lamar Simeon, aka the Black gay comic geek, is a self-described guy that likes other guys, comic books, movies, and video games. His Safe Gayven platform has over […]
Photos from Angelina Nordstrom’s Facebook Page The Honorable Angelina Nordstrom is a Chicago-based two-spirit, Indigenous Black trans-femme who grew up in Memphis. As a person with indigenous roots with the Choctaw tribe, Angelina brings a […]
Chicago, March 30, 2023 – Today, we’re excited to announce the Esteem Awards has bestowed its Special Recognition, Local award to Chicago Humanities. “Chicago Humanities connects people to the ideas that shape and define us and promotes […]
Photos Courtesy of Patric McCoy Patric McCoy is a retired environmental scientist in the Air and Radiation Division of the U.S. EPA in Chicago. McCoy has been collecting contemporary African American art for over five […]
Photo from 2022 Esteem Awards The Esteem Awards is seeking community support of our annual celebration of honor. Since 2007, the EAs has honored local and national organizations and individuals for their continued support of […]
From Press Release Lambda Literary has announced the finalists in 25 categories for the 35th Annual Lambda Literary Awards. The finalists were selected by a panel of over 65 literary professionals from more than 1,350 […]
Photos Courtesy of Taylor Mason Taylor Mason developed a love for tacos while attending Pepperdine University on a basketball scholarship. When she was not playing, the Chicago-born and bred future entrepreneur would become known as […]
avery r. young Photo by: Sulyiman Stokes Chicago, March 15, 2023 – Today, we’re excited to announce eleven individuals and two organizations have been selected to be honored during this year’s 16th Annual Esteem Awards. […]
Chicago author Eugene H. Nelson’s “Son of Xavier” is a book that follows a married woman Juanita Wade, who discovers that she is carrying a child of a younger man that she was having an […]
Photos courtesy of Charles A. Bush Author Charles A. Bush was raised in Philadelphia and attended Cabrini University before honing his craft at the University of Oxford. In addition to writing young adult novels, he […]
Photos Courtesy of Dr. Terrance Weeden PrideIndex recently chatted with Chicago-based pediatrician and adolescent medicine physician Dr. Terrance Weeden. Weeden received his medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Georgia Campus. He is […]
The Esteem Awards seeks to recognize outstanding African American/POC, LGBTQ+ individuals, organizations, and our allies. Nominees should be individuals and organizations that have made some substantial contributions to the African American/POC and LGBTQ+ communities, whether […]
Viveré Chocolates pronounced (vi-ve-re), meaning: TO LIVE!Viveré Chocolates was founded by Tuscaloosa native Robert Bowman. Viveré specializes in custom corporate chocolate gifts. The company’s artisanal chocolates are handmade using a premium blend of all-natural, 70% […]
Photo From Lavenderpop Greeting Cards Gift-giving can sometimes be tricky, even if you know your spouse or partner well. And furthermore, it’s more challenging when you consider factors such as: Check out our list of […]
Photos Courtesy of Pierce Cruz PrideIndex recently chatted with mixed-media artist Pierce I. Cruz. His art expresses his experiences, thoughts, and imagination through figures, colors, and patterns. “My medium includes painting, drawing, and photography,” he […]
Photo by Ambiance Digital Photography Kaya Rainey is a full-figured model, fashion consultant, and proprietor of Chicago-based The Kaya Kollection, an eyewear boutique. She has worked with some of the most influential fashion designers and […]
Photo from 2022 Esteem Awards pictured left to right Renauda Riddle, co-owner of Nobody’s Darling, Michelle Brown, Zahara Bassett, M. Shelly Conner, Adam McMath of Black Alphabet NFP and Shakur Silas. The National Endowment for […]
Krylios Clarke Jr. is a fiction writer, playwright, producer, emcee, actor, and storyteller. He is a co-host and moderator with Team Rayceen Productions. His debut anthology “Fears, Fantasies & Freedom“ (Amazon Digital Services LLC, 2022) is […]
Photo Courtesy of Fiona Zedde The best news of my day came when it was confirmed that Jamaican-born author Fiona Zedde signed on to participate in Artists in the Afternoon: Beyond Publishing. I first became familiar […]
REThink the Narrative Media Company, TheEsteemAwards.com & EBANMAN.com present Artists in the Afternoon: Beyond Publishing. Join us for an afternoon highlighting written and spoken word, music, art, and more. As we discuss why representations matters, it is sure to […]
Photo By: Lia Clay Miller E.C. Pizarro III is a man with high ambitions. E.C. worked as a brand designer and tech entrepreneur for over 12 years. After obtaining his Bachelor of Fine Arts from […]
Eros Da Artiste is one of the most talented people you will ever meet. The author, singer, actor, content creator, and visual artist resides in Baltimore. “I Choose Pain” is his first work in The […]
We present our lost interview with Raynbow Affair Magazine Editor-in-Chief DiamondKesawn. The Boston raised, and Baltimore made larger than life personality was born Kesawn Cooper. He became known as a girl’s best friend, aka Diamond. […]
Below PrideIndex and EBANMAN present our final group of Intriguing Black Gay Gentlemen. In this article, in no particular order, we bring our favorite authors, educators, and physicians to you. Dr. Maurice Brownlee Dr. Maurice […]
By Kayla Thompson, Communities of Color Junior Associate GLAAD.org | December 22, 2022 Playwright Jordan E. Cooper’s “Ain’t No Mo,” a brilliant comedic portrait of Black American life, took to the Broadway stage on December 1. Written by Jordan […]
Our list of “The 25 African American LGBTQ+ people that Hollywood should consider making a biopic about right away” represents people from all walks of life. These entertainers, politicians, journalists, activists, and athletes have blazed […]
Photo Credit REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque U.S. President Joe Biden celebrates with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, Rep. Jerry Nadler, first lady Jill Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris […]
By Lana Leonard GLAAD.org | December 8, 2022 Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz Brittany Griner, seven-time all-star WNBA player and two-time Olympic gold medalist, has been freed from Russia after a one-to-one prisoner swap with international […]
By Dino-Ray Ramos GLADD.org | December 5, 2022 Courtesy of STARZ Step Up has returned for its third season on STARZ and there is a lot to expect from this season – specifically with Keiynan Lonsdale whose character Tal is back, and he […]
By Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus Join us for our next installment of the Financial Literacy $eries as we take a deeper dive into credit! Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus invites you to the second […]
By GLAAD | November 30, 2022 The runoff election for the U.S. Senate is now underway in Georgia. Early in-person voting is happening now, and Election Day is December 6, 2022. LGBTQ voters in Georgia provided the winning margin […]
A two-day experience –Symposium and Closing Ceremony Hosted by Danny Dunson, Director of Curatorial Services and Community Partnerships for The DuSable Museum Celebrating The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center’s groundbreaking presentation of NICK CAVE/JACK CAVE: THE […]
Influenced by her southern roots and legacy of great cooks including, her mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Jurni Rayne always dreamed of owning a restaurant. She started working as a restaurant server at the age of […]
At first glance, you might mistake Joel D. Jackson, also known as JD Balmain, for an educator, lawyer, or family doctor. He does not appear to be someone who walks balls. As he speaks, it […]
By Allison Bloom, Communications Consultant GLAAD.org | November 18, 2022 Inspired by musician Yungblud’s song with the same name, MARS, is a short film about self-discovery. The film, starring Yasmine Finney, follows a day in the life of Charlie […]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 15, 2022 Contacts: Tracy BaimPublisher, Chicago Readertbaim@chicagoreader.com773-387-2394 JT NewmanOwner & Event Producer, Sprout Partnershipsjtnewman@sproutpartnerships.com917-750-7021 On November 30, the Reader Institute for Community Journalism (RICJ), the nonprofit publisher of the legendary Chicago […]
The San Francisco Transgender Film Festival (SFTFF) celebrates its 25th Anniversary from November 10 – 20, 2022. Check out the teaser trailer below and click here for more information.
