HEADLINES
Almost 10% of Americans Now Identify as LGBTQ+:
New data reveals that more adults in the US than ever before identify as LGBTQ+, with bisexual individuals making up the largest segment.
Report: Russia Planning to Compile Database of LGBTQ Citizens:
In a further escalation of its persecution of LGBTQ people, Russia is reportedly considering compiling a database to monitor queer citizens.
Justice Delayed: Johannesburg Grindr Gang Trial Postponed:
The long-awaited start of the trial of seven alleged members of the Grindr gang syndicate has been postponed, seemingly due to legal incompetence.
US Funding Remains Frozen for Many Life-Saving Services:
Despite waivers, court judgments and assurances from the embassy, USAID funding for projects that provide HIV medication has not resumed.
Faith and Inclusion: The Priest Championing LGBTQIA+ Rights in Malawi:
Father Martin Kalimbe from Blantyre is a bold and unwavering advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in Malawi’s religious landscape.
Muhsin Hendricks’ Murder: Ramaphosa Calls for Justice:
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed concern that the murder of gay Imam Muhsin Hendricks may have been motivated by hate.
Muslim Judicial Council Condemns Imam Muhsin Hendricks’ Murder:
Despite issuing an anti-LGBTQ fatwa in 2022, the Muslim Judicial Council has spoken out against the murder of gay Imam Muhsin Hendricks.
“A Martyr for Love, Justice, and Peace”: Imam Muhsin Hendricks Honoured:
Civil society organisations, queer religious groups, LGBTIQ+ leaders, and the SA Human Rights Commission honour the life of Muhsin Hendricks.
Horror as Muhsin Hendricks, “World’s First Gay Imam,” Assassinated in Gqeberha:
South Africa’s LGBTQ+ community is in shock after the assassination of Cape Town’s Muhsin Hendricks, known as the world’s first out gay imam.
Fury as Trans and Queer People Erased from Stonewall Monument Website:
America’s National Park Service is under fire for removing references to trans and queer people from its page for the Stonewall Monument.
A Matter of Consent: 1 in 5 LGBTQ+ People Sexually Assaulted in LGBTQ+ Venues:
An alarmingly high number of LGBTQ+ people in the UK have experienced sexual assault in spaces meant to be safe for the queer community.
Trump’s Foreign Aid Freeze Leaves South Africa’s Trans Community in Crisis:
Trump’s foreign aid freeze leaves South Africa’s trans community without access to lifesaving healthcare, leaving thousands in crisis.
No Matter What You Call it, David’s Love for Jonathan is One of the Bible’s Most Beautiful:
One of the greatest loves in the Bible is the intense devotion between the warrior Jonathan and David, who later became king of Israel.
International Criminal Court Recognises LGBTQI+ Persecution in Landmark Case:
In a historic first, the International Criminal Court has acknowledged LGBTQI+ individuals as victims of persecution.
Google Calendar Removes Pride Month Listing:
Seemingly in an effort to appease the Trump administration, Google has removed default calendar entries for commemorations such as Pride Month.
Outcry Over Transgender CrossFit Games Exclusion:
Transgender CrossFit enthusiasts are appalled by the organisation’s new discriminatory transgender participation policy for its annual Games.
Indonesia: 56 Arrested in Raid on “Same-Sex Party”:
Authorities in Indonesia continue to crackdown on LGBTQ+ individuals using anti-pornography laws to violate their right to privacy.
Analysis: Trump Has Stopped Aid to South Africa, Endangering Thousands of Lives:
US President Donald Trump issued an executive order on Friday halting aid to South Africa, which could affect the country's HIV programme.
Tunisia: LGBTI Community Under Fire Amid Wave of Arrests:
Dozens of LGBTI people have been arrested across Tunisia in what’s been described as a severe crackdown on the country’s queer community.
President Ramaphosa Affirms LGBTQI+ Rights in SONA:
Delivering his SONA on Thursday, President Ramaphosa emphasised that South Africa must stay true to its values, including LGBTQI+ equality.