PFLAG National Philanthropic Partners are #PFLAGProud

This June, more than 20 companies will proudly lend support to PFLAG National to raise awareness and celebrate PFLAG’s 50th anniversary year with special LGBTQ+ Pride Month campaigns. Many of PFLAG’s year-round philanthropic partners that engage deeply to promote workplace inclusion and fuel PFLAG’s mission have produced special products and opportunities for this Pride season. Fans and supporters of PFLAG can show their LGBTQ+ pride and allyship by supporting these companies during the month of June and all year long.

"This has been a challenging year for LGBTQ+ people and their families, and each of PFLAG National’s Pride Partners not only recognizes these challenges, but steps up for their employees and PFLAG families in meaningful ways,” said Brian K. Bond, Executive Director of PFLAG National.  “We are proud to work with each of our Pride Partners, during LGBTQ+ Pride Month and all year long.”

PFLAG’s 2023 Pride Partners include:

• Apple: Apple is a proud supporter of PFLAG National. Celebrating the ongoing movement to protect and advance equality for LGBTQ+ communities around the world, Apple is introducing a new Pride Edition Sport Band accompanied by a matching watch face and iOS wallpaper. The new Pride Celebration watch face and iOS wallpaper honor the combined strength and mutual support of the LGBTQ+ community. 

• Bobo’s Oat Bars: Bobo’s Oat Bars is committed to bringing people home and making them feel like family. Since 2003, Bobo’s has made baked goods that are handmade, from clean and wholesome ingredients, and baked with an extra helping of love. Because Bobo’s passion is keeping families happy, healthy, nourished, and smiling every day, Bobo’s is proud to support and partner with PFLAG National. 

• Calm: LGBTQ+ mental health is health. Calm is passionate about empowering LGBTQ+ people to be their most authentic selves, and providing them, and their loved ones, educational and mental health resources. Calm is proud to provide PFLAG National with $10,000 and to partner with PFLAG National to distribute affirmation stickers designed by @BlesstheMessy to PFLAG chapters for Pride events across the country.

• Chambord: Chambord believes in celebrating Pride all year round, through alliances with PFLAG National, partnerships with LGBTQ icons like Karamo Brown (Netflix’s Queer Eye & The Karamo Brown Show), and engaging with the community in authentic and purposeful Activations. This summer is no exception, aligning with 3 major cities to raise national awareness and benefit PFLAG National. This summer, Chambord is activating high energy and engaging cocktail making classes in New York, Miami, and Austin. Hosted by Queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race - guests are welcomed in to create a Pride themed cocktail with Chambord where you can sip, smile and celebrate Pride.

• Give & Go: Give & Go is always thinking ahead and believes that together we continue to pave the way for a better tomorrow. In honor of Pride month, Give & Go has created limited editions of the Kimberley’s Bakeshoppe Frosted Sugar Cookies, and pledges to donate up to $10,000 of June sales to PFLAG National. Learn more at https://www.giveandgo.com. 

• J.Crew: J.Crew is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year and excited to partner with PFLAG National for its 50th.  Through its Garments for Good program, J.Crew uses its creative resources to lend support, designing t-shirts and other items to sell online at jcrew.com and factory.jcrew.com, and at J.Crew and J.Crew Factory stores, donating 50 percent of the retail price to PFLAG National up to $50,000.

• L’Occitane: L’Occitane believes in being positive and authentic, being ready to listen and showing consideration for others in order to move forward together. That’s why L’Occitane and PFLAG National are proud to partner all year round. The partnership is kicking off for the second year in a row with L’Occitane donating 5% of total online and in-store sales to PFLAG National for Pride Month.

• Mala and Mantra: Designed with intention. Consciously created. Mala and Mantra is proud to partner with PFLAG National through the launch of their Pride Collection. Each mala bracelet has a mantra intended to help support your self-transformation journey and draw you closer to your true soul. The Pride collection malas are more than stylish accessories, but a symbol of hope and solidarity to the LGBTQ+ community. All year round, Mala and Mantra will donate 10% of proceeds from the sale of the Unconditional Love bracelet to PFLAG National

• Michaels: At Michaels stores, everyone is welcome at the craft table and believe we are all better together. PFLAG National is proud to partner with Michaels and during the month of June, Michaels will donate a portion of the proceeds from the sale of their Pride Merchandise Assortment to support the life-changing work of PFLAG National.