By GLAAD.org | November 9, 2022 The midterm voting is complete, but the big picture implications—for LGBTQ rights, abortion, voting rights, election denial—are still coming into focus. One thing was absolutely certain, however. The expected dramatic […]
By Dino-Ray Ramos GLAAD.org | November 9, 2022 Since its premiere, the ABC sitcom Abbott Elementary has quickly found success and brought hope back to network TV, a space that has been an afterthought in a landscape of streamers and […]
Photo by Ben Willis PrideIndex presents our fascinating interview of Prince Shakur. He is a queer, Jamaican American freelance journalist, author and NY Times recognized organizer. His writings range from op-eds in Teen Vogue to […]
Dean Atta (Southside) Photo by Thomas Sammut PrideIndex continues to highlight the works of queer authors of note from all over the world. Our latest interview takes you to the other side of the Atlantic. […]
By Allison Bloom, Communications Consultant of GLAAD.org | November 7, 2022 In a time where anti-LGBTQ legislation is at an all time high and bodily autonomy is on the line, exercising our power to vote is more important […]
From Press Release Friday, November 4 at 7:30pm! Black Harvest Opening Night: A BLACK HARVEST FEAST 2021 – 2022 / Various directors / USA, Canada / 90 mins / In English and French with English subtitles […]
By GLAAD | November 3, 2022 As early voting is underway, polls show in New York’s governor’s race has tightened. GLAAD urges the media to include LGBTQ people and issues in their coverage this campaign season and to ask the […]
By GLAAD.org | November 1, 2022 Photo by Meredith Truax The third in GLAAD’s “Vote with Pride” video series is released today. In conversation with Emmy-winning artist and activist Billy Porter is Rashad Robinson, President of Color of Change, […]
Opening Reception! 41 Films! Community! Don’t Miss It! Click Black Alphabet Film Fest to reserve your seat today.
born October 19, 1969 Photo © GETTY IMAGES “I take a character who would never think she’d be a main character … I make her front and center.” Alice Wu is a director and screenwriter. […]
born October 19, 1969 Photo © GETTY IMAGES “I knew I didn’t want to go into pure partisan politics, so covering it and analyzing it was very much up my alley.” Amy Walter is the […]
LGBT History Month 2022, Amy Schneider, “Jeopardy!” Contestant born May 29, 1979 Photo © GETTY IMAGES “The best part for me has been being on TV as my true self.” Amy Schneider is a […]
born October 1, 1965 Photo © WIKIPEDIA “Moderation and judicial modesty are crucial characteristics of a judge.” J. Paul Oetken is the judge for the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. […]
Esteem Award winner, Black Alphabet Film Fest, returns for its 9th annual event on November 4th-6th, 2022, at the Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, 915 E. 60th St Chicago, IL 60637. The […]
born March 17, 1938 died January 6, 1993 Photo © GETTY IMAGES “You live because you dance, you dance as long as you live.” Rudolf Nureyev was a Soviet-born ballet star and choreographer, celebrated for […]
By Dino-Ray Ramos GLAAD.org | October 25, 2022 Many were first introduced to actress Angelica Ross as the scene-stealing Candy Ferocity in the groundbreaking Emmy-winning FX series Pose. Now, Ross’s career trajectory has skyrocketed with roles in American Horror Story and most recently, she […]
born March 3, 1926 died February 6, 1995 Photo © GETTY IMAGES “Let the mind be … a landing strip for sacred visitations.” James Ingram Merrill was a great 20th-century literary figure. Celebrated for his […]
As you listen to Todd McKinley talk about Southern Roots Spice Company, it becomes apparent he means business. His knowledge of seasonings and willingness to experiment with flavor combinations would lead one to believe that he is […]
born June 26, 1951 died December 22, 2001 Photo © GETTY IMAGES “It was a pleasure to be a gay eyesore.” Alanson Russell “Lance” Loud was a television celebrity, a rock singer and a writer. […]
born August 16, 1888 died May 19, 1935 Photo © GETTY IMAGES “Truly, for some men nothing is written unless they write it.” T.E. Lawrence, “Lawrence of Arabia,” was a British archeologist, Army colonel and […]
born September 1939 Photo © GETTY IMAGES “Now, if a gay judge is appointed, people barely bat an eye … at the time, this was big news.” Stephen Lachs is an American attorney and LGBTQ […]
PrideIndex was honored to interview Ericka Blount, the Chairwoman, and CEO at Distinction Management Group, LLC, and owner of Blount Wine Therapy. She started the wine company to deal with workplace trauma and mental health. […]
Photo © GETTY IMAGES born May 18, 1987 “Growing up poor, Black, and gay, I never imagined someone like me could run for Congress, let alone win.” Mondaire Jones became the country’s first out gay […]
By Lana Leonard GLAAD.org | October 21, 2022 Politicians throughout the nation unite in GLAAD’s anti-bullying campaign, Spirit Day. This day is to influence awareness of the LGBTQ community against lethal harms that bullying causes. This includes at the legislative […]
Photo © GETTY IMAGES born October 6, 2000 “No matter what your differences are, you have to embrace them and be proud of the way you are.” One of the youngest publicly documented transgender children, […]
Photo by Don E. Harris Alan Sharpe is a writer/director of the LGBTQ+ stage and film. In the 90s, he started a theater company that would eventually become the African-American Collective (ACT). Sharpe has written […]
By Kayla Thompson, Communities of Color Junior Associate GLAAD.org | October 20, 2022 Today Black LGBTQ celebrities, Black and LGBTQ-led non-profits and community-based organizations, and Black allies lined our timelines with love and a sea of purple for […]
Photo © GETTY IMAGES born September 25, 1952 died December 15, 2021 “I will not have my life narrowed down. I will not bow down … to someone else’s ignorance.” Bell Hooks was a Black […]
U.S. Senate candidates from Nevada, Catherine Cortez Masto, (D) (above, left) and Adam Laxalt (R) (above, right) By GLAAD.org | October 19, 2022 Early voting begins in Nevada on October 22, and voters will have a choice […]
Ryan Douglass is an author, freelance writer, and poet from Atlanta. Douglass contributed to the Huffington Post, the Atlanta Black Star, and LGBTQ Nation. He is the author of the poetry book “Boy in Jeopardy” (2019) […]
Photo © WIKIPEDIA born August 12, 1880 died October 7, 1943 “Our love may be faithful even unto death and beyond — yet the world will call it unclean.” Radclyffe Hall was a British author […]
By GLAAD | October 17, 2022 In the final stretch in the 2022 midterm election, Pennsylvania is one of the most hotly contested states, and the outcome will have significant effect on LGBTQ people there. Currently, Pennsylvania is the […]
© STORY CENTER FILMS, LLC, PHOTO: SAM HENRIQUES born April 22, 1930 died. May 1, 2017 “Stop it, you’re making me sick!” Ron Gold played an important role in the American Psychiatric Association’s (APA’s) declassification […]
Photo © GETTY IMAGES born January 13, 1967 ““To create, and to confront, one has to be an outcast.” Masha Gessen is a Russian-American journalist, an activist and a vocal critic of Vladimir Putin and […]
Photo © WIKIPEDIA born October 28, 1842 died October 22, 1932 “See to it, women who listen to me … that no man take your crown.” Anna Elizabeth Dickinson was an early American orator who […]
Photo © GETTY IMAGES born. May 23, 1958 “I’m a big butch dyke with a smile on my face.” Lea DeLaria is an award-winning actor, a jazz singer and the first openly gay comedian to […]
Photo: Mark Kelly (D) (above, left) and Blake Masters (R) (above, right) By GLAAD | October 13, 2022 In the 2022 midterm contest, election denial narratives began before the primary polls were even closed. Primary voters in Arizona chose election deniers […]
