The “Rugrats” reboot premieres on Paramount+ on Thursday, featuring one major update to the cast of ankle-biters and their parents. If you ask some fans, however, the show’s creators are merely confirming what viewers have already known for years.
The character Betty DeVille, mother to twins Phil and Lil, is openly gay in the new series. She is even voiced by a queer actor, Natalie Morales.
“Anyone who watched the original show may have had an inkling Betty was a member of the alphabet mafia,” Morales said in a statement to The A.V. Club.
In the beloved Nickelodeon series’ original incarnation (which ran from 1991 to 2004), Betty was animated wearing a sweatband and funky jewelry paired with a baggy purple sweatshirt with the female sign embossed over it. In the 2021 update, she has changed the symbol on the sweatshirt to reflect her zodiac sign, which is Gemini.
Morales explained that the queer representation of her character goes deeper than the astrology shoutout.
“Betty is a single mom with her own business who has twins and still has time to hang out with her friends and her community,” she said. “And I think it’s just so great because examples of living your life happily and healthily as an out queer person is just such a beacon for young queer people who may not have examples of that.”
Media representation is a powerful tool for helping people to learn more about their own identities, something that Morales noted can begin as early as childhood on shows as silly and fun as “Rugrats.”
“And yeah, Betty is a fictional cartoon, but even cartoons were hugely influential for me as a kid and if I’d been watching ‘Rugrats’ and seen Betty casually talking about her ex-girlfriend, I think at least a part of me would have felt like things might be okay in the future.”
The fictional character’s coming out was not the revelation the reboot’s creators thought it would be. Just ask the scores of millennials and “zillennials” weighing in on Twitter.
I was today years old when I learned that Betty from Rugrats wasn’t always gay https://t.co/NUoHvJoFNX
You CANNOT change my mind that Betty from rugrats is just a queer woman in a hetero presenting relationship that didn’t make her any less the queer ass woman she is.
That bitch walked. She strutted that runway momma.
Dublin, May 28, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The “The Global Market for Electron Microscopes 2021-2031” report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com’s offering. Future research and development needs are dependent upon the capacity of instrumentation to measure, sense, fabricate, and manipulate matter at the nanoscale. Electron microscopy has the advantage over other characterisation techniques (e.g., bulk spectroscopy or electrical testing) in that it is descriptive, producing images of objects that are directly related to their structure, morphology, and composition, and hence it directly uncovers spatial heterogeneities. This is crucial in semiconductors manufacturing and advanced technology industrial R&D. In addition to the need for ultra-high-resolution imaging, demand for high-precision prior sample processing and high sensitivity electron microscopes has grown in fields including the environment and new energy, new materials, and life sciences The Global Market for Electron Microscopes 2021-2031 presents an in-depth analysis of the electron microscopes market by products, revenues, markets and companies. This report includes electron microscopes used in semiconductors, materials and nanomaterials research, manufacturing and process industries, pharmaceutical and biotechnology, clinical and diagnostic, and other industries. The Global Market for Electron Microscopes 2021-2031 covers electron microscope equipment manufacturers and suppliers based on their product portfolios, recent developments and core strategies. The electron microscope market addressed in this report has been analyzed for the four main global areas of North America, Europe, Asia and ROW. Companies profiled in the report include Carl Zeiss, Hitachi High-Technologies, Tescan, JEOL Ltd., and Thermo Fisher Scientific. Report Includes: An overview of the global market for electron microscopes.Analysis of the transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and dual beam markets through 2031 including unit sales, and conservative and optimistic revenue estimates.Analyses of global market trends.Discussion of key market participants, extensive product segments, supporting technologies, trends and market dynamics and geographic trends.Evaluation of the market by end users.Comprehensive company profiles for all companies in the electron microscope market. Key Topics Covered: 1 RESEARCH SCOPE AND METHODOLOGY1.1 Report scope1.2 Research methodology2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY2.1 Market drivers and trends in electron microscopes2.1.1 Trends in 20202.2 Revenues and sales (Electron Microscopes) 2028-20312.2.1 Semiconductors2.2.2 Life and health sciences2.2.3 Materials and nanomaterials research2.2.4 Regional markets2.3 Competition3 THE GLOBAL SCANNING PROBE MICROSCOPES MARKET3.1 Market structure3.2 Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEM)3.2.1 SEM key players3.2.2 Bench/tabletop SEMs3.2.3 Prices3.2.3.1 Non-Analytical Scanning Electron Microscope Unit Sales3.2.3.2 Analytical Scanning Electron Microscope Unit Sales3.2.4 Market share3.3 Transmission Electron Microscopes (TEM)3.3.1 TEM producers3.3.2 Prices3.3.3 The global market3.4 Dual Beam instruments (FIB-SEM)3.4.1 Unit sales 2010-20313.4.2 Global revenues 2010-20313.5 Cryo-TEM4 ELECTRON MICROSCOPES MARKET, BY REGION4.1 North America4.2 Asia4.3 Europe4.4 Rest of the World5 END USERS MARKETS FOR ELECTRON MICROSCOPES5.1 Semiconductors and electronics market5.1.1 Trends5.1.2 Revenues 2010-20315.2 Materials and nanomaterials research5.2.1 Global market5.2.2 Revenues 2010-20315.3 Life sciences market5.3.1 Global market5.3.2 EM producers in the life sciences market5.3.3 Revenues 2010-20316 ELECTRON MICROSCOPE COMPANY PROFILES For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/df2mk0 CONTACT: CONTACT: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900
Last year, COVID-19 put a big damper on Pride Month festivities, but this season, there’s cause to celebrate in more ways than one and many major retailers are getting in on the action.
While it’s customary for Pride-themed merchandise to spike during the month of June—a practice that’s often criticized and compared to pinkwashing—there’s still tremendous value that can come from rocking rainbows during this time of year, as it helps increase visibility and may lend support and encouragement to others within the LGBTQ community who are still exploring their identities.
Popular brands like Apple, Fossil, Reebok and others often dedicate huge resources during Pride Month to LGBTQ nonprofit organizations (among them, The Trevor Project, GLSEN and additional groups), which means you could be helping others gain access to valuable resources, too.
Here are 40 places (including small and large businesses) to consider shopping for Pride 2021, and which may help you uncover new ways to celebrate love, diversity and inclusivity during this joyful season.
This QBIPOC shop is based out of Los Angeles and offers affordable apparel and accessories year-round that celebrate the LGBTQ community. Not only that, but it hosts a variety of classes, workshops, and events aimed at promoting inclusivity and celebrating the artistic projects of community members, and accepts direct donations, which go to benefit these works.
Adidas has a long history of celebrating Pride by dropping a new shoe collection, and this year is no exception. The retailer just released Love Unites, which features an assortment of Pride-themed footwear, plus apparel and accessories. Although not tied to purchase sales from the collection, Adidas is actively supporting Athlete Ally, an organization that advocates for LGBTQ inclusion in sports.
In support of the LGBTQ community, Apple has released two new Apple Watch Pride bands this year, as well as a new Pride watch face for users. The brand also supports a number of LGBTQ advocacy organizations, including Encircle (which offers safe spaces for LGBTQ youth, young adults and families), the National Center for Transgender Equality (which is committed to social justice advocacy for transgender humans) and others.
Banana Republic’s Pride 2021 features 17 limited-edition pieces, including sweatshirts, shorts, socks and more. The brand has an ongoing partnership with The United Nations Foundation in support of the UN Free and Equal Campaign (UNFE) for LGBTQ equality, and has made a $60,000 donation for 2021. Over the past four years, Banana Republic has donated $240,000 to UNFE.
This year, Bath & Body Works is donating $1 million to support the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, which is doing work to help the LGBTQ community through a variety of initiatives, aimed at improve transgender rights, promoting workplace equality, and helping children and families. You can shop the brand’s Love Always Wins collection for an assortment of rainbow-centric candles, soaps, mists, and more.
In 2020, makeup and skincare brand Bliss began a partnership with The Trevor Project, the world’s largest LGBTQ suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for at-risk youth. In addition to pledging $150,000, the brand is donating 100% of net proceeds (up to $40,000) from the limited-edition Pride Makeup Melt wipes (as well as the classic version) in support of The Trevor Project’s work.
Bombas socks are great if you’re searching for soft, slightly compressive options. Right now, you can shop an assortment of Pride flag-inspired socks, underwear and more at this retailer. Additionally, for every pair you purchase, Bombas will donate a pair to those in need through Casa Ruby, a Washington DC-based multicultural and bilingual organization offering social services and LGBTQ safe spaces, as well as the Transgender Resource Center of New Mexico and Mozaic, which offers community health resources to transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary BIPOC humans between the ages of 13 to 29.