• New Belgium: New Belgium has been an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community for over 20 years. As a part of the Brewed for All Campaign, New Belgium is proud to collaborate with Total Wine & More to support PFLAG National during the month of June. New Belgium will donate $1 per case sold at Total Wine & More locations nationwide, up to $5,000. 

• Serif: Serif is the first social organization and club intentionally created for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, leaders, and creators. Serif gathers regularly to provide engaging events that bring together inspirational messages, members of LGBTQ+ community, and inclusive brands. PFLAG National is proud to be Serif’s nonprofit beneficiary, starting with their Drag Queen Story Hour earlier this year. 

• Shake Shack: Shake Shack’s mission has always been to Stand for Something Good. Shake Shack and PFLAG National are proud to team up for the Sprinkled with Pride campaign. During the month of June, in stores and online, add sprinkles to any shake for 50 cents and support PFLAG National. 

• Shop Queer Co.: Shop Queer Co. is an independent bookshop that splits profits with queer authors, doubling their income from the sale of a book. PFLAG National is proud to partner with Shop Queer Co. to provide the Read With Love book club. As anti-LGBTQ+ book bans sweep across the country, Shop Queer Co. is about to hit the road with their ‘bookmobile’ to bring queer books to places that need them most. Shop Queer Co. will donate 20% of proceeds from the Read With Love Book club titles to PFLAG National. 

• Sperry: A proud partner of PFLAG National, Sperry has built a legacy of effortless, heritage products for over 85 years. Sperry’s 2023 Pride Collection is inspired by PFLAG’s 50th anniversary and showcases shoes spanning the last five decades, each one inspired by Pride flags: the original 1978 Pride Flag, the Transgender Pride Flag, the Bi+ Pride Flag, the Lesbian Pride Flag, and the Progress Pride Flag. Made to celebrate 50 years of leading with love, these shoes are designed to let your colors fly.

• Sweet Earth: Be kind to yourself, others, and the planet. Sweet Earth’s holistic approach to food and the environment always includes welcoming the authenticity of the people around us. PFLAG National is a natural partner because the organization envisions a world where diversity is celebrated, and all people are respected, valued, and affirmed, inclusive of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. Sweet Earth is proudly committed to creating an equitable and inclusive world for all. Find Sweet Earth products near you.

• ULTA: In honor of Pride Month and beyond, Ulta Beauty is proud to support PFLAG National in their efforts to advance equality and unite members of LGBTQ+ community and their families and allies. PFLAG National is a dedicated partner to the diversity & inclusion team at Ulta Beauty, who are thrilled to highlight all the ways they advance LGBTQ+ equality. 

This list names just some of PFLAG National’s many Pride Partners. Find out more and shop your favorite Pride looks at PFLAG.org/PridePartners.

Join OBC and Rainbow Elders for an Inclusive LGBTQ+ Mixer for Individuals 50+ and Allies

Join OBC and Rainbow Elders for their annual mixer, a welcoming event for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies aged 50 and older. Younger partners are also encouraged to attend! 

To ensure adequate arrangements for food and drinks, click this link to RSVP. The mixer will be held at the community center, with food and drinks provided. 

The Boulder County Area Agency on Aging is co-hosting the event, and the organizers express their gratitude for their support. The venue is fully accessible on the first floor for individuals with mobility challenges. For any inquiries, Kyl Caragol (he/him) can be contacted at kcaragol@outboulder.org. Explore more about Boulder County Pride Month at outboulder.org/pride.

WalletHub Study: Denver Is 2023’s 6th Best City for Hockey Fans WalletHub Study

Source: WalletHub

With the 2023 Stanley Cup Finals kicking off on June 3 and the NHL projected to have a record $5.7 billion in revenue this season, the personal-finance website WalletHub today released its report on 2023's Best Cities for Hockey Fans, as well as expert commentary.

To determine the best places for hockey spectators, WalletHub compared 75 U.S. cities based on two divisional categories, professional and college hockey, across 21 key metrics. The data set ranges from the performance level of the city’s teams to minimum season ticket prices to stadium capacity.