Photo © WIKIPEDIA born. January 12, 1946 “The top of the mountain is the bottom of the next, so keep climbing.” André De Shields is a queer award-winning actor, singer, and dancer, and an acclaimed […]
Photo © GETTY IMAGES born. June 12, 1895 died. May 8, 1974 “No man in the Government, with the possible exception of the President, knows so many of the nation’s strategic secrets.” – The New […]
From Press Release SFTFF 2022’s hybrid festival, presented both in person and online, spans 10-days from November 10-20 with seven short film programs showcasing 47 films SAN FRANCISCO, CA, US, October 12, 2022 /EINPresswire.com/ The San […]
Photo © THE CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING born. April 7, 1944 died. March 21, 2015 “For the first time, we had concrete federal civil rights protection” Curtis Selden “Kitty” Cone was a disabled lesbian activist […]
By GLAAD.org | October 10, 2022 Monday night in Cleveland, the candidates for U.S. Senate in Ohio answered questions in their first debate of the midterm campaign, including questions about marriage equality and other issues important to […]
By Lex Gilbert GLAAD.org | October 10, 2022 GLAAD is working to ensure all LGBTQ voters and their allies are informed about upcoming midterm elections and encouraged to go vote. To do that, we’ll highlight races in some […]
Photo © CREATIVE COMMONS born. May 29, 1934 died. March 22, 1994 “Of course, if we change the future, we change the past.” Cárdenas was the first publicly out lesbian in Mexico. Her activism, poetry […]
By GLAAD | October 10, 2022 Pictured above: Sen. Raphael Warnock (left) and Herschel Walker (right) The deadline to register to vote in Georgia is October 11, and early voting begins October 17. The candidates for U.S. Senate will appear […]
Photo © GETTY IMAGES born. June 21, 1960 “There’s no better place to fight for working families than the governor’s chair.” Kate Brown is a Democrat and the first openly bisexual governor in the United […]
Photo © GETTY IMAGES born. June 22, 1958 “The more we feel compelled to keep explaining ourselves, the less like others we become.” Jennifer Finney Boylan is a transgender author and activist, celebrated for her […]
Photo © GETTY IMAGES born. 1966 “The Reserve Banks are vital contributors to our nation’s economic and financial success.” Dr. Raphael Bostic is the 15th president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) of […]
Photo © GETTY IMAGES born. October 11, 1977 “Everybody thinks that equality comes from identifying people, and that’s not where equality comes from.” Matt Bomer is an award-winning actor and LGBTQ advocate. Some of his […]
Photo © GETTY IMAGES born. September 25, 1981 “Sometimes it’s not cancellation. It’s just plain ol’ accountability.” Victor Blackwell is an openly gay award-winning journalist, correspondent and CNN anchor. Blackwell was born in Baltimore, Maryland. […]
Photo © GETTY IMAGES born. October 16, 1980 “Every great team has had to fail at some point in order to be successful.” Sue Bird is a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) star and a […]
From Press Release October 4, 2022 Dear Film Center Community, We’re thrilled to announce that passes for the Gene Siskel Film Center’s 28th Annual Black Harvest Film Festival are ON SALE NOW! The Black Harvest Film Festival is Chicago’s […]
Jaxon Grant is an urban gay author who grew up in Orlando, now residing in Tallahassee, Florida. Jaxon is an educator and one of the most successful black gay fiction writers. His published titles include […]
Photo © GENORA DANCEL “Maybe I was living in fantasyland, but when you want to marry someone, that’s all you think about.” – Genora Dancel Ninia Baehr and Genora Dancel were plaintiffs in the first […]
From A Press Release October 3, 2022 The Publishing Triangle, an American association of gay men and lesbians in the publishing industry, is now accepting nominations for its fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and trans/GV awards, given for books […]
Photo © GETTY IMAGES born. May 15, 1923 died. October 1, 2004 “All photographs are accurate. None of them is the truth.” Richard Avedon was a world-famous photographer who specialized in fashion and portraiture. Best […]
Photo © MICHAEL SHARKEY born. April 7, 1921 died. March 21, 2021 “After years of deep reflection, I realized that I was not living my true self.” Robina Asti was a World War II Navy […]
CONTACT: Tracy Baim, publisher, Chicago Reader773-387-2394 Collaboration includes independent community and diverse media, legacy and newer outlets under the hashtag #WeAmplifyChicagoVoices Pledges made on 3rd & 4th have 3X the impact CHICAGO —Nearly 40 independent Chicago-area […]
born. April 2, 1805 died. August 4, 1875 “Just living is not enough … one must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.” Hans Christian Andersen was a Danish storyteller and novelist, most famous for […]
Photo by: Sam Waxman Carl Clemons-Hopkins is a performer and stage artist best known for their breakout role as Marcus in HBO Max’s Hacks. In 2021, they made history as the first non-binary person to be nominated […]
By Mary Emily O’Hara, Rapid Response Manager GLAAD.org | September 23, 2022 When GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis and her wife Kristen Ellis-Henderson first had children, “there were no books that showed our family. There was […]
Mark your calendar and make plans to join us for the 9th Annual Purple Tie Affair Concert & Silent Auction. This year we are excited to give back to the Chicago Therapy Collective. Chicago Therapy […]
Photo Courtesy of Aaron Foley Aaron Foley is a writer and journalist from Detroit and resides in Brooklyn. Foley is the founding director of the Black Media Initiative at the Center for Community Media at […]
By Dino-Ray Ramos GLADD.org | September 13, 2022 There were plenty of surprises and expectations met during tonight’s 74th Emmys ceremony which was on the fairly low side when it came to LGBTQ representation – but […]
Photo by Yinka Paris BLACK AS U R is a feature-length docu-film that explores the intersectional lives of black queer youth fighting for equality within their community. The film is directed by Micheal Rice and is […]
Atlanta author Doris Thomas heard about our Artist in the Afternoon event through a friend, panelist Penny Duncan Stephens, and decided she wanted to participate. “My stories are about me as a young girl during segregation,” said Doris. […]
We present to you author Penny Duncan Stephens. Penny is one of the author panelists set to appear at the forthcoming Artists in the Afternoon: Prose, Poetry, & More on Saturday, September 3, at the Metropolitan Library, […]
We present to you Dr. Jesse Sanders, Ph.D. Dr. Sanders will moderate the mental health, relationship, and wealth-building panel session for our Artists in the Afternoon: Prose, Poetry, & More event on Saturday, September 3, at the […]
By Dino-Ray Ramos GLAAD.org | August 29, 2022 Photo from GLAAD.org Lil Nas X walked away from last night’s MTV Video Music Awards as the prince of the ceremony, nabbing three Moon Person trophies for his video for […]
Photo Courtesy of Derek Automotive Group The LGBT Food and Wine Festival is happy to announce some exciting news from participating Black-owned business, Derek Automotive Technology (DAT). Derek Automotive, one of the first Black-owned electric vehicle […]
Ken J. Martin is up next as we continue to bring you more information on the Artist in the Afternoon participants. Atlanta-born singer, and songwriter Ken J. Martin, performs folk and acoustic style music. “My styling is similar […]
By Serena Sonoma GLAAD.org | August 23, 2022 Last Sunday, Florida’s Agency for Health Care Administration’s (AHCA) ended its Medicaid coverage for life saving health care, affecting an estimated 9,000 of the state’s transgender Medicaid enrollees. The […]
Photos Courtesy of Tom Logan and Joshua Luke The LGBT Food and Wine Festival will take place on Sunday, September 4, 2022, in Atlanta’s Central Park. The festival will feature cooking demonstrations, delicious cuisine, artisans/lifestyle […]