This Colorado-based snack brand is offering a special Pride-themed bar this year, and using it as an opportunity to showcase work from LGBTQ artists Ludi Leiva, Shanee Benjamin and Cheyne Gallarde. All proceeds from the bar go to benefit Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), an organization dedicated to LGBTQ people, allies, and families alike, and The Center on Colfax, which supports the LGBTQ community within Colorado.
Interested in supporting the LGBTQ community around the world? Choose Love is an international store and nonprofit that offers apparel, emergency-preparedness gear and more, and proceeds from their LGBTQ gift go to benefit shelters, legal support and community aid groups for community members in need.
This year’s Pride collection at Converse draws inspiration from five LGBTQ members of the brand’s All-Stars global community, who worked with artists to create the colorful footwear on display from it. Since 2015, the brand has donated more than $1.3 million in support of local and international LGBTQ organizations, and this year, is giving a portion of the proceeds from the Pride collection to the It Gets Better Project, which creates programs to help empower LGBTQ youth.
Love Disney and showing your support for the LGBTQ community? The Rainbow Disney collection offers an assortment of vibrant face masks, T-shirts, stuffed animals, and more that could be great for the whole family. The brand has also pledged to support a variety of domestic and international LGBTQ organizations, including ARELAS, a Spanish association offering resources to trans youth, as well as Nijiiro Diversity, a nonprofit organization in Japan focused on reducing LGBTQ discrimination in the workplace, and others.
Dr. Martens’ 1461 boots are embroidered this year with a rainbow flag on the heel, rainbow laces, and heel loops, all of which can help you rock out this year for Pride in style. You can also shop rainbow socks and laces from the brand. As in previous years, Dr. Martens is working with The Trevor Project, and is donating $100,000 to the organization. Additionally, the brand will carry on a year-round partnership, to help provide resources to the community.
As one of the best places to buy eyewear online. EyeBuyDirect offers a range of options. For Pride 2021, the brand has partnered with singer and LGBTQ ally Lele Pons to create new rainbow-colored frames and is donating all proceeds (up to $50,000) to The Trevor Project. The collection is also part of the brand’s Buy 1, Give 1 program, which allows shoppers to donate a pair of glasses with every purchase to someone in need around the world.
This famous watch brand has just launched a limited-edition Pride collection, featuring the popular Minimalist 40mm watch and an assortment of limited-edition indexes inspired by the rainbow flag, as well as 10 strap options, so folks can rock their pride their own way. Additionally, 100% of the proceeds go to benefit the Trevor Fund.
This shop is also committed to positive change through community-centered initiatives, and has sponsored more than 100 LGBTQ organizations and raised more than $115,000 for artists and partner organizations over the past three years. Additionally, gc2b has donated more than 6,000 binders to those in need through its donation program, so this could be a great place to shop for Pride 2021, especially if you grab one of the brand’s special Pride-themed binders.
Featuring designs from artists Star Casimir, Rachel Lindset, and Abayomi “AC” Carey (all members of Gap Inc.’s LGBTQ employee resource group), the Gap Collective Pride collection includes T-shirts, hoodies, socks and more for all ages. The brand is also donating $50,000 this season to the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), an LGBTQ media advocacy organization.
Based out of Spokane, Washington, The Glow Co. is a queer-owned shop that makes soy wax candles and ships all packages in containers that are biodegradable or reusable. Featuring a variety of spring scents, such as lilac, kitchen garden and blood orange sangria, this shop’s offerings could be a great investment if you’re looking for new candles to try out.
With 100% of the proceeds set to benefit The Trevor Project, Good Dye Young (GDY) is helping to celebrate this year with a special candle. Formulated to mimic the scent of the brand’s popular haircare, the candle will launch on June 1 and offers top notes of bergamot, meaning it could be a great option for candle lovers.
Right now at Harry’s, you can grab a limited-edition razor, shaving kit and more, with art from Zipeng Zhu. As in previous years, 100% of the profits from this set will go to benefit The Trevor Project.
JOANN is partnering with GLSEN, a national education program dedicated to ensuring safe schools for queer youth, for Pride 2021. As part of the celebration, the store is offering custom fabrics, accessories and more that can be great for everything from festivals to private, socially distanced gatherings. The retailer is also donating $25,000 to GLSEN and an assortment of items (plus $5,000) to the LGBTQ Center of Greater Cleveland, which helps community members in the Ohio area.
Available June 1, the “Everyone is Awesome” LEGO set celebrates diversity and features 11 mini-figures, all rocking their own unique looks. This 346-piece model will be available online and in stores and could be a fun option for kids and LEGO lovers of all ages. The brand also has partnerships with organizations like Stonewall, which helps fund other LGBTQ organizations and offers grants and scholarships, as well as Workplace Pride and Open for Business, which strive toward LGBTQ inclusivity in the workplace and in society.
22. MAC Cosmetics
MAC Cosmetics has a long history of supporting the LGBTQ community, even beyond Pride month. All proceeds from the brand’s iconic Viva Glam line—which launched in 1994 and all proceeds of which were initially donated to help fight HIV/AIDS—go to benefit the Mac Viva Glam Fund and has helped raise more than $500 million worldwide.
Set to launch June 1 (although some pieces are already available), Madewell’s collection with artist Lisa Congdon features a variety of colorful T-shirts, jeans, and posters, so shoppers who love this fashion-forward retailer to show off their Pride as well. Half of the proceeds from the collection will go to benefit the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which helps to advocate for LGBTQ equal rights and fight against discrimination.
Native makes all-natural deodorant, and this year for Pride, the brand is partnering with The LGBT Asylum Project, a nonprofit organization which aims to help 500 LGBTQ asylum seekers gain accessible legal representation. The brand is donating $10,000 to help the cause and is also offering customers the chance to save 20% off their next order by emailing a copy of a donation receipt to any nonprofit that supports the LGBTQ community to support@nativecos.com.
Olay is celebrating Pride 2021 with a limited-edition jar of the popular Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream, along with two gift sets. The brand is also donating $75,000 to The Trevor Project and lending support to the Can’t Cancel Pride, a virtual streaming event.
26. Outplay
For gender-affirming swimwear, Outplay is a great place to shop, offering binders with a range of compression fits, board shorts, and more to suit those in the LGBTQ community. You can shop the brand’s Pride collection right now and explore new ways to show your support, or consider its sportswear collection, which boasts a mix of T-shirts, sports bras, pants, and other apparel.
Color Outside the Lines is a new underwear collection from Parade, which features more than 130 mix-and-match options for undergarments. In addition, the brand is donating 2,000 pairs of underwear to five LGBTQ centers, including the Ali Forney Center, a nonprofit offering shelter and healthcare services to LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness.
PopSockets are a cute but useful accessory that can help you grip your phone with greater ease. For Pride 2021, the brand is offering multiple rainbow-themed options to choose from. Plus, 50% of every sale from June 1 to June 30 will go to benefit The Trevor Project.
Just in time for Pride 2021, Reebok’s latest collection celebrating the LGBTQ community features a vibrant assortment of Pride-inspired footwear and apparel. The items were designed by Colorful Soles, the brand’s LGBTQ employee community, which also partnered with the legendary House of Ninja (spotlighted in the iconic documentary, Paris is Burning. In addition, Reebok is donating $75,000 to the Sylvia Rivera Law Project, which advocates for affirming access to social, health and legal services for those of all gender identity and expression.
This year, Skagen—maker of classic watches—is partnering with InterPride and donating $25,000 to support its mission of helping the LGBTQ community on an international level. Inspired by the Pride and transgender flags, the Aaren Pride collection by Skagen features two limited edition styles.
Specializing in home and apparel, SUAY Sew Shop is a queer-owned and operated brand that creates products from a combination of post-consumer waste and deadstock fabric. For Pride 2021, it’s donating 10% of all pillow sales to support the Seeding Sovereignty Ancestral Acres Farm and Garden, which helps to address food scarcity issues and boost community farm and garden initiatives for Black and Indigenous LGBTQ community members.
For the last 10 years, Target has collaborated and lent support to GLSEN. From now through June, the retailer is offering the #takepride collection, which includes apparel, swimwear, pool floats and more designed to bring a little rainbow-tinted joy into the lives of LGBTQ folks and their allies.
This popular shoe brand—most widely known for its instantly recognizable sandals—is offering a collection of gender-inclusive footwear and accessories in honor of Pride month. In addition, Teva is making a $35,000 donation to the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the educational branch of the largest civil rights organization in the U.S., and which is dedicated to achieving equality for the LGBTQ community.