Hockey Fandom in Denver (1=Best; 38=Avg.):

• 3^rd – Performance Level of NHL Team
• 7^th – Performance Level of NCAA (Div. I Men’s) Team
• 7^th – Avg. Ticket Price for NHL Game
• 17^th – Min. Season Ticket Price for NCAA Game
• 15^th – NHL Stadium Capacity
• 6^th – Number of NHL Stanley Cup Wins
• 9^th – NHL Attendance
• 15^th – NHL Team Franchise Value
• 13^th – NHL Fan Engagement

Human Rights Campaign: Pride is More than a Parade

Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization, is marking the first day of Pride Month 2023, with a video message that centers the crisis facing the LGBTQ+ community, particularly transgender and nonbinary people, and emphasizes the importance of activism during Pride.

 

Human Rights Campaign President, Kelley Robinson released the following statement:

 

“This Pride month is about centering our defiant joy. Despite those who are trying to silence us, to push us back into the closet, to erase us under the law, we march and dance in the streets in celebration of one another and of our community.

 

“Far-right lawmakers across the country have waged war on our transgender community in a highly coordinated, well-funded attack rooted in misinformation that has led to the introduction of over 500 anti-LGBTQ+ state bills this past legislative season alone. And in this heightened environment, when we need everyone to stand firm with the LGBTQ+ community, some corporations are cowering in the face of a firestorm of anti-trans sentiment stoked by right-wing extremists.

 

“This is a moment of crisis for our community and our country. But with crisis always comes reckoning. And with reckoning comes the opportunity for bold and transformative change. Together, we will get to a world where we are free and liberated—without exception.”

 

In light of recent events, the corporate community must reject and speak out against anti-LGBTQ+ extremism going into Pride Month, and stand firm in their commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. Last week, HRC released a statement condemning Target’s decision to pull their Pride merchandise off the shelves due to conservative backlash. This happened on the heels of HRC suspending Anheuser-Busch's Corporate Equality Index (CEI) score due to their response to the disturbing, horrific backlash against transgender social media influencer, Dylan Mulvaney’s, beer can campaign. HRC is urging businesses to demonstrate their support for LGBTQ+ people by joining the Count Us In pledge.

 

During the 2023 state legislative session, more than 520 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced in statehouses across the country. A total of 74 pieces of legislation have been enacted into law so far this year. More than 220 of those bills would specifically restrict the rights of transgender people, the highest number of bills targeting transgender people in a single year to date.

MAP: Insufficient Legal Safeguards Leave LGBTQ Parents Vulnerable in Over Half of US States

On LGBTQ Families Day and the beginning of Pride Month, MAP and four other LGBTQ equality organizations have released a report calling for critical updates to state parentage laws to protect children and our families.

World of Wonder Announces The Queens of "Drag Race France" S2

Excusez-moi! Today, World of Wonder has announced the 11 fabulous French queens who are ready to compete for the crown on the second season of “Drag Race France.” The show will exclusively air on WOW Presents Plus in the US and select territories worldwide, day-and-date with its local airing on France TV’s SLASH. Release date to be announced soon. 

“RuPaul’s Drag Race” S12 alum, Nicky Doll, returns to host the second season alongside returning resident judges – actress and TV host, Daphné Bürki, and French DJ and LGBTQ+ activist, Kiddy Smile.

The cast hitting the drag catwalk in hopes of winning the crown are:

Cookie Kunty - 29
For Cookie Kunty, drag is a family affair since she discovered the art of drag with her sister, who also performs. Born in Montreal, Cookie started drag 7 years ago. She is one of the pioneers of the renewal of the French drag scene. Thanks to her numerous parties which are now classics of the scene (like the Jeudis Barrés and the Drag Me Up contest), Cookie quickly became a recognizable figure. She is also one of the first queens able to make it a full-time career. Today, Cookie has a successful career in film and television. She played the main character in the movie "Three Nights a Week" which was released in 2022, and earned her a preselection spot for the Césars Awards in the “Meilleur Espoir Masculin” (best male breakout star) category.