Anthony Kyle Robinson is up next as we continue to bring you more information on the Artist in the Afternoon participating panelists. In a million years, Anthony Kyle Robinson never thought he would call himself […]
We continue our series of conversations with the Artist in the Afternoon participating panelist. Next up is Latanya Mack. Latanya Mack, a Chicago, native, resides in Atlanta, Georgia. As a retiree, she began writing to […]
Photo by Rubén Esparza for ONE Archives Foundation. ONE Archives Foundation and Queer Biennial present the author event Hand in Hand, featuring traci kato-kiriyama and Imani Tolliver. Hand in Hand will feature readings from new works by traci kato-kiriyama and Imani Tolliver, followed by an exchange between […]
We present to you writer Casey Hamilton. Casey is the one of author panelists set to appear at the forthcoming Artists in the Afternoon: Prose, Poetry, & More on Saturday, September 3, at the Metropolitan Library, 1332 […]
Terrance Dean was an author, academic and former MTV executive. He is best known for his 2008 memoir Hiding In Hip Hop and is the author of books including Reclaim Your Power! A 30-Day Guide to Hope, Healing and […]
REThink the Narrative Media Company and The Esteem Awards present Artist in the Afternoon: Prose, Poetry, & More Join us for an afternoon highlighting written and spoken word, music, art, and more. With hors d’oeuvres, […]
By Kayla Thompson, Communities of Color Junior Associate GLAAD.org | August 5, 2022 Award-winning playwright Donja R. Love’s Write it Out! (WIO!) program is entering its third year and eagerly searching for its third cohort of writers. Write it Out! […]
By GLAAD | August 1, 2022 VIDEO: FAMILIES AND TEACHERS SPEAK OUT ABOUT IMPACT OF ANTI-LGBTQ LAWS NOW IN EFFECT AND AS STUDENTS GO BACK TO SCHOOL IN FLORIDA “Florida’s LGBTQ and ally voters have grave concerns about […]
July 13, 2022🏳️🌈 Pioneers of Queer Cinema 🏳️🌈 August 2 – September 4, 2022 From Press Release originally published July 13, 2022 In partnership with the UCLA Film & Television Archive, the Gene Siskel Film Center presents […]
By Dino-Ray Ramos GLAAD.org | July 21, 2022 Demand for the monkeypox virus (MPV) vaccine remains extremely high, especially in LGBTQ-inclusive areas including New York and Southern California. The Department of Health and Human Services announced on July […]
July 20, 2022 GSFC Contact: Lori Hile lhile@saic.edu MFF contact: Carlos Rogelio Diaz carlos@midwestfilm.com info@midwestfilm.com The Midwest Film Festival (MFF) is proud to present our 13th annual celebration of creators who identify as female and […]
PrideIndex and EBANMAN have joined forces for our first ever three-part series, The Society of Intriguing Black Gay Gentlemen. The intriguing black gay men listing shines the spotlight on those fellas who are making a […]
By Dino-Ray Ramos GLAAD.org | July 12, 2022 Representation matters, but this year’s list of Emmy nominations doesn’t seem to reflect that – at least in some of the major categories. Melissa Fumero and JB Smoove announced the […]
By Kayla Thompson, Communities of Color Junior Associate GLAAD.org | July 6, 2022 This summer, jaamil olawale kosoko is bringing their recently released book Black Body Amnesia: Poems and Other Speech Acts to the stage with two New York City performances on July […]
By Allison Bloom, Communications Consultant GLAAD.org | July 6, 2022 GLAAD is proud to present the newest roundup of PSAs from our partner Love Has No Labels. Three powerful videos show the impact everyday people living in America […]
Coming Soon “legendary: Inside the House Ballroom Scene” an interview of Gerald Gaskins Gerard H. Gaskin is a native of Trinidad and Tobago. His book, Legendary: Inside the House and Ballroom Scene was published in 2013 […]
GALECA Press Release Photo: Janelle James in Abbott Elementary © 2021 American Broadcasting Companies, Inc. JUNE 22, 2022 – As frighteningly reactionary Florida governor Ron DeSantis frets that grade school teachers will somehow turn kids queer . . […]
What to know about the colors, symbolism, and history of LGBTQ flags. Elizabeth Yuko Readers Digest June 27, 2022 The diversity of the LGBTQ community When you think about symbols of the LGBTQ community, the […]
It’s approximately one week from showtime for the 2022 Esteem Awards, part of Chicago’s Black Gay weekend. As the excitement and anticipation are building by the second moment, I wish I could add another couple […]
By Serena Sonoma GLAAD.org | June 22, 2022 Jon Batiste is kicking off the summer heat! Last Saturday the Grammy and Academy Award-winning singer performed at the Something in the Water Music Festival in Washington DC over Juneteenth weekend. […]
By Yolanda Lenge, Entertainment Consultant | June 21, 2022 Photo Credit: [Grizz Studios] For Pride this year, you’ll find The Dragon Sisters eagerly embracing every soul that is lucky enough to experience their fierce and powerful presence all […]
By Lana Leonard GLAAD.org | June 17, 2022 The 4th annual Queer Liberation March will take place Sunday, June 26th starting at Foley Square at 2 p.m. and ending at Washington Square Park. The Reclaim Pride Coalition (RPC)—a […]
By GLAAD | June 16, 2022 GLAAD has teamed up with audio entertainment leader Audible to co-curate and produce a written interview series featuring LGBTQIA+ talent from the Audible family. Our first interview features Aaron Foley, the founding […]
ONE Archives Foundation is thrilled to launch a new podcast project for this year’s Pride season – Periodically Queer. The podcast will dive deep into the history and stories around LGBTQ+ print media, periodicals, and organizations. […]
On behalf of the Board of Directors, Staff, Advisors, and volunteers of LGBT Detroit, we extend our most profound sorrow upon receiving the news of the Woodward Bar and Grill’s destruction today. The Woodward Bar […]
Photo still from Mama Gloria film Legendary Transgender LGBTQ+ rights advocate/activist and 2014 Esteem Award winner for Outstanding Services Transgender Gloria Allen has passed away. The cause of death is unknown at this time. “Mama […]
By Dino-Ray Ramos GLAAD.org | June 13, 2022 If there was one year that Michael R. Jackson’s queer-fronted musical A Strange Loop to win the Tony Award for Best Musical, this was the year. After a raging pandemic, a racial […]
Carlo Quispe is a Peruvian-born gay comic book artist, educator, and author. His books and characters include “Uranus Comics,” “Political Will”, and “Carlito,” about a 10-year-old queer boy, “and queer superhero Supermanuel.” Carlo grew up […]
On June 11, 2022, we announced the winners of the 34th Annual Lambda Literary Awards. These winners were selected by a panel of over 60 literary professionals from more than 1,300 book submissions from over […]
We continue our series of conversations with LGBTQ+ and POC-themed filmmakers presenting projects at the 2022 Tribeca Film Festival. We chatted with April Maxey, the director, and writer of the short narrative film Work. Work is a […]
By Lana Leonard GLAAD.org | June 8, 2022 Zach Stafford met Edafe Okporo after he gave a talk on the future of queerness at Columbia University a few years ago. At the time, Stafford left his job […]
By Dino-Ray Ramos GLAAD.org | June 9, 2022 Whether blatant or subtle, the world of vampires has always been sexy. More than that it has always been queer coded. From Interview with a Vampire to Blade to the Twilight franchise to Buffy the Vampire […]
TIPPINGPOINT Photo Credit: Barry Ackroyd If you were to take one cup of the adrenaline from the movie Rize and mix in two parts, the step routines of Stomp The Yard, and then add a […]
Photo avery r. young CONTACT:June 7, 2022analía rodríguezField Foundation of Illinois(773) 259-4826arodriguez@fieldfoundation.org A’Lexus MurphyRise Strategy Group(817) 703-6419alexus@risestrategygroup.com FIELD AND MACARTHUR FOUNDATIONS ANNOUNCE 2022 LEADERS FOR A NEW CHICAGO COHORT10 Diverse Leaders Across the City to […]