TomboyX is a queer-owned shop that offers form-flattering bras, underwear, and apparel for all bodies. Specialty collections like Gender Euphoria and the Rainbow Collection can be great options to consider for Pride 2021.
Not only that, but this retailer also delivers quarterly support to select nonprofits, including the LGBTQ Freedom Fund, which advocates against mass detention of LGBTQ individuals and helps provide bail for those in jail and/or at risk for immigration detention.
The Toms Unity Collection features a variety of colorful footwear, sunglasses and more, and is available to shop right now at the site. Not only that, but the company—which recently announced it’s giving ⅓ of net profits to grassroots organizations—is supporting the LGBTQ community all year round by giving to various groups, including Brave Trails, a summer camp specifically dedicated to supporting LGBTQ youth.
We’re obsessed with Ugg Fluff Yeah slides, and for Pride 2021, you can snag a new pair of cozy, rainbow-hued slides for your collection. The Disco Stripes slides are new this year, and the brand will donate $25 per pair for those purchased directly on the site to GLAAD, up to $125,000.
Starting June 1, Welly—maker of first aid supplies—will be offering a special Pride-themed bundle, with up to $10,000 of the proceeds going to benefit PFLAG, an organization dedicated to LGBTQ people, allies, and families alike.
Established in 2013, Wildfang is a a queer-owned business that offers a mix of clothing and accessories. With an emphasis on inclusion for all bodies and sustainability, the company has donated more than $500,000 to charitable groups, including Planned Parenthood, the Tegan and Sara Foundation (which is dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ women and girls), and others.
In 2021, Wildfang has a goal of donating more than $150,000 from online, store, and partnership sales, and while it doesn’t have an overt Pride collection like other brands, shopping this store can be a great way to support the LGBTQ community.
Zenni, one of the most popular online eyewear retailers, is celebrating Pride 2021 with its 2021 Pride collection, which features frames starting from $12.95 and eight options to choose from (including a pair for kids). Proceeds from the sale go to benefit the It Gets Better Project, a nonprofit organization that seeks to empower LGBTQ youth around the world, and which Zenni has a year-round partnership with. If you follow #SeeMoreLove account on Instagram, you can take a glimpse at how other people are wearing these glasses, too.
As one of the best places to shop for flowers online, 1-800-Flowers offers a variety of options. This year, the brand has joined forces with GLAAD and through June 30, is donating 20% of net proceeds from a special Pride bouquet to support the LGBTQ community. Additionally, 1-800-Flowers Inc. (the parent company of 1-800-Flowers) has donated $25,000 to GLAAD, and since 2014, has donated nearly $200,000 to the nonprofit.
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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
Last year, COVID-19 put a big damper on Pride Month festivities, but this season, there’s cause to celebrate in more ways than one and many major retailers are getting in on the action.
While it’s customary for Pride-themed merchandise to spike during the month of June—a practice that’s often criticized and compared to pinkwashing—there’s still tremendous value that can come from rocking rainbows during this time of year, as it helps increase visibility and may lend support and encouragement to others within the LGBTQ community who are still exploring their identities.
Popular brands like Apple, Fossil, Reebok and others often dedicate huge resources during Pride Month to LGBTQ nonprofit organizations (among them, The Trevor Project, GLSEN and additional groups), which means you could be helping others gain access to valuable resources, too.
Here are 40 places (including small and large businesses) to consider shopping for Pride 2021, and which may help you uncover new ways to celebrate love, diversity and inclusivity during this joyful season.
This QBIPOC shop is based out of Los Angeles and offers affordable apparel and accessories year-round that celebrate the LGBTQ community. Not only that, but it hosts a variety of classes, workshops, and events aimed at promoting inclusivity and celebrating the artistic projects of community members, and accepts direct donations, which go to benefit these works.
Adidas has a long history of celebrating Pride by dropping a new shoe collection, and this year is no exception. The retailer just released Love Unites, which features an assortment of Pride-themed footwear, plus apparel and accessories. Although not tied to purchase sales from the collection, Adidas is actively supporting Athlete Ally, an organization that advocates for LGBTQ inclusion in sports.
In support of the LGBTQ community, Apple has released two new Apple Watch Pride bands this year, as well as a new Pride watch face for users. The brand also supports a number of LGBTQ advocacy organizations, including Encircle (which offers safe spaces for LGBTQ youth, young adults and families), the National Center for Transgender Equality (which is committed to social justice advocacy for transgender humans) and others.
Banana Republic’s Pride 2021 features 17 limited-edition pieces, including sweatshirts, shorts, socks and more. The brand has an ongoing partnership with The United Nations Foundation in support of the UN Free and Equal Campaign (UNFE) for LGBTQ equality, and has made a $60,000 donation for 2021. Over the past four years, Banana Republic has donated $240,000 to UNFE.
This year, Bath & Body Works is donating $1 million to support the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, which is doing work to help the LGBTQ community through a variety of initiatives, aimed at improve transgender rights, promoting workplace equality, and helping children and families. You can shop the brand’s Love Always Wins collection for an assortment of rainbow-centric candles, soaps, mists, and more.
In 2020, makeup and skincare brand Bliss began a partnership with The Trevor Project, the world’s largest LGBTQ suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for at-risk youth. In addition to pledging $150,000, the brand is donating 100% of net proceeds (up to $40,000) from the limited-edition Pride Makeup Melt wipes (as well as the classic version) in support of The Trevor Project’s work.
Bombas socks are great if you’re searching for soft, slightly compressive options. Right now, you can shop an assortment of Pride flag-inspired socks, underwear and more at this retailer. Additionally, for every pair you purchase, Bombas will donate a pair to those in need through Casa Ruby, a Washington DC-based multicultural and bilingual organization offering social services and LGBTQ safe spaces, as well as the Transgender Resource Center of New Mexico and Mozaic, which offers community health resources to transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary BIPOC humans between the ages of 13 to 29.
This Colorado-based snack brand is offering a special Pride-themed bar this year, and using it as an opportunity to showcase work from LGBTQ artists Ludi Leiva, Shanee Benjamin and Cheyne Gallarde. All proceeds from the bar go to benefit Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), an organization dedicated to LGBTQ people, allies, and families alike, and The Center on Colfax, which supports the LGBTQ community within Colorado.
Interested in supporting the LGBTQ community around the world? Choose Love is an international store and nonprofit that offers apparel, emergency-preparedness gear and more, and proceeds from their LGBTQ gift go to benefit shelters, legal support and community aid groups for community members in need.
This year’s Pride collection at Converse draws inspiration from five LGBTQ members of the brand’s All-Stars global community, who worked with artists to create the colorful footwear on display from it. Since 2015, the brand has donated more than $1.3 million in support of local and international LGBTQ organizations, and this year, is giving a portion of the proceeds from the Pride collection to the It Gets Better Project, which creates programs to help empower LGBTQ youth.
Love Disney and showing your support for the LGBTQ community? The Rainbow Disney collection offers an assortment of vibrant face masks, T-shirts, stuffed animals, and more that could be great for the whole family. The brand has also pledged to support a variety of domestic and international LGBTQ organizations, including ARELAS, a Spanish association offering resources to trans youth, as well as Nijiiro Diversity, a nonprofit organization in Japan focused on reducing LGBTQ discrimination in the workplace, and others.
Dr. Martens’ 1461 boots are embroidered this year with a rainbow flag on the heel, rainbow laces, and heel loops, all of which can help you rock out this year for Pride in style. You can also shop rainbow socks and laces from the brand. As in previous years, Dr. Martens is working with The Trevor Project, and is donating $100,000 to the organization. Additionally, the brand will carry on a year-round partnership, to help provide resources to the community.
As one of the best places to buy eyewear online. EyeBuyDirect offers a range of options. For Pride 2021, the brand has partnered with singer and LGBTQ ally Lele Pons to create new rainbow-colored frames and is donating all proceeds (up to $50,000) to The Trevor Project. The collection is also part of the brand’s Buy 1, Give 1 program, which allows shoppers to donate a pair of glasses with every purchase to someone in need around the world.
This famous watch brand has just launched a limited-edition Pride collection, featuring the popular Minimalist 40mm watch and an assortment of limited-edition indexes inspired by the rainbow flag, as well as 10 strap options, so folks can rock their pride their own way. Additionally, 100% of the proceeds go to benefit the Trevor Fund.
Featuring designs from artists Star Casimir, Rachel Lindset, and Abayomi “AC” Carey (all members of Gap Inc.’s LGBTQ employee resource group), the Gap Collective Pride collection includes T-shirts, hoodies, socks and more for all ages. The brand is also donating $50,000 this season to the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), an LGBTQ media advocacy organization.