Ginger Bitch - 44
Born in Caen, Ginger Bitch is now the queen of the south of France. Ginger resides in Nice, and while she’s only been doing drag for three years she has quickly stood out for her ease with the microphone, which opened doors to many establishments in Nice (Sunset, Insta Bar, Red Kafé, Omega Club, Rainbow Power, etc.), and all over France. Through her drag, Ginger Bitch wants to show that there is no age or physical criteria to make your dreams come true, and that everything is possible when you take a chance on yourself.

Keiona - 31
Keiona began in  drag by dancing and voguing in the Parisian ballroom 10 years ago. She is now considered a legend in the French ballroom scene, and is recognized worldwide for her explosive stage performances and her strong fashion taste. Her drag name is derived from her niece, who was born two years before she started in the scene. Keiona has been performing in Parisian cabarets with the King Chefs and Drag Queens since 2020. Keiona was also part of Mathilde Delahaye's show NICKEL, which played to sold-out audiences throughout France in late 2019.

Kitty Space - 27
Kitty Space is a French drag queen of Vietnamese descent. She first dressed up in drag for a Halloween party in 2019 and hasn't stopped since. A professional stylist, she quickly gained recognition for her looks and makeup, each more incredible than the last. Kitty also uses her art to highlight Asian culture and to fight stereotypes. Incredibly involved in the scene, Kitty now performs in bars, clubs, contests, brunches, festivals and other drag shows throughout France including The Brunch and Queen, the Drag me Up, Solidays, La Purple, and La Bitch Party.

Mami Watta - 24
Mami Watta started performing drag in Ivory Coast, where she is originally from. A law student now living in Saint-Denis, she quickly has let her love for drag guide her life. Mami Watta has already distinguished herself in the House of LaDurée, the first French ballroom house, where her inspired looks and performances are as sexy as they are powerful. After the ballroom scene, Mami joined the most iconic Parisian shows (La Purple, La Boîte à Bijoux, la Blue Velvet, etc.). Her drag name comes from an African goddess who provokes “deviant behaviors”; by choosing to wear that name, she transforms what is considered a curse into liberation.

Moon - 31
Originally from Geneva, Switzerland, Moon is the first Swiss contestant in the Drag Race franchise. She has been involved with drag for 6 years, and notably within the Genevas collective which organized queer parties throughout Switzerland. A well rounded artist, she considers herself as "a creature of the night". She releases all her creativity in unique performances that mix fashion, painting, and lip syncs. As transgender woman, Moon uses the art of drag as a platform to celebrate trans identity. Today, she performs mainly in Geneva, but also throughout Switzerland, Iceland, Kosovo, the United Kingdom and France, especially in the Grenoble area.

Piche - 26
Despite her young age, Piche has a long resume. She is a singer, dancer, actress, and has walked the runway for Gaultier as part of Jean Paul Gaultier's Fashion Freak Show in 2018, where she discovered drag for the first time, playing Conchita Wurst’s lookalike. In drag, Piche puts to work all her stage and fashion skills but also her history of gypsy and Algerian origins ("piche" is a gypsy word for "phallus.") Her style plays with gender constructs, mixing the ultra feminine and the ultra masculine, the folklore and the modern. As a dancer, Piche has performed at the Ballet National de Marseille, the Opera Grand Avignon, the Folies Bergères and the Paradis Latin, in England, Russia, and Italy. She is now part of the Fantasma Circus Erotica show.

Punani - 32
Punani started doing drag in 2013 at the same time as her childhood best friend, Rose, who is also on this season of “Drag Race France”. Together, they are the famous duo Rose & Punani, and for the first time will have to compete against each other instead of together. As a duo, Rose and Punani became a staple in Parisian fashion and parties, but their presence is especially well-known on social media, where they post funny trending videos highlighting their love of vintage fashion. Ever since she was a child, Punani was inspired by horror B-movies, the 80s, and musicals;she is a true visual artist who upcycles second-hand fashions. Punani impresses crowds with her outfits and performances which mix pop culture, irony and extravagance. Outside of drag, Punani has been a recognized photographer for over 10 years, and regularly collaborates with French and international press as well as with many artists.