📽️Dear Film Lovers, In the spirit of our Black Harvest Film Festival, the Gene Siskel Film Center is thrilled to present a film the Hollywood Reporter dubs “the future of Black cinema,” NEPTUNE FROST , opening Friday, June 10, exclusively at […]
D. Santos Donaldson Photo by Billy Bustamante David Santos Donaldson was raised in Nassau, Bahamas, and has lived in India, Spain, and the United States. He attended Wesleyan University and the Drama Division of The […]
Photo By Tommie LaBeija The Royal House of LaBeija was founded in 1972 by Crystal and Lottie in response to the racially oppressive drag pageant system of 1960s America. The “Crystal & Lottie LaBeija First […]
While browsing through my America’s Test Kitchen Cookbook and YouTube videos for a smothered potatoes recipe, I stumbled across videos by Uncle Chris’ The Food Pantry Chef. Armed with nothing more than a cellphone camera […]
By GLAAD | June 1, 2022 GLAAD’s Anthony Allen Ramos chats with queer historian and Executive Producer, Eric Cervini about his new five part series on Discovery+ The Book of Queer which premieres June 2. WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW HERE: […]
By Jose Useche, Communications Coordinator | GLAAD.org May 31, 2022 To kick off Pride Month, GLAAD is releasing an exclusive, first look at a new docuseries exploring the life of queer Rock music icon, Freddie Mercury. A Life In […]
By Amanda Hurwitz, Entertainment Research Jr. Associate | May 29, 2022 GLAAD.org Photo Credit: The CW Grab the remote, set your DVR or queue up your streaming service of choice! GLAAD is bringing you the LGBTQ highlights on […]
We present our lost interview with poet and writer Jericho Brown. We talked to Jericho in January 2014, just before he released his second book New Testament. Jericho Brown was born and raised in Shreveport. He earned a […]
By Jose Useche, Communications Coordinator | May 27, 2022 The SKITTLES® Annual Pride Packs Get A Splash of Color Thanks to Six Talented LGBTQ Artists As part of its ongoing mission to increase LGBTQ+ visibility and celebrate those […]
Photo by: Polina Osherov Adrian Matejka is the author of The Devil’s Garden (Alice James Books, 2003), which won the New York / New England Award, and Mixology (Penguin, 2009), a winner of the 2008 National Poetry Series. His […]
Lasaia Wade along with Gloria Allen Photo from Lasaia Wade Facebook page PrideIndex proudly presents part two of The Trans 25. Profiles from Wikipedia Angelica Ross Angelica Ross is an American actress, and businesswoman. A self-taught computer programmer, […]
Queer Media Collaborative By Dana Piccoli, project manager In early 2022, News is Out, a pioneering queer media collaborative featuring seven legacy media publishers (Bay Area Reporter, Dallas Voice, Philadelphia Gay News, Q Voice News, Tagg Magazine, Washington Blade and Windy City Times), […]
By GLAAD | May 19, 2022 By: Contributing Writers, Kenneth Courtney & Chris Rengifo Charles Hughes and Richard Solomon, the creators of Lambda Vodka and owners of Lambda Lounge, Harlem’s hip, upscale LGBTQ+ bar, lit up the streets of Brooklyn on Thursday, […]
Gloria Allen Photo from Mama Gloria (2020) Profiles from Wikipedia Each day the transgender community is faced with bias and, in some cases, life-threatening violence. As anti-transgender legislation sweeps across the country, we thought we […]
As many African American LGBTQ-owned bars dwindle across the country, owners and married couple Charles Hughes and Richard Solomon are blessed to be the proprietors of two clubs in New York City. PrideIndex had the […]
The Publishing Triangle is proud to announce the winners of the 34th annual Triangle Awards, honoring the best LGBTQ fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and trans literature published in 2021. The Ferro-Grumley Award for LGBTQ Fiction, presented […]
Photo from video still Ncuti Gatwa and Russell T. Davies speak about Doctor Who casting on the red carpet for the TV Baftas (C) The Sun Showbiz , Actor Profiles from Wikipedia With the announcement […]
May 6, 2022 Contact: Lori Hile lhile@saic.edu GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER ANNOUNCES MAY – JUNE 50/50 FILM-SERIES TITLES AS PART OF ITS YEAR-LONG 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Films are presented each Monday to commemorate the Film Center’s 50-year history […]
Photo by David Hagen Terry Guest is an award-winning Playwright, Poet, Actor, and Artist based in Chicago. His acting credentials include work at renowned theaters such as Steppenwolf, Goodman Theatre, Actors Express, etc. His play “At […]
The Esteem Awards is a 501c3 organization which honors local and national organizations and individuals for their continued efforts in supporting the areas of entertainment, media, civil rights, social services, business and the arts. M. […]
By Kayla Thompson, Communities of Color Junior Associate GLAAD.org | April 29, 2022 In an industry that can be unforgiving and complicated to navigate for even the most seasoned professionals, many creatives in film, television, and media are […]
The Publishing Triangle presents its list of finalists for the 34th annual Triangle Awards. Winners will be announced virtually on Wednesday, May 11. These prizes, which honor the best LGBTQ fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and trans […]
By GLAAD | April 20, 2022 This piece was authored by Dana Levison. Film and television has a unique power to shift hearts and minds for the better when it comes to LGBTQ+ people. This year, we have […]
By GLAAD | April 18, 2022 And no, this isn’t another thinkpiece about the Oscars…the time has come for us to unpack harm and seek repair in the Film/TV industry. By: Contributing Writers, McKensie Mack & Elijah McKinnon […]
Photo Credits: Franco Washington The lyrics to a famous Michael Jackson song say something to the effect that if you’re looking to make a change in the world, you should start with the man in […]
It is always a pleasure to reach out and network with the many talented artists that make up the LGBTQ+ community. I was elated when I sent a message to Fernando Velez, Creator, Writer, Art […]
We had the privilege of chatting with the cast of the hit play, “When Boys Exhale,” by Black author and playwright Anthony Green. The play is inspired by the 1995 cult classic girl power flick […]
BOTL’D is a black LGBTQ+ owned ready to drink cocktail company. The firm was co-founded by boyfriends Stephan and Greg during the height of the pandemic in January 2021. BOTL’D’s artisanal, handcrafted cocktails are made […]
By GLAAD | April 7, 2022 Today in a bipartisan vote, the Senate confirmed the historic appointment of Ketanji Brown Jackson to be an associate justice of the United States Supreme Court. Jackson is the first Black woman to be […]
Chicago, April 7, 2022 – Today, we’re excited to announce that four organizations and fourteen individuals have been selected to be honored at the 15th Annual Esteem Awards. The Esteem Awards is a 501c3 organization. A committee of […]
By Serena Sonoma GLAAD.org | March 31, 2022 On this International Transgender Day of Visibility, GLAAD is honoring the exemplary work of trans-led organizations fighting harmful legislation on the ground by providing care to those who need it most. […]
Chicago, MARCH 31, 2022 – Today, PrideIndex.com™ announced that activist and comedian Sampson McCormick will be the featured entertainer at the 15th Annual Esteem Awards. “I am excited to announce the Esteem Awards will return to an […]
By Raina Deerwater, Entertainment Research & Analysis Manager GLAAD.org | March 27, 2022 The 94th annual Academy Awards were held tonight in Los Angeles, hosted by Regina Hall, Amy Schumer, and out comedian Wanda Sykes. Ariana DeBose made […]
Portrait Credit: Wardell Malloy Emil Wilbekin is a renowned journalist and humanitarian best known for his tenure at Vibe magazine, where he served as Editor-in-Chief. His flair for style, music, and pop culture won him […]