This shop is also committed to positive change through community-centered initiatives, and has sponsored more than 100 LGBTQ organizations and raised more than $115,000 for artists and partner organizations over the past three years. Additionally, gc2b has donated more than 6,000 binders to those in need through its donation program, so this could be a great place to shop for Pride 2021, especially if you grab one of the brand’s special Pride-themed binders.
With 100% of the proceeds set to benefit The Trevor Project, Good Dye Young (GDY) is helping to celebrate this year with a special candle. Formulated to mimic the scent of the brand’s popular haircare, the candle will launch on June 1 and offers top notes of bergamot, meaning it could be a great option for candle lovers.
Established in 2018 by Xander Shephard, GenderBender Apparel is a trans-owned business that celebrates transgender and gender nonconforming identities, and specializes in binders and gender-inclusive shapewear, swimwear, and more. For Pride Month 2021, the shop—which operates out of Los Angeles and Long Beach, California—is offering a special collection, which features Pride-inspired shorts, hats, dresses, and more.
Based out of Spokane, Washington, The Glow Co. is a queer-owned shop that makes soy wax candles and ships all packages in containers that are biodegradable or reusable. Featuring a variety of spring scents, such as lilac, kitchen garden and blood orange sangria, this shop’s offerings could be a great investment if you’re looking for new candles to try out.
Help your feet find their happy place during Pride Month 2021 with the rainbow-colored styles available now at Happy Socks. The brand has paired up with InterPride for this year-round collection, and the organization will receive 10% of the profits from every Pride pair sold throughout the entire year.
Right now at Harry’s, you can grab a limited-edition razor, shaving kit and more, with art from Zipeng Zhu. As in previous years, 100% of the profits from this set will go to benefit The Trevor Project.
JOANN is partnering with GLSEN, a national education program dedicated to ensuring safe schools for queer youth, for Pride 2021. As part of the celebration, the store is offering custom fabrics, accessories and more that can be great for everything from festivals to private, socially distanced gatherings. The retailer is also donating $25,000 to GLSEN and an assortment of items (plus $5,000) to the LGBTQ Center of Greater Cleveland, which helps community members in the Ohio area.
It’s rainbows as far as the eye can see with this limited edition Pride-inspired collection at Kate Spade. The brand is donating 20% of the profits from this assortment of bags, face masks, ready-to-wear jewelry, and more to The Trevor Project, a long-time partner.
Available June 1, the “Everyone is Awesome” LEGO set celebrates diversity and features 11 mini-figures, all rocking their own unique looks. This 346-piece model will be available online and in stores and could be a fun option for kids and LEGO lovers of all ages. The brand also has partnerships with organizations like Stonewall, which helps fund other LGBTQ organizations and offers grants and scholarships, as well as Workplace Pride and Open for Business, which strive toward LGBTQ inclusivity in the workplace and in society.
25. Levi’s
Levi’s is kicking off Pride Month 2021 with the All Pronouns All Love collection, which aims to bring awareness to the importance of respecting pronouns and inspiring inclusivity for all. The Liberation trucker jacket, which features rainbow paneling on the back with the words “they/them, she/her, he/him, we,” is a highlight of it, but you can also shop T-shirts, shorts and more. All of the proceeds from this collection go to benefit OutRight Action International, a global organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of LGBTQ humans around the world.
MAC Cosmetics has a long history of supporting the LGBTQ community, even beyond Pride month. All proceeds from the brand’s iconic Viva Glam line—which launched in 1994 and all proceeds of which were initially donated to help fight HIV/AIDS—go to benefit the Mac Viva Glam Fund and has helped raise more than $500 million worldwide.
Set to launch June 1 (although some pieces are already available), Madewell’s collection with artist Lisa Congdon features a variety of colorful T-shirts, jeans, and posters, so shoppers who love this fashion-forward retailer to show off their Pride as well. Half of the proceeds from the collection will go to benefit the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which helps to advocate for LGBTQ equal rights and fight against discrimination.
MeUndies makes undergarments for all bodies, and for Pride Month 2021, the brand is offering a limited-edition collection that includes everything from underwear to apparel, face masks, and more. Additionally, MeUndies is partnering with the Los Angeles LGBT Center, which offers programs, services, and advocacy for LGBTQ in need.
To support the organization’s work, MeUndies has made a financial commitment of $75,000, which will help provide educational support for 150 LGBTQ youth, as well as 22,500 hot meals, 1,500 full days of services (including employment training), and 600 bed nights in the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Transitional Living Program, and more.
Native makes all-natural deodorant, and this year for Pride, the brand is partnering with The LGBT Asylum Project, a nonprofit organization which aims to help 500 LGBTQ asylum seekers gain accessible legal representation. The brand is donating $10,000 to help the cause and is also offering customers the chance to save 20% off their next order by emailing a copy of a donation receipt to any nonprofit that supports the LGBTQ community to pride@nativecos.com.
Olay is celebrating Pride 2021 with a limited-edition jar of the popular Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream, along with two gift sets. The brand is also donating $75,000 to The Trevor Project and lending support to the Can’t Cancel Pride, a virtual streaming event.
For gender-affirming swimwear, Outplay is a great place to shop, offering binders with a range of compression fits, board shorts, and more to suit those in the LGBTQ community. You can shop the brand’s Pride collection right now and explore new ways to show your support, or consider its sportswear collection, which boasts a mix of T-shirts, sports bras, pants, and other apparel.
Color Outside the Lines is a new underwear collection from Parade, which features more than 130 mix-and-match options for undergarments. In addition, the brand is donating 2,000 pairs of underwear to five LGBTQ centers, including the Ali Forney Center, a nonprofit offering shelter and healthcare services to LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness.
Even pets can get in on the action this Pride Month 2021 at Petsmart. The brand’s “You Are Loved Collection” features fashion, accessories, and toys for cats and dogs, which are emblazoned with distinctive rainbows. Petsmart is also a proud supporter of GLSEN and will donate $100,000 in 2021 to benefit the organization.
PopSockets are a cute but useful accessory that can help you grip your phone with greater ease. For Pride 2021, the brand is offering multiple rainbow-themed options to choose from. Plus, 50% of every sale from June 1 to June 30 will go to benefit the It Gets Better Project.
Love the classic look of Ralph Lauren? The brand is celebrating Pride Month 2021 with an exclusive collection of Polo shirts, hats, water bottles, and other items. All proceeds from the sale of each Polo shirt and 25% of the purchase price from the sale of each graphic T-shirt, water bottles, and more go to benefit the Stonewall Community Foundation.
Just in time for Pride 2021, Reebok’s latest collection celebrating the LGBTQ community features a vibrant assortment of Pride-inspired footwear and apparel. The items were designed by Colorful Soles, the brand’s LGBTQ employee community, which also partnered with the legendary House of Ninja (spotlighted in the iconic documentary, Paris is Burning. In addition, Reebok is donating $75,000 to the Sylvia Rivera Law Project, which advocates for affirming access to social, health and legal services for those of all gender identity and expression.
This year, Skagen—maker of classic watches—is partnering with InterPride and donating $25,000 to support its mission of helping the LGBTQ community on an international level. Inspired by the Pride and transgender flags, the Aaren Pride collection by Skagen features two limited edition styles.
There’s only one rainbow that matters during Pride, according to Skittles. For the second year in a row, the brand is giving up its signature rainbow during the month of June and offering a new limited-edition bag, which features gray packaging on the outside and all gray candies within. Skittles is also partnering with GLAAD, and $1 per pack purchased will be donated to GLAAD (up to $100,000). You can snag it at Walmart both online and in stores in select sizes until the end of the month.
Specializing in home and apparel, SUAY Sew Shop is a queer-owned and operated brand that creates products from a combination of post-consumer waste and deadstock fabric. For Pride 2021, it’s donating 10% of all pillow sales to support the Seeding Sovereignty Ancestral Acres Farm and Garden, which helps to address food scarcity issues and boost community farm and garden initiatives for Black and Indigenous LGBTQ community members.
For the last 10 years, Target has collaborated and lent support to GLSEN. From now through June, the retailer is offering the #takepride collection, which includes apparel, swimwear, pool floats and more designed to bring a little rainbow-tinted joy into the lives of LGBTQ folks and their allies.
This popular shoe brand—most widely known for its instantly recognizable sandals—is offering a collection of gender-inclusive footwear and accessories in honor of Pride month. In addition, Teva is making a $35,000 donation to the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the educational branch of the largest civil rights organization in the U.S., and which is dedicated to achieving equality for the LGBTQ community.