Rose - 32
Paris-based Rose has a day job as a Psychologist. Not only does she have  a 20-year friendship with contestant Punani, the duo have been performing partners for a decade. Together, Punani and Rose have performed in big venues all over France including Queen Club, La Nouvelle Eve, La Gaîté Lyrique, La Machine du Moulin Rouge or Le Grand Rex. On “Drag Race France” S2, Punani and Rose will be competing against each other for the first time ever. Legend has it that Rose got her drag name from the town where she grew up: L'Haÿ-les-Roses. Rose was a theater performer until the age of 22, where she mostly played female characters with exaggerated personalities. A true queen of comedy, Rose uses her acting talents in viral social media sketches, especially in support of organizations  that are close to her heart including AIDS, Octobre Rose, France Alzheimer, etc.

Sara Forever - 33
Originally from Bordeaux, Sara Forever has been involved in the world of drag for almost 3 years. As a performer and choreographer, her clothing and routines mix popular culture and experimental worlds together. Sara was introduced to drag for the first time while performing in "Le Sacre du Printemps Arabe", a piece by Marlene Saldana and Jonathan Drillet, and has had only one desire since: to continue to perform in drag. Drag also represents her social revenge: coming from an environment without gay pride and where going on stage seemed inaccessible, Sara wants to show that anyone can follow their dreams, no matter where they come from. Sara Forever has also created a one-woman drag show on the topic of success, inspired by her mother.

Vespi - 23
Starting her drag journey 3 ½ years ago, Vespi’s name comes from her admiration for wasps, particularly the appreciation for their “waist”. Vespi is a true beauty and style queen who is a big disco lover. In the French drag scene, She quickly made a name for herself with her breathtaking looks, and has been featured in prestigious advertising campaigns for MAC and Visa, and a guest appearance in Emily in Paris.

Drag Race France is produced by Endemol France, and executive produced by World of Wonder. Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, and RuPaul Charles serve as executive producers.

HRC and Gilead Sciences Collaborate to Expand Transformational HIV & Health Equity Programs for Black and Latiné LGBTQ+ Communities

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization, is proud to announce the expansion of its work -- supported by a three-year, $5 million grant from Gilead Sciences, Inc. -- to eradicate the stigma surrounding HIV in Black and Latiné communities and end the HIV epidemic by 2030.

In the first two years of this partnership, Gilead supported the transformational programming of HRC Foundation’s HIV and Health Equity Program, its Historically Black Colleges & Universities Program, and its Transgender Justice Initiative. Collectively, these three minority-led teams advanced critical educational tools through in-person and digital efforts reaching 14 million people, advanced leadership development efforts for dozens of emerging Black, Indigenous, and People of Color LGBTQ+ leaders, and supported more than 100 community-based organizations. In addition to continuing this work, the HIV and Health Equity team will develop a one-of-a-kind innovative benchmarking tool for institutions that provide HIV services, helping better evaluate the quality of care and measure racially and socially inclusive approaches. The team will engage community-based organizations, health departments, and private HIV service providers to develop a comprehensive benchmarking tool and define best practices, policies, and procedures to optimize HIV service provision for BIPOC LGBTQ+ communities.

“Since the beginning of the HIV epidemic, racism and anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination have created dangerous hurdles for those seeking prevention or treatment,” said Kelley Robinson, President of the Human Rights Campaign. “With the generous support of Gilead Sciences, we’ll be able to continue providing critical resources to help overcome these hurdles, especially focusing on Black and Latiné communities in the U.S. South. We’ll also be able to expand our efforts, as we seek to remove institutional barriers often unknowingly created by HIV service providers. We must decrease the disparities that place an unnecessary burden on Black and Latiné LGBTQ+ people and people living with HIV.”

“Gilead is committed to advancing health equity, particularly in Black communities and other communities of color that are disproportionately affected by HIV,” said Deborah H. Telman, Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs and General Counsel. “This grant will build on the impactful work HRC has done with community partners and HBCUs to increase awareness of HIV treatment and prevention options and reduce health disparities, combat discrimination and fight stigma. By working together, we can help end the HIV epidemic for everyone, everywhere.”

This partnership is an extension of Gilead’s $3.2 million grant given to the HRC Foundation in 2021. With $5 million over the next three years, this grant is the largest in the HRC Foundation’s history.