March 22, 2022 MEDIA CONTACTMark Sawchuk(415) 777-5455 ext. 8mark@glbthistory.org CyArk, Friends of the Lyon-Martin House and GLBT Historical Society Announce Virtual 3D Tour of San Francisco Lesbian Landmark San Francisco — Digital historic preservation firm CyArk, […]
March 17, 2022 – Hollywood, California – GALECA: The Society of LGBTQ Entertainment Critics announced the winners of its 13th Dorian Film Awards, again honoring movie content from mainstream to LGBTQIA+. To perhaps Sam Elliott’s […]
By GLAAD | March 17, 2022 On Tuesday, Idaho’s Senate Republicans rejected H.B. 675, which would have criminalized parents who seek gender-affirming treatment for their children, and the medical providers who treat them. The legislation would have made […]
2017 Chicago LGBTQ Hall of Fame inductee Keith Butler is recognized for the three-part movie “Kevin’s Room.” Butler played Kevin, a social worker, and leader of a support group that discusses issues around sexuality, AIDS/HIV, and […]
From LambdaLiterary.org Created over thirty years ago to recognize the crucial role LGBTQ writers play in shaping the world, the Lammys celebrate the very best in LGBTQ literature. Since the inception of the Lammys in […]
📽️Dear Film Lovers, Starting April 1, we’ll be accepting entries for our 28th Annual Black Harvest Film Festival, which will take place this year from November 4- 27! In the meantime, we hope you enjoy this pair of […]
By Kayla Thompson, Communities of Color Junior Associate GLAAD.org | March 11, 2022 Codi Keith Charles (all pronouns) is the Founder and Executive Director of Haus of McCoy, a queer and trans community center in Lawrence, Kansas. Haus […]
By Lana Leonard GLAAD.org | March 10, 2022 On Saturday the State Department urged US citizens to leave Russia immediately. The US stated that there would be little the US Embassy in Moscow could do for American citizens in the […]
By Jose Useche, Communications Coordinator GLAAD.org | March 9, 2022 Billy Porter and Zachary Quinto have joined the cast and respectively voice Randall and Barry Leibowitz-Jenkins, mixed-race adoptive parents to 14-year-old activist Maya Leibowitz-Jenkins, voiced by Keke […]
Media content:Nina Barrett, 847-977-4788barrett.nina@gmail.com 2022 Clarence Darrow ceremony to highlight efforts to transform criminal justice system CHICAGO — With its mission of bringing the spirit of famed attorney and social justice advocate Clarence Darrow to […]
It’s been a while since I have spoken with Wolfgang Busch, so I was not surprised to learn that he has kept busy doing what he does best – working on an epic documentary project. […]
From Lambda Literary In this 3-hour, two-day class led by Milo Todd, we’ll look at “good” messy queers, “bad” messy queers, stereotypes, redemption, interiority, and mainstream media representations.Along with a lecture segment, we’ll also take […]
Today, I am speaking with Tom Logan, CEO and founder of EBANMAN Inc., a lifestyle brand dedicated to enhancing the lives of Black gay men. According to its website, the firm’s name is derived from the West African […]
By mtrasandes GLAAD.org | February 27, 2022 “Pretty on the outside, scary on the inside” describes the sumptuous mountain lair, La Encantada, where a group of women vying to become Miss Mexico are taken in the new series Señorita […]
By Kayla Thompson, Communities of Color Junior Associate GLAAD.org | February 25, 2022 Penny and her family are back and prouder than ever as the new revival of Disney’s The Proud Family premiered publicly Wednesday, February 23, 17 […]
Influenced by homoerotic artist Belasco, Blake Gildaphish, and Alessandro Flores, Jason Watler (@artofjae_ on Instagram) hopes to become a household name. The self-taught artist started at an early age when his brother and cousin refused […]
Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Antonio Driver, Executive Director of SpeakOut, a Washington DC-based nonprofit community engagement organization representing more than 6,000 same-gender-loving (SGL) men and women of color. Since its inception […]
Today, I am speaking with Rasheed Newson, author, screenwriter, and co-showrunner for the new Peacock original series, “Bel-Air,” a contemporary dramatic reimagining of the beloved 90s NBC sitcom, “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” Rasheed grew […]
IT’S OUT! “Love Overdue” is finally out just in time for Valentine’s Day. I wrote, “Love Overdue” over 10 years ago for the play Love’s Gonna Get You – a romantic comedy by James and Michelle Woodson. […]
By Serena Sonoma GLAAD.org | February 9, 2022 Whether in fashion and cosmetics or tech and business Black Queer folks have never lacked a sense of creativity or ingenuity. Today we celebrate Black Queer entrepreneurs who are taking […]
By Jeffrey Masters, Guest Contributor of GLAAD.org | February 8, 2022 “I just needed someone to come and tell me that it was OK, that there was nothing wrong with me. And eventually, I got that message. […]
I first became acquainted with Michelle E. Brown over a decade ago when I interviewed her to discuss her work. Since then, Michelle has been honored twice with our Esteem Award for Outstanding Service Female […]
By Solby Lim GLAAD.org | February 4, 2022 The opening ceremony for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics commenced early this morning, with 84 countries and over 2,800 athletes competing for a medal in the Winter Games. At least […]
PrideIndex/TheEsteemAwards is seeking to recognize BIPOC and QTPOC individuals and organizations. Nominees should have made some substantial contributions to their communities in the fields of entertainment, politics, health, journalism, the arts, and other areas. The […]
By Michelle Lagos GLAAD.org | February 1, 2022 LGBTQ+ artists making waves in the Latin music industry The Lo Nuestro Awards, presented by Univision, has announced its 2022 nomination lineup. With nearly 35 categories this year, the representation of LGBTQ+ […]
coming soon Activist Karen Kendra Holmes
By GLAAD.org | January 21, 2022 Photo Credit: White House Flickr As President Joe Biden and Vice President Harris begin their second year in office, today GLAAD marks the 100th entry in the GLAAD Biden Accountability Tracker, an […]
From Lambda Literary Every year, Lambda administers a number of cash awards for LGBTQ+ authors in varying stages of their careers. In 2022, we are delighted to offer five of these prizes, including the new […]
PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 10, 2022 Contact: Samantha O’Neil Samantha@TCRStrategies.com Send ‘Love by FRUITLOOTS’ and Support LGBTQ+, AAPI, Black and Female-Founded Businesses this Valentine’s Day Bravo TV ‘Matchmaker’ Elevates Minority-Owned Brands with Curated […]
By | January 10, 2022 By GLAAD.org Voting rights legislation has stalled in the U.S. Senate, with Republicans using the filibuster to block debate. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has promised to make a rules change to […]
Photo Credit: SisTers PGH/Facebook By Serena Sonoma | January 7, 2022 New Year’s Day 2022, a time when people make new resolutions and are ready for a fresh start has already marked the first report of a Black transgender […]
By GLAAD.org GLAAD is monitoring the Biden administration’s executive orders, legislative support, speeches and nominations that affect LGBTQ people and rights. 01.05.2022 Health and Human Services proposes rule change to reinstate and expand protections against discrimination based on […]
Coming Soon an Interview of Hung Up Podcast creator Eric Cole. Dial in with Systems Analyst & Tennis Athlete Eric Cole as he tackles society & culture from a Black Queer perspective. I interview artist, […]
Ty Mixx @ The GENERATOR – Chicago 1995 Photo Courtesy of Tyrone Mixx DJ Tyrone Mixx is synonymous with the wonder years of Chicago’s black gay club scene. He was right there during House music’s […]