TomboyX is a queer-owned shop that offers form-flattering bras, underwear, and apparel for all bodies. Specialty collections like Gender Euphoria and the Rainbow Collection can be great options to consider for Pride 2021.
Not only that, but this retailer also delivers quarterly support to select nonprofits, including the LGBTQ Freedom Fund, which advocates against mass detention of LGBTQ individuals and helps provide bail for those in jail and/or at risk for immigration detention.
The Toms Unity Collection features a variety of colorful footwear, sunglasses and more, and is available to shop right now at the site. Not only that, but the company—which recently announced it’s giving ⅓ of net profits to grassroots organizations—is supporting the LGBTQ community all year round by giving to various groups, including Brave Trails, a summer camp specifically dedicated to supporting LGBTQ youth.
We’re obsessed with Ugg Fluff Yeah slides, and for Pride 2021, you can snag a new pair of cozy, rainbow-hued slides for your collection. The Disco Stripes slides are new this year, and the brand will donate $25 per pair for those purchased directly on the site to GLAAD, up to $125,000.
From classic slip-ons to T-shirts and more, the Pride collection at Vans this year runs the gamut and may help those who love the sporty look that this brand is known for feel more comfortable. Vans is also donating $200,000 to LGBTQ organizations, including GLSEN, Casa 1, Where Love is Illegal, and Tokyo Rainbow Pride.
From banners to bumper stickers and much more, Vistaprint is offering an assortment of Pride-themed merchandise in honor of Pride Month 2021. Not only that, but the brand has a year-round partnership with StartOut, the largest non-profit organization for LGBTQ entrepreneurs. In addition to making a $100,000 donation to the organization, Vistaprint is also offering 20% of all Pride merchandise proceeds to benefit StartOut projects.
Starting June 1, Welly—maker of first aid supplies—will be offering a special Pride-themed bundle, with up to $10,000 of the proceeds going to benefit PFLAG, an organization dedicated to LGBTQ people, allies, and families alike.
Established in 2013, Wildfang is a a queer-owned business that offers a mix of clothing and accessories. With an emphasis on inclusion for all bodies and sustainability, the company has donated more than $500,000 to charitable groups, including Planned Parenthood, the Tegan and Sara Foundation (which is dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ women and girls), and others.
In 2021, Wildfang has a goal of donating more than $150,000 from online, store, and partnership sales, and while it doesn’t have an overt Pride collection like other brands, shopping this store can be a great way to support the LGBTQ community.
Zenni, one of the most popular online eyewear retailers, is celebrating Pride 2021 with its 2021 Pride collection, which features frames starting from $12.95 and eight options to choose from (including a pair for kids). Proceeds from the sale go to benefit the It Gets Better Project, a nonprofit organization that seeks to empower LGBTQ youth around the world, and which Zenni has a year-round partnership with. If you follow #SeeMoreLove account on Instagram, you can take a glimpse at how other people are wearing these glasses, too.
As one of the best places to shop for flowers online, 1-800-Flowers offers a variety of options. This year, the brand has joined forces with GLAAD and through June 30, is donating 20% of net proceeds from a special Pride bouquet to support the LGBTQ community. Additionally, 1-800-Flowers Inc. (the parent company of 1-800-Flowers) has donated $25,000 to GLAAD, and since 2014, has donated nearly $200,000 to the nonprofit.
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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
Voting Locations And Hours For Compton’s General Municipal ElectionsVoters in Compton’s June 1 general municipal elections can vote early and in-person through the holiday weekend.
Search For Suspects In Road Rage Shooting Of 6-Year-Old Boy ContinuesKandiss Crone reports from Orange where investigators continue their search suspects in a deadly road rage shooting. CHP is asking for help locating a white, late model Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen.
Venice Homelessness CrisisLaurie Perez reports from Venice on the growing frustration of residents about the ever increasing homeless encampment on the Venice Boardwalk, with many residents fearing for their safety.
LA 2-Year-Old Youngest Member of MensaKashe Quest, a 2-year-old from Los Angeles, is now the youngest American member of MENSA.
B.J. Thomas DiesSinger BJ Thomas dies Saturday.
Vax To The Max Vaccine ClinicLos Angele’s LGBT services hosted a vaccine clinic Saturday night, encouraging trans and nonbinary people to come get vaccinated.
Metrolink Ventura County Line Begins Saturday ServiceMetrolink Ventura County Line began Saturday service, which brings people to downtown LA.
Car Hits Hydrant After PursuitA car hit a fire hydrant after a pursuit with Pasadena Police.
3 People Arrested At A Protest Outside Tinhorn FlatsBurbank Police arrested three people outside the bar TInhorn Flats Saloon and Grill who were protesting the injunction against the bar.
Robbery At AT&T StoreTwo men robbed an AT&T store, using force against an employee to gain access to the safe.
Double Shooting In Long Beach MotelInvestigators are still working to solve a deadly double shooting in a Long Beach Motel.
Actor Gavin MacLeod Dies At Age Of 78Actor Gavin MacLeod, known for his roles in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and “The Love Boat” died at the age of 78.
Volunteers Plants Flags For Fallen SoldiersJoy Benedict reports on the Memorial Day tradition of planting flags at the graves at the Riverside National Cemetery.
Fullerton ShootingA manhunt is underway for a shooting suspect in Fullerton.
Raging Waters ReopensRick Montanez reports on the reopening of Raging Waters as COVID restrictions are loosened.
Memorial Day Weekend Activities In The SouthlandRick Montanez reports on how residents around the southland are spending Memorial Day weekend.
Dodgers’ Bill RussellLongtime Dodger shortstop and coach Bill Russell sits down with Jim Hill for a look back at his career with the team, including some pranks the players pulled on Tommy Lasorda.
Inside SoCal Sunday Morning: 5/30Happy Memorial Weekend! Get outside with family and friends and enjoy the newly reopened Knott’s Berry Farm. Plus, we celebrate those who Memorial Day honors.
Children Plant Flags At Riverside National Cemetery To Honor Those Who Served Ahead Of Memorial DayIt’s an annual event to honor those who have served, the planting of American flags on the graves of military members to commemorate Memorial Day.
Stabbing At Carls Jr. In North HollywoodIt happened Friday night around 11 pm at the fast food restaurant on Sherman Way.
One Killed, Another Injured In Fullerton ShootingOne person was killed and another injured in a shooting in Fullerton Friday evening.
Evelyn Taft’s Weather Forecast (May 28)Evelyn Taft takes a look at tonight’s weather.
Fairfax District Business Owners Say Nothing Is Being Done To Stop Illegal SideshowsMotorcyclists have been taking over a Fairfax District Street, snarling traffic and forcing at least one restaurant to change the way it does business.
Sheared Hydrant Shoots Water Into AirIt happened in Arcadia Friday night.
The patches are available for sale to the public for $10 each. Proceeds from the sale of
the patches will be donated to The Trevor Project.
The Trevor Project was founded in 1998 and is focused on suicide prevention efforts among LGBTQ youth. For more information about this organization, please visit www.thetrevorproject.org.
For more information about how the Seal Beach Police Department supports Pride Month or purchasing a patch, please contact Officer Erin Enos at (562) 799-4100 ext. 1605 or eenos@sealbeachca.gov.
Picture this: A ragtag group of 75 gay individuals, some with paper bags over their heads, marching through Kennedy Plaza. Why paper bags? Because it was 1976, and while the nation was celebrating its bicentennial, living an openly gay life could easily mean being disowned by family and friends, police harassment, and getting fired; despite this, and state and city road blocks, these brave trail blazers took to the streets for Providence’s first-ever Pride parade.
We’ve come a long way since that first procession, including marriage equality, repeal of sodomy laws, and ban of conversion therapy. Dozens of youth and adult advocacy groups now exist, sexual orientation is beginning to be represented in leadership, and that original march blossomed into PrideFest, which pre-COVID was drawing thousands to the Creative Capital (estimated at 60,000 in 2019). Of course, last year threw a wrench in things. Celebrations were cancelled primarily due to the pandemic, but there were also challenges within Rhode Island Pride, the nonprofit that puts together the annual event. But Anthony Santurri, business owner and former RI Pride member, passionately assures us: “There is going to be a Pride celebration this year.”
And this year, it will be organized by another ragtag group of men and women, just like it started.