Pride Month Event: Defying the Nazi Campaign to Control Sexuality - A Virtual Commemoration by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

A 1926 scene from Berlin’s Eldorado, a nightclub popular with LGBTQ+ people that was shut down by the Nazis in 1933. bpk-Bildagentur

In celebration of Pride Month, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is organizing a Facebook Live virtual event titled "Pride Month: Defying the Nazi Campaign to Control Sexuality." This event aims to shed light on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals during the 1930s and '40s under the Nazi regime in Germany.

Taking place on Thursday, June 1, at 9:30 a.m. ET, the event will delve into the history of Berlin during that time, when it was considered the most progressive city in the world for its views on sexuality and gender. Berlin was home to the renowned Institute for Sexual Science, a leading center for research and education on these topics.

However, the Nazi regime imposed strict measures, closing down LGBTQ+ meeting places, organizations, and publications. One well-known example was the El Dorado nightclub, a popular gathering spot for LGBTQ+ individuals, which was transformed into a headquarters for the Nazi Stormtroopers.

The virtual event will explore these historical events and feature discussions led by Dr. Edna Friedberg, a historian from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, and Dr. Mark Alexander, another historian from the same institution.

The event aims to commemorate Pride Month and highlight the resilience and rebellion of LGBTQ+ individuals during Nazi rule. It serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for LGBTQ+ rights and celebrating the diverse and inclusive society we strive to create.

To participate in the Facebook Live virtual event and learn more about this significant chapter in LGBTQ+ history, interested individuals can visit the Museum's online calendar at https://www.ushmm.org/online-calendar/event/vefblvpridemth0601. The event will be recorded and made available for viewing immediately.

Provocative LGBTQA+ Thriller 'Horseplay' Gallops onto Screens This June, Pushing Boundaries of Masculinity and Homophobia

 

Acclaimed LGBTQA+ thriller Horseplay, hot from a range of celebrated festival screenings, will release in theaters, digital and DVD this June from Dark Star Pictures.
 
A boundary pushing look at masculinity, homophobia and sexuality, Horseplay is the latest film from critically acclaimed filmmaker Marco Berger (Mariposa, Taekwondo). It stars Bruno Giganti, Agustin Machta, Franco De La Puente, Ivan Masliah.
 
In the hot Argentine summer, a group of friends get together to enjoy the holiday. They drink, party hard and make videos together. A rare mix of homophobia and horseplay comes together, however under the surface jealousy and violence begin to emerge. A twisted triangle of friends between a repressed gay, a secret bisexual boy and a homophobe will push tensions to the limit.
 
Horseplay will hit theaters June 2 before releasing on DVD and Digital June 13.

The Boy with the Faster Brain Named 2023 National Parenting Product Award Winner

The Boy with the Faster Brain, (March 2023/Softcover and ebook) Peter Shankman’s new book that helps parents and children navigate the scary and confusing world of ADHD, has been named winner of the National Parenting Products Award for 2023.  Integrity and honesty are at the core of NAPPA Awards' mission. For over 33 years, the National Parenting Product Awards (NAPPA) has been ensuring that parents purchase the highest quality products that help them connect and enjoy time with their families.

 

Peter Shankman realized a long time ago that his ADHD was responsible for most, if not all his success. After starting and selling three companies and writing five best-selling books (including Faster Than Normal, which in five years has become the bible of ADHD and productivity), Peter decided it was time to write a book that focused on children—one that would teach them that ADHD, and all forms of neurodiversity, can be gifts, and not a curse—as long as they understand how to use them.

 

That’s what The Boy with the Faster Brain is about. Meet Peter, his mom and dad, and Dr. Lisa, who together help Peter navigate the confusing and scary world of ADHD.  Working together, Peter comes to understand that he has a faster brain than other kids and why having that can be the best thing a child could ask for.  The story helps parents explain to children with any type of neurodiversity issues that there is nothing wrong with them in a way they can understand. The story explains that Peter’s faster brain is like a race car.  With the help of his parents and Dr. Lisa, Peter learns how to effectively “drive” his brain.  The important message in the book is that children with ADHD and other forms of neurodiversity are not broken, they are brilliant and learning how to harness their faster brains opens up a world of possibilities.