By Serena Sonoma GLAAD.org | December 15, 2021 As the world marks 40 years of the first HIV cases to be diagnosed, an urgent new campaign and storytelling initiative is focusing attention on living with HIV and reforming […]
By Louise Prollamante, Executive Assistant GLAAD.org | December 14, 2021 Film Independent has released its list of nominees for the 2022 Independent (Indie) Spirit Awards in film and television and there’s no shortage of amazing LGBTQ-inclusive names amongst those being honored this […]
Cover Photography and Styling by Jerris Madison The dramatic scripted series, Losing Hope touches on several themes from interracial dating, racism, family issues, and depression. The series explores the lives of African American, Latino, multiracial, homosexual, sexually […]
The 6th Annual POZ Awards, spotlighting the best of HIV in media and culture were announced. The POZ editorial staff selects the nominees, but POZ readers choose the winners. Eligible nominees were active or were […]
By Solby Lim GLAAD.org | December 10, 2021 Photo Credit: Student at Al-Fatah School, the only Quran school in Indonesia for transgender Muslims. Courtesy of Vice News On December 8, 2021, the latest episode of Vice’s new […]
By Louise Prollamante, Executive Assistant GLAAD.org | December 9, 2021 The 2022 Sundance Film Festival has released its 2022 lineup, featuring entries in its Feature Films and Indie Episodic programs, and, once again, there are several LGBTQ+ films premiering in Park […]
The Bayard Rustin Center for Social Justice, a community activist center, educational bridge, & dedicated safe-space welcomed Michelle Elizabeth Brown to its Board of Directors this week. Straight outta’ greater Detroit, Michelle is a Public Speaker, […]
By GLAAD.org | December 8, 2021 GLAAD, the world’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) media advocacy organization, is responding to a powerful statement of support against efforts to ban LGBTQ-inclusive books and books about […]
By Annalysse Mason, Communications Intern GLAAD.org | December 1, 2021 The American Ballet Theater celebrated LGBTQ History Month by hosting its first-ever Pride Nights on October 27 and October 30. The inaugural events featured a lobby photo exhibition […]
Mel Lennon (pronounced melanin) is a rapper, producer, and singer-songwriter. The Germany born-New York resident has been writing songs since he was in middle school. “When I was six years old, my mom put me […]
Grammy Photo courtesy of The Recording Academy By Jeremy Blacklow, Director of Entertainment Media GLAAD.org | November 23, 2021 Lil Nas X, Brandi Carlile, and Lady Gaga were the most nominated LGBTQ artists for the 64th Annual […]
By GLAAD.org | November 20, 2021 We remember the names of the transgender people whose lives have been lost to anti-trangender violence over the years and continue to demand increased and accurate media coverage of transgender people […]
CHICAGO, IL (November 18, 2021) – The 8th Annual Black Alphabet Film Festival (BAFF) announced today winners of the premiere Black LGBTQ/SGL visual arts festival’s Black Alphabet Audience Award winners. The 2021 award winners are […]
By GLAAD.org | November 17, 2021 In honor of Trans Awareness Week: Books, movies and more that tell life stories of transgender people Latinx and/or in Spanish Every year between November 13 – 19, people and organizations […]
By GLAAD | November 16, 2021 As part of Transgender Awareness Week, GLAAD is elevating transgender and gender nonconforming advocates who are working for safety and acceptance in their local communities. Morgan Sherm is a veteran radio producer […]
The newly elected, first out LGBTQ county chair in the state discusses his agenda Ken Mejia-Beal is an activist advocating on behalf of the working class. He has spent most of his career helping others. […]
We present Dr. Kevin McGruder, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Associate Professor of History at Antioch College. Dr. McGruder is the author of Philip Payton: The Father of Black Harlem, published by Columbia University Press […]
Recently we had the pleasure of talking to author Joe Okonkwo. Joe’s short stories have appeared in The Piltdown Review, The New Engagement, Storychord, Penumbra, Promethean, Shotgun Honey, Love Stories from Africa, Best Gay Stories 2015, and Strength. Joe served as Prose Editor for Newtown […]
By Annalysse Mason, Communications Intern GLAAD.org | November 9, 2021 Intersex Awareness Day, a day to celebrate visibility and highlight the issues facing intersex persons worldwide, was observed on Tuesday, October 26, 2021. Here’s a look at what […]
I first became familiar with the work of author and publisher Artavius Veasey when I came across an Instagram post on Esteem Award winner Gee Smalls of Love Works, by Juan and Gee. The article […]
Queer & Authentic: My Name Is…My Pronouns Are The 1st episodes, “My Name Is…My Pronouns Are” seeks to demystify the Black Queer Community. Authors Dr. Derrick Tennial and John Collins starts Indiegogo fund to finance […]
By Mary Emily O’Hara, Rapid Response Manager GLAAD.org | November 3, 2021 This week’s Election Day results brought dismay to some, but there are bright spots among the significant losses. As Glenn Youngkin (whose record includes opposition to both […]
Still from Queer Harlem Renaissance : A Prospectus (prod. by Shoga Films) (c) Robert Phillipson From Shoga Films monthly newsletter Autumn in New York We’ve been talking about the Queer Harlem Renaissance for years. Now, […]
Due to the pandemic, the San Francisco Transgender Film Festival (SFTFF) is returning as an online event. On Nov. 11-14, SFTFF will showcase 42 feature-length and short films in seven different programs promoting the trans-gender […]
November 3, 2021 Contact:Spencer HarveyCommunications Manager, GLAADsharvey@glaad.org This year’s study found that non-LGBTQ people are more aware of the LGBTQ community being multifaceted, that there are more than two genders, and that trans and nonbinary […]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEOctober 23, 2021MEDIA CONTACT:Karen Durhamkcdcomm@gmail.com773-386-6255 CHICAGO—In a collaborative re-envisioning of the 28th Annual Chicago Underground Film Festival (CUFF)—the world’s longest-running underground film festival—Full Spectrum Features (FSF) is the official presenter of CUFF this […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES b. August 28, 1959 “We have to significantly change our practices so that we can create an inclusive capitalism that works for everyone.” Darren Walker is the president of the Ford […]
Talking to Anna DeShawn is like getting the teas from an enterprising BFF. She’ll make you laugh, cry and leave the conversation being proud of what’s next to come from her. The Chicago born activist […]
Photo Credit © MARY L. TRUMP b. May 3, 1965 “Donald … destroyed my father. I can’t let him destroy my country.” Mary L. Trump is a psychologist, an author and a political figure famous for […]
By jlindholm GLAAD.org | October 29, 2021 Election day is coming up this Tuesday, November 2nd. It is an important opportunity to turn out and stand up for the LGBTQ community. LGBTQ rights and the future of the […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES b. March 12, 1988 “In politics, it’s important to be decisive, to take a stand, which is what I do.” Ritchie Torres is the first Afro-Latinx U.S. congressman. He represents New […]
By Mauricio Montes GLAAD.org | October 28, 2021 The GuadaLAjara Film Festival (GLAFF) celebrates the best of Latin American cinema while providing a platform for emerging LGBTQ+ and BIPOC talent and creators! GLAFF takes place November 4-6, 2021 in Downtown Los […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES b. December 10, 1960 “I will continue to fight for equality in Congress, as all Americans deserve to be treated equally under the law.” A Japanese-American, U.S. Representative Mark Takano is […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES b. November 16, 1999 “If I say that I’m a lesbian, it will have a big impact on the LGBTQ community back in Burma.” Swe Zin Htet is a Burmese model […]