“As I reflect upon this year’s Pride celebration, I cannot help but remember the profound loss suffered by so many this year,” begins Joe Wilson, Jr., who is an actor, director, producer, professor, and artist with Trinity Repertory Company. “We must use this ‘coming together’ in June – this ‘coming out’ – to celebrate, but along with our celebration of achievement, we must recognize that we all enjoy some measure of privilege because of that valiant band of renegade warriors, those original freedom fighters, who spilled their blood on that city street, just outside that Village bar, on that hot summer night in June,” says Wilson, harkening back to the Stonewall uprising, a series of protests in NYC triggered by the raid on The Stonewall Inn nightclub, in June of 1969. “We are emerging from a really dark time. This year, let’s celebrate community and each other, but the fight continues.”
LaDiva Jonz, Providence’s oldest living drag queen, explains that “For me, Pride has always been about standing up in the world with like-minded individuals and saying: I am gay and I deserve to be treated like everyone else. Very often now, I think back on how Pride was truly a community event where LGBTQIA+ came together to celebrate their uniqueness,” Jonz reflects. “While it’s great that we now have the support of so many allies at our celebration, I do miss when it was more of a middle finger to the general population – a showing of queerness.”
The popularity of Pride has certainly contributed to Providence’s reputation as a gay-friendly city. “Providence has been recognized nationally as a top LGBTQIA+ travel destination because of its warm, welcoming, and diverse LGBTQIA+ community,” says Kristen Adamo, president and CEO of the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Pride is a citywide celebration of that community that is enjoyed by a wide range of people. It is one of the key summer events, a strong revenue generator for hotels and restaurants, and an integral part of our summer marketing,” she adds. In 2019, Reader’s Digest ranked Providence one of 12 perfect places to stay to celebrate Pride, citing the live music, block parties, and unique boutique hotels as reasons to check out the annual event.
But the impact stretches far beyond just economic; Pride is an integral thread in the city’s social fabric, which is why leaders like Governor Dan McKee and Mayor Jorge Elorza have pledged their commitment to making the celebration happen this year. “Pride is a great celebration of love and life and community,” says Senator Tiara Mack, who recently made waves as Rhode Island’s first openly queer Black person elected to the senate. “You can see all of the different groups celebrating, from elder queers to today’s youth. It’s a great show of solidarity and community.”
Planning for this year’s Pride began in coordination with Governor McKee’s announcement that mandates will be lifted to allow venues more capacity, particularly those with outdoor spaces. Pride has always consisted of mainly open-air events, so the timing is perfect.
“We want everyone to be a part of it,” says Santurri, “and we are involving people of color and members of the trans and other communities to help us plan a more inclusive Pride for all of Rhode Island.” While a firm calendar has not yet been released at press time, he reveals that numerous events will be held in and around the traditional date of the parade, June 19. “It’s so important that everyone experience the joy and resilience of this community,” he says, “especially after all we’ve been through in the past year.”
Elana Rosenberg, executive director of Youth Pride, Inc. (YPI), saw an increased demand for services from young people, many of whom lived with families not accepting of their sexual or gender identities. That’s why YPI has stepped up their clinical services and even added new programs, including a meet-up for Spanish-speaking youth and safe space for LGBTQIA+ kids aged five through nine.
The impact of Pride on the Providence community, especially youth, cannot be understated – and goes to show how important it is to resurrect the tradition after a tumultuous year. Locally beloved news anchor Mario Hilario remembers the last Pride event in 2019: “My close friend asked me to go with her and her teenage son who had just come out. I was honored to be there and help him experience his first Pride, and was really heartened by the knowledge that, despite the challenges we still face, he is able to come of age in such an inclusive community that allows us to live who we were born to be.”
Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House principal deputy press secretary, just made history in multiple ways.
On Wednesday, May 26, Jean-Pierre became the first openly gay woman to ever lead a White House press briefing. On top of this important milestone, the communications expert is only the second Black woman to perform this particular role behind the podium (the first being George H.W. Bush–era deputy press secretary Judy Smith in 1991).
The principal deputy press secretary previously worked as a senior adviser to now President Joe Biden as well as chief of staff to current Vice President Kamala Harris. Prior, she held a position in the Obama-Biden administration and served as a political analyst for NBC and MSNBC.
“Your presence here today is making history,” one reporter pointed out during the briefing. “You were the first black woman to stand behind that podium, speaking on behalf of the president in 30 years. Just wondering if you could share your reflections?”
Jean-Pierre responded that while “it’s a real honor” and she appreciates “the historic nature” of the moment, her work behind the podium is all about the American people.
“It’s a real honor to be standing to just be standing here today,” she said. “I appreciate the historic nature, I really do. But I believe that being behind this podium, being in this room, being in this building is not about one person; it’s about what we do on behalf of the American people. Clearly, the president believes in representation matters, and I appreciate him giving me this opportunity.”
Karine Jean-Pierre continued by describing President Joe Biden’s administration as the “most diverse” in history. The Biden-Harris communications team—which is completely made up of women—is just one example of that commitment.
“It’s another reason why I think we’re all so proud that this is the most diverse administration in history,” Jean-Pierre continued. “But again, this is not about me, this is not about any of us, and anytime I’m behind here—I think you’ve heard Jen say this as well—we are going to be truthful and we’re going to be transparent. And that’s the way I believe the president would want us to communicate to the American people. Thank you for the question.”
Andy Cohen during a The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills reunion — Photo: Bravo
Andy Cohen has teased the possibility of a gay spin-off of long-running reality series The Real Housewives.
Cohen, who executive produces the various franchises, said that Real Housewives almost had a lesbian-focused spoin-off, and producers remained “open” to a queer Housewives.
Appearing on podcast Going to Bed with Garcelle, hosted by Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Garcelle Beauvais, Cohen was asked by Beauvais if they had “ever thought about having a gay franchise?”
“We’ve talked about that,” the 52-year-old Cohen replied, according to People. “It was something that we were really into many years ago. We’ve almost cast several lesbians.”
As for gay men, Cohen said, “It’s ultimately a show about women, which is why the guys have always been in the background, like, the husbands have typically been more in the background.”
He added: “And so I think the answer is we’ve been open to it. We almost cast a guy on [The Real Housewives of New Jersey] who was Dina Manzo’s brother and Caroline’s brother as the first gay Housewife.
“This was years ago. This was like, 2008 or nine or something like that. But we wound up just not doing it.”
Cohen, who also hosts Bravo’s late night talk show Watch What Happens Live, said he’s not opposed to a gay Real Housewives — but fans probably shouldn’t hold their breath. “If the right person smacked me in the face, yeah,” he said.
The Real Housewives of Orange County technically stars the first lesbian Housewife, with Braunwyn Windham-Burke coming out as a lesbian in December 2020.
These are challenging times for news organizations. And yet it’s crucial we stay active and provide vital resources and information to both our local readers and the world. So won’t you please take a moment and consider supporting Metro Weekly with a membership? For as little as $5 a month, you can help ensure Metro Weekly magazine and MetroWeekly.com remain free, viable resources as we provide the best, most diverse, culturally-resonant LGBTQ coverage in both the D.C. region and around the world. Memberships come with exclusive perks and discounts, your own personal digital delivery of each week’s magazine (and an archive), access to our Member’s Lounge when it launches this fall, and exclusive members-only items like Metro Weekly Membership Mugs and Tote Bags! Check out all our membership levels here and please join us today!
When the Netherlands announced that they were re-opening for tourists at the end of April, many of us began looking into flights and trains to inaugurate our first post-COVID gaycation.
Depending on where (and when) you travel these days, always research to find out what restrictions are in place since these can change daily. Since my husband and I were taking the Thalys high-speed train from Paris to Amsterdam, we were required to provide negative PCR test results that were less than three days old before being allowed to board the train. The inspection was done by French Police at the Gare de Nord train station, and once on-board we were required to keep our face masks on.
But once we arrived in Amsterdam’s Centraal station, the sun was shining and everyone had their masks off outside. The fresh spring air and smiling faces reinvigorated us and reminded us why Amsterdam has such a special place in our collective hearts as a favorite destination.
Photo by Liam Gant from Pexels
Why Amsterdam –
Indeed for many tourists, the very idea of Amsterdam is one of freedom. For decades people would come to Amsterdam because of its reputation as the capital of tolerance with its coffeeshops (the Dutch euphemism for safe places to smoke pot/hashish), open sexuality (the Red Light district with its windows of sex workers trying to entice customers), and for gay men the promise of a vibrant night life of bars and clubs for whatever one’s personal predilection.
In recent years, however, Amsterdam like many cities has suffered from its own success. Prior to COVID-19 and the “lost year” of 2020, this city of only 800,000 residents (within its city limits) welcomed nearly 20 million tourists per year. Like Venice, Barcelona, and even Prague, the city of Amsterdam has begun to rethink its approach in hosting so many tourists who flock annually with cheap airfare from budget airlines and booked apartments through airBnB on-line.
In February of this year, the city’s mayor came out in favor of banning from tourists marijuana and other soft drugs that are currently legal with the hope that this might bring down the influx of foreign visitors who come to Amsterdam seeking to party and create havoc in the streets (and canals). A 2019 survey of visitors to the Red Light district showed that over half of them came expressly to smoke in the coffeeshops, and a third of those said they probably would not have come to Amsterdam if there had been a ban on their consumption.
As of now smoking in coffeeshops is still an option for tourists, but it is on the radar as a means of clamping down on the inundation the city has suffered in recent years from too many visitors.
Where the Gays Are –
As for gay nightlife, the heart of the gay district has traditionally been a street between the Singel river canal and Herengracht canal called “Reguliersdwarstraat.” If that seems like a mouthful, it is (and welcome to Holland!). The origin of the name dates from the Middle Ages and refers to the monastery located outside of the city walls that used the “regular” vespers in their daily discipline. Now the street is synonymous with “the gay street” and is the home of several bars, restaurants, and gay owned businesses.
Couple of men in the streets of Amsterdam (photo by author)
Many locals remember fondly the street’s hey-day when it was filled with gay men all hours of the day and night. It seemed like Reguliersdwarstraat was the epicenter of gay Europe, if not the entire world. Many of the bars and clubs from this era, the 1980s – 2000s, were owned by a single entrepreneur, a troubled man named Sjoerd Kooistra. He built an empire of bars that dominated the street, and eventually across all of the Netherlands, through a shady arrangement with holding companies and partnerships with major breweries. By the early 2000s, some of his bars were financially broke, but he continued to operate them using increasing credit from the beer distributors until finally in 2010 his gay house of cards came crashing down and he committed suicide. As a result most of Reguliersdwarstraat was vacant, and it has taken years for it to bounce back.
Today this charming street just off of the famed Flower Market is again welcoming gay tourists, and on the nearby Kerkstraat, additional clubs and bars have also opened as Amsterdam is experiencing a gay renaissance.
Photo by Viktor Mogilat from Pexels
During our stay at the beginning of May, restaurants were only allowed to seat guests from noon until 6:00 pm outside (and nobody inside), all other times they could do take-out orders. Shops were open (with limited capacity), but museums sadly remained closed.
One of the rooms at The Hoxton hotel (photo from hoxton.com)
Where We Stayed –
We stayed at the trendy but affordable Hoxton hotel on Herengracht in the center of the historic core of the city. Just a five minute walk to the quaint “9 Straatjes” (literally 9 streets) shopping district of unique boutiques and eclectic cafés, we explored the rings of canals during our four day stay. A great first stop for any gay tourist should be the “Gay Kiosk” next to the towering Westerkerk church on Prinzengracht canal. There you can ask the friendly volunteer what they recommend as to bars and places to visit based on your own interests.
“Gay Kiosk” – photo taken by author.
Pink Point is Amsterdam’s official gay and lesbian information kiosk situated next to the Homomonument on the Westermarkt. Pink Point provides information on the Homomonument, as well as general information on gay and lesbian Amsterdam. Staffed by friendly and knowledgable volunteers, Pink Point has a wide range of information and flyers from local organisations, as well as one of the best selections of queer souvenirs and gifts in Holland. – iamsterdam.com
Adjacent to the Westerkerk are the Anne Frank House and Museum as well as the Monument to Homosexuals which commemorates those who have been persecuted for their homosexuality, a sober reminder that while we live in liberty, many millions of others do not.
Getting Around –
For a real Dutch experience, one should pedal around this amazing city as thousands do every day. The city is ideal for biking since it is flat and has been configured in recent years to have bike-only paths on all of the major streets. Tourists can rent bikes from any number of vendors throughout the city, but if bike riding isn’t your thing, you can always buy a day pass for the city’s trams which criss-cross the center. Tickets can be bought directly inside any tram (enter in the middle section) for 8 € per day. Just remember to validate the card upon purchase and whenever entering and leaving the tram.
If you just want to walk around and explore on your own terms, be prepared to put on some good walking shoes. Our first day we clocked more than 18,000 steps (almost 7 miles) as we walked down to Amsterdam’s version of Central Park, Vondelpark, and looped back to the Museum district where the Van Gogh and Rijksmuseum were (sadly closed for the time being), then up to the De Wallen neighborhood followed by a meandering stroll back towards our hotel where we enjoyed an amazing dinner at Café George (Leidsegracht 84). Few things are more romantic than a delicious meal canal-side in late spring, and it was one of our favorite moments of the trip.
Photo by Andrew Hawkes from Pexels
Whether your idea of great vacation is cultural immersion in museums, beautiful architecture, great shopping, delicious cuisine, friendly and sexy locals, or just relaxing and having fun in a gay mecca, Amsterdam has it all.
Photo by Marko Zirdum from PexelsPhoto by Liene Ratniece from Pexels
“This post is solely the opinion of this contributing writer and may not reflect the opinion of other writers, staff, or owners of Instinct Magazine.”
Twitch has implemented over 350 new tags for streamers, allowing them to categorize themselves by “gender, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ability, mental health, and more,” the company announced Thursday. Some of these tags, which were implemented on May 26, include transgender, Vtuber, genderqueer, and visible disability. These tags are an optional tool that allows a streamer to classify themselves into a particular community.
In the announcement, Twitch thanked the trans community for requesting the change:
We’d like to thank our trans community for originally requesting the “transgender” tag, and for their passion and persistence in pursuit of that request. This has been one of the most popular requests we’ve heard, and the simple truth is that we should have done this sooner.
It took us too long to embrace that there should have been hundreds of ways for creators to share who they are and issues they care about. The Twitch community is incredibly diverse and the tags available to creators should reflect and celebrate that.
We know implementing the request for tags took far longer than it should have, and we sincerely thank you for your persistence, feedback, and patience. Now and always, it helps us make a better Twitch for everyone.
Twitch also said that it partnered with GLAAD, the Trevor Project, AbleGamers, SpecialEffect, and “other experts focused on the progress of underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, LGBTQIA+, disabled, and marginalized communities. And finally, we reached out to members of the Twitch community for their feedback.”
This is the second major announcement on content organization that Twitch has made recently. on May 21, the platform announced that it would be creating a new category for pool, hot tub, and beach streams. “Being found to be sexy by others is not against our rules,” Twitch clarified.
Stickers showing swastikas and the words “We are everywhere” were posted at an Anchorage gay bar and Jewish museum earlier this week, according to the Anchorage Police Department.
Nazi themed stickers. (Photo from Anchorage Police Department)
The black and white stickers were found at the main entrances of Mad Myrna’s, a bar in downtown Anchorage, and the Alaska Jewish Museum in Midtown. They were first reported to police on Tuesday. The report was sent out through the police’s Nixle alert system Wednesday evening.
Anchorage police are asking for the public’s help in finding the people who posted the stickers. They ask that if you see a sticker, you do not remove it but call police dispatch to report it.
Huge crowds gathered for Pride in London in 2019. (Dinendra Haria/ SOPA Images/LightRocket/ Getty)
The number of over-65s in the UK who identify as lesbian, gay or bisexual has increased for the first time, figures released Thursday (27 May) show.
In a small but seismic bump between 2018 and 2019, the proportion of people aged 65 and over who say they are LGB leapt from 0.7 per cent to one per cent, according to the Office for National Statistics.
Despite this increase, the new analysis showed the years-long trend of the largest amount of LGB people being packed into the lower age brackets.
The analysis, based on figures from the Annual Population Survey, showed that one-third of LGB people in the UK are between 16 and 24.
Overall, the agency’s 2019 report on sexual orientation gave a snapshot of a UK where more and more feel able to live their authentic selves with more people than ever before identifying as LGB+.
More people than ever before identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual in the UK
The data, the latest in an annual series on LGB+ populations, showed that the proportion of the UK population aged 16 years and over who are straight shrank from 94.6 per cent in 2018 to 93.7 per cent in 2019.
In 2019, 2.7 per cent of the population said they were LGB, up from 2.2 per cent the previous year. This represents a thumping 200,000 people jump.
This spike was seen across almost all demographics. LGB women leapt by 0.2 per cent to 2.5 per cent, men from 2.5 per cent to 2.9 per cent.
Men were almost twice as likely as women to identify as gay, while women were more likely to be bisexual than men.
Such a figure is a triumphant broadside against the anti-trans trope that lesbians in the UK are facing so-called “extinction” because, er, trans people exist.