ONE Archives Foundation announces two new webinars on the teaching of LGBTQ history in K-12 classrooms to take place this November. These webinars are geared towards K-12 educators, but all are welcome. Join us for ONE Archives Foundation’s and Our […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES b. December 5, 1932 d. May 9, 2020 “Elvis may be the King of Rock and Roll, but I am the Queen.” Richard Penniman, “Little Richard,” was a musical pioneer of […]
Photo Credit © WIKIPEDIA b. April 4, 1922 d. December 30, 1997 “It would be unfair of me not to tell you, my name is going to head the list.” Nell Louise “Johnnie” Phelps was a […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES b. December 1959 “If we are to be the future, then we have to take the future in our own hands.” Henry Reuben Muñoz III is an architectural designer, an activist […]
AIMEE VICTORIA is a short film birthed and created remotely during the Covid-19 lockdown of 2020. It was inspired by true stories of relationships from disabled and LGBTQ+ people whose stories rarely make it to the […]
Photo Credit © JAVIER MORGADO b. November 11, 1977 “As Americans we should all share one dream … that we should all enjoy the same rights as everybody else.” Javier Morgado is a journalist and the […]
Photo credit: Lori Sapio Melissa DuPrey is a multi-talented artist born and raised in Chicago’s Humboldt Park. She earned a double Bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston. Melissa returned to Chicago, where she joined […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES b. December 1, 1985 “I’ve never lived my life in a binary way.” Janelle Monáe is an eight-time Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter and an award-winning actor and activist. Known for her […]
By Cyn Gomez GLAAD.org October 21, 2021 Spirit Day is an internationally recognized day where queer folks and their allies stand together against hate and bullying that countless young LGBTQ+ students endure every day. Some […]
Photo Credit © SHANNON MINTER b. February 14, 1961 “This is how we win; not by being confrontational but by showing people we want to contribute to the community” Shannon Minter is a groundbreaking transgender civil […]
Photo Credit: movie still from PEACE. In 2016 Adomako Aman’s first film, “DANCING IN THE DARK,” captivated audiences everywhere by exploring the African American and Latinx gay club scene. Since then, he has continued his […]
Photo Credit © STACEY MILBERN b. May 19, 1987 d. May 19, 2020 “I would want people with disabilities 20 years from now to not think that they’re broken.” Stacey Park Milbern was a civil rights […]
By Solby Lim By GLAAD.org | October 19, 2021 On October 14, streaming platform Afridocs welcomed Kenyan documentary I Am Samuel to their roster, making the film available to watch for free across Africa. I Am Samuel tells the story of Samuel, a gay […]
Photo Credit © WIKIPEDIA b. September 15, 1889 d. May 22, 1948 “If a man is not faithful to his own individuality, he cannot be loyal to anything.” Claude McKay was a prominent bisexual Jamaican poet […]
Virtual awards event on November 1 is FREE for the public to attend via YouTube and includes world premiere performances by past award winnersPlus, major expansion to signature artist-to-artist grant program “Make a Wave” announced […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES b. May 16, 1919 d. February 4, 1987 “Nakedness makes us democratic; adornment makes us individuals.” Liberace was a world-class pianist and showman, as famous for his flamboyant wardrobe and […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES b. January 19, 1943 d. October 4, 1970 “Don’t compromise yourself. It’s all you’ve got.” Janis Joplin was a trailblazing 1960s blues-rock singer and songwriter. Celebrated for her raw, […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES b. August 13, 1977 “America is progressing towards a stronger, more inclusive future — and I know women of color are a driving force in that evolution.” An immigrant, an […]
When you think of the House of Ninja, images of its iconic founder Willi instantly come to mind. His vogue style was the right mixture of contortionism meets precision; it put him in a class […]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 15, 2021 MEDIA CONTACT: Lori Hile 773-746-5127 lhile@saic.edu Chicago—The School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s Gene Siskel Film Center is pleased to announce the full festival schedule for its 27th […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES April 7, 1951 “Truth is not the enemy, and whatever does not kill us sets us free.” Janis Ian is a folk singer-songwriter and lifelong activist. She has won three […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES b. July 10, 1931 d. December 26, 2019 “Writing for me is like putting together a jigsaw puzzle.” Gerald “Jerry” Herman was an openly gay Broadway composer and lyricist best […]
The Queens’ English, The LGBTQIA+ Dictionary of Lingo and Colloquial Phrases is an examination of the American LGBTQ+ culture, including the impact of the Harlem Renaissance on African American gay culture and more. “Who is […]
Photo Credit © BOB HATTOY b. November 1, 1950 d. March 4, 2007 “Mr. President, your family has AIDS … and you are doing nothing about it.” Bob Hattoy was a pioneering HIV/AIDS, LGBT rights […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES b. March 11, 1972 “This is the gay agenda: equality. Not special rights, but the rights that are already written by [our Founding Fathers].” Elzie Lee “LZ” Granderson is a […]
Photo Credit © CREATIVE COMMONS b. July 26, 1932 d. November 3, 2005 “I’m an Indian painting Indians, and if it worked out for me, then it’s all well and good.” Rudolph Carl (R.C.) Gorman […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES “It pays not to quit when you want something. You have to keep working until you get it.” Althea Garrison was the first elected transgender state legislator in the United […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES “In both my professional and personal life, it has always been important to me to represent our community in a positive manner.” Carlos Elizondo is the Biden administration’s White House […]
Photo Credit © MSS 113, ALICE DUNBAR-NELSON PAPERS, SPECIAL COLLECTIONS, UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE LIBRARY, MUSEUMS AND PRESS, NEWARK, DE. b. July 19, 1875 d. September 18, 1935 “Unwittingly, you’ve made me dream / Of violets, […]
Photo Credit © ASHLEY DIAMOND b. 1985 “While it seems like the world is so obsessed with ‘Orange Is the New Black,’ I’m living it.” Ashley Diamond is a transgender prisoners’ rights activist. In 2016 she […]
Photo Credit © GETTY IMAGES b. August 21, 1935 d. March 7, 2020 “I had no agenda in writing this play except expressing myself.” Mart Crowley was a gay American playwright famous for “The Boys in […]
“I am the youngest person in this race by 20 years. So I have the Institutional Knowledge of the history of this city; a real, emotional connection to the city as a 40+ year resident; […]
Photo Credit © OFFICE OF CONGRESSMAN CICILLINE b. July 15, 1961 “The American people deserve to know who will stand up and speak out for those on the margins of society.” David N. Cicilline is a […]
Photo Credit © Wikipedia b. March 1, 1810d. October 17, 1849 “Sometimes I can only groan, suffer, and pour out my despair at the piano!” Frédéric Chopin was a famous Polish French pianist and composer of […]
Teqen Sjoberg Zéa-Aida is among the openly LGBTQ individuals aiming to represent Ward 7 at Minneapolis City Council. Teqen ran for this seat before in November 2017. He is a Public Policy and Leadership Fellow of