And in a not exactly surprising climb, there’s been yet another upswing in the number of LGB young people in the UK. Around one in 15 people aged between 16 and 24 are LGB (6.6 per cent).
Younger people (those aged 16 to 24) were most likely to identify as LGB in 2019, although there were also rises in the proportion of older people (aged 65 and over) identifying as LGB https://t.co/aX92C3WjX1pic.twitter.com/yhuDy32FT1
— Office for National Statistics (ONS) (@ONS) May 27, 2021
Statisticians suggested that “younger people could be more likely to explore their sexuality, combined with more social acceptability of different sexual identities and the expression of these today”.
Within the ONS’ data, the “other” box, which it says captures those who are not heterosexual or LGB, has also inched upwards.
In 2018, 0.6 per cent of the population identified as something other than straight or LGB – it has since increased by 0.1 per cent.
As much as surges were seen across England and Scotland, figures for Northern Ireland and Wales remains static.
London once again remains a hub of safety and acceptance for the community in England, the data suggests, with 3.8 per cent of residents identifying as LGB.
Statisticians suggested that this might be because there are more young people living in London compared to other regions of the country.
This means that people living in the capital city are more likely to LGB than anywhere else in England, whereas those based in the east are the least likely, at 2.1 per cent.
Indeed, the boom in the number of LGB people in the UK is “significant”, said Penelope McClure, who works at the ONS’ Population Statistics Division, in the report.
“An estimated 1.4 million people aged 16 and over in the UK identified as lesbian, gay or bisexual (LGB) in 2019 – a statistically significant increase from 1.2 million in 2018 – continuing the trend we have seen over recent years,” she said.
“People aged 16 to 24 continue to be the most likely to identify as LGB, however, the proportion of older adults identifying as LGB, while much smaller, is also increasing.”
The number of over-65s in the UK who identify as lesbian, gay or bisexual has increased for the first time, figures released Thursday (27 May) show.
In a small but seismic bump between 2018 and 2019, the proportion of people aged 65 and over who say they are LGB leapt from 0.7 per cent to one per cent, according to the Office for National Statistics.
Despite this increase, the new analysis showed the years-long trend of the largest amount of LGB people being packed into the lower age brackets.
The analysis, based on figures from the Annual Population Survey, showed that one-third of LGB people in the UK are between 16 and 24.
Overall, the agency’s 2019 report on sexual orientation gave a snapshot of a UK where more and more feel able to live their authentic selves with more people than ever before identifying as LGB+.
More people than ever before identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual in the UK
The data, the latest in an annual series on LGB+ populations, showed that the proportion of the UK population aged 16 years and over who are straight shrank from 94.6 per cent in 2018 to 93.7 per cent in 2019.
In 2019, 2.7 per cent of the population said they were LGB, up from 2.2 per cent the previous year. This represents a thumping 200,000 people jump.
This spike was seen across almost all demographics. LGB women leapt by 0.2 per cent to 2.5 per cent, men from 2.5 per cent to 2.9 per cent.
Men were almost twice as likely as women to identify as gay, while women were more likely to be bisexual than men.
Such a figure is a triumphant broadside against the anti-trans trope that lesbians in the UK are facing so-called “extinction” because, er, trans people exist.
And in a not exactly surprising climb, there’s been yet another upswing in the number of LGB young people in the UK. Around one in 15 people aged between 16 and 24 are LGB (6.6 per cent).
Statisticians suggested that “younger people could be more likely to explore their sexuality, combined with more social acceptability of different sexual identities and the expression of these today”.
Within the ONS’ data, the “other” box, which it says captures those who are not heterosexual or LGB, has also inched upwards.
In 2018, 0.6 per cent of the population identified as something other than straight or LGB – it has since increased by 0.1 per cent.
As much as surges were seen across England and Scotland, figures for Northern Ireland and Wales remains static.
London once again remains a hub of safety and acceptance for the community in England, the data suggests, with 3.8 per cent of residents identifying as LGB.
Statisticians suggested that this might be because there are more young people living in London compared to other regions of the country.
This means that people living in the capital city are more likely to LGB than anywhere else in England, whereas those based in the east are the least likely, at 2.1 per cent.
Indeed, the boom in the number of LGB people in the UK is “significant”, said Penelope McClure, who works at the ONS’ Population Statistics Division, in the report.
“An estimated 1.4 million people aged 16 and over in the UK identified as lesbian, gay or bisexual (LGB) in 2019 – a statistically significant increase from 1.2 million in 2018 – continuing the trend we have seen over recent years,” she said.
“People aged 16 to 24 continue to be the most likely to identify as LGB, however, the proportion of older adults identifying as LGB, while much smaller, is also increasing.”
HRC FOUNDATION RECOGNIZES CHILEAN COMPANIES DEDICATED TO LGBTQ WORKPLACE INCLUSION: “Over the past three years, HRC Equidad CL has moved the needle to create better and more inclusive workplaces for LGBTQ employees in Chile,” said HRC President Alphonso David. “Business leaders know that building an LGBTQ-inclusive workplace is not just the right decision — it is the best business decision — allowing companies to maximize their market opportunities and the attraction, retention and engagement of top talent. Their commitment and hard work positively impacts the daily lives of thousands of employees and families, while also transforming society at large.” More from HRC.
LA FUNDACIÓN HRC RECONOCE A EMPRESAS CHILENAS DEDICADAS A LA INCLUSIÓN LGBT: Más de HRC en Español.
KARINE JEAN-PIERRE MAKES HISTORY AS FIRST BLACK AND OPENLY LGBTQ WHITE HOUSE PRESS SECRETARY TO TAKE PODIUM: Yesterday, White House Principal Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre (@KJP46) made history as the first Black and openly LGBTQ person to take the podium in the press briefing room, later sharing, “It’s a real honor to be standing here today. Clearly the president believes that representation matters and I appreciate him giving me this opportunity.” More from The New York Times, NPR and NBC.
HRC ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL VIRGINIA LEGISLATIVE ENDORSEMENTS: “Under Speaker Filler-Corn’s leadership, Virginia has emerged as a leader in the fight for LGBTQ equality in the South. The Virginia House of Delegates’ pro-equality majority has taken on big challenges and won, delivering key advances for LGBTQ people living in Virginia,” said HRC President Alphonso David. More from HRC.
ANTI-TRANSGENDER LEGISLATION WORSENS CLASSROOM HARDSHIPS FOR TRANS STUDENTS: “Providing respect to students is a baseline that all of us can meet,” said HRC Legal Director Sarah Warbelow (@sarahwarbelow). “When they tell you who they are, accept and respect it.” More from ABC.
🩺WATCH: PANEL DISCUSSION ON GENDER AFFIRMING CARE: Last night, HRC hosted a conversation about the reality of the benefits of gender-affirming care with a panel of medical providers and transgender advocates. Watch here.
📍 IN THE STATES
⏰ TIME RUNS OUT FOR TEXAS ANTI-TRANSGENDER SPORTS BAN BILL: “Bills like SB 29 demonstrate the petty and cruel ways that Texas officials use the lives of trans kids to score political points without regard to the actual human impact,” said HRC Texas State Director Rebecca Marques (@_RebeccaMarques, she/her). “Texas legislators introduced more than two dozen discriminatory anti-LGBTQ bills, more than in any other state this year. Passing discriminatory legislation is a time-consuming endeavor, and the Texas legislature certainly has better uses for its time, especially this year.” More from HRC.
MAINE LAWMAKERS COME TOGETHER IN SUPPORT OF LGBTQ YOUTH’S MENTAL HEALTH: As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to an end and we enter into Pride Month, Maine lawmakers created a video to support the LGBTQ community. “No one should feel that suicide is their only option, but the sad truth is that far too many teenagers who identify as LGBTQ are struggling and do not feel safe or welcome,” the Maine Delegation said. This is one effort on behalf of Maine’s new “Let’s talk about it” campaign, which aims to destigmatize mental health concerns. More from News Center Maine.
📺 GET CULTURED
STONEWALL INN’S VIRTUAL CONCERT TO INCLUDE BILLY EICHNER, NANCY PELOSI AND AMY POEHLER: To celebrate Pride Month, the Stonewall Inn is holding a virtual concert to celebrate with celebrities including Billy Eichner (@billyeichner), Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) and Amy Poehler. More from NBC.
OPENLY LGBTQ COAST GUARD RUNNER SETS SCHOOL RECORD IN TRACK MEET: Josiah Davis (@Josiah_Davis) broke the record for the fastest 800 meter run the day after graduating from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. In his coming out story, Davis affirmed that being an openly gay man has made him a better athlete. More from Out Sports.
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