Outright International Celebrates 27th Annual Celebration of Courage Awards and Gala

Outright International, a leading organization advocating for LGBTIQ human rights, is gearing up for its highly anticipated 27th Celebration of Courage awards and gala. This prestigious event will honor remarkable individuals and organizations making significant contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. Among the honorees are the Eastern Caribbean Alliance for Diversity and Equality (ECADE), Google.org, and the talented cast and production team of Paramount+'s Star Trek: Discovery.

The star-studded evening will be hosted by the fabulous Bebe Zahara Benet from RuPaul's Drag Race. Attendees will include notable figures such as Wilson Cruz, Blu del Barrio, and Anthony Rapp from Star Trek: Discovery, along with Jess Bush, Melissa Navia, and Celia Rose Gooding from Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Other esteemed guests include Lea DeLaria, Alyson Palmer, Elizabeth Ziff, Amy Ziff, Frederic Chen, Mrs. Kasha Davis, Kenita Placide, and Lysanne Charles.

Outright International is a global organization dedicated to strengthening the LGBTIQ human rights movement, documenting and amplifying human rights violations, and advocating for inclusion and equality. With a presence in over a dozen countries, Outright collaborates with the United Nations, regional human rights bodies, civil society organizations, corporations, and philanthropic partners to bring about meaningful change. The organization holds consultative status at the United Nations and serves as the secretariat of the UN LGBTI Core Group.

The Celebration of Courage Awards and Gala attracts influential individuals and allies who are passionate about LGBTQ+ rights and equality. It brings together supporters from civil society, media, politics, business, finance, and philanthropy. These esteemed stakeholders are at the forefront of Outright's mission, deeply committed to making a difference both nationally and globally.

Stay tuned for an inspiring evening celebrating courage, resilience, and progress in the fight for LGBTIQ rights at Outright International's 27th Celebration of Courage Awards and Gala.

Colorado ManREACH's 2023 Summer Gathering: Embrace Nature and Connection

Get ready to embark on a transformative journey at the upcoming Summer Gathering hosted by Colorado ManREACH. From June 30 to July 2, 2023, this enriching event will take place at the stunning La Foret Retreat, nestled in the scenic Black Forest just north of Colorado Springs.

La Foret Retreat, a hidden gem spread across 440 acres of pine-covered hills, offers a serene and captivating setting for this gathering. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the retreat's unique features, including the historic Ponderosa Lodge, Taylor Memorial Chapel, a mesmerizing stone labyrinth, and breathtaking views of Pikes Peak.

The Summer Gathering is designed for gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer men who have been fully vaccinated for COVID-19. The safety and well-being of all participants are of utmost importance, and proof of vaccination, including the booster shot, will be required.

Accommodations at the Indian Paintbrush cabin will provide a comfortable and welcoming space for attendees. With a spacious living room, dining area, and full kitchen, the cabin can accommodate up to 18 individuals in a bunkhouse-style setup. For those who prefer camping, that option is also available.

Registration for this two-night event is only $175 per person, which includes lodging, delicious meals, engaging workshops, and a range of activities that will foster personal growth and connection.

Colorado ManREACH understands the value of inclusivity and is committed to ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder anyone's participation. Therefore, a limited number of scholarships are available to assist those in need. To learn more about scholarship opportunities and to register for the Summer Gathering, click here.

Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, forge meaningful connections, and embark on a transformative journey. Join Colorado ManREACH at La Foret Retreat for an unforgettable Summer Gathering from June 30 to July 2, 2023.

Join NoCo SafeSpace for the 5th Annual #PrideMarch in Fort Collins, Colorado!

Mark your calendars for June 1st as NoCo SafeSpace proudly presents the 5th annual Fort Collins PrideMarch, a spectacular event to kick off this year's pride season!

Come together with the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community of Fort Collins and allies to celebrate love, diversity, and inclusivity. This empowering march is an opportunity for everyone, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, to show their support and solidarity.

Stonewall Day Unplugged, Featuring Netta, Hosted by Pride Live + Hudson Yards

Tomorrow, May 31, at 12PM EST, Pride Live will be hosting a livestream performance/conversation with Netta, Sudie, and Mariyea for the return of Stonewall Day Unplugged. The event is sponsored by lead partner Hudson Yards and streaming partner Google.

Take the 2023 LGBTQ Community Survey

Take a few minutes to participate in the 17th Annual LGBTQ Community Survey!

For nearly two decades, this survey has provided free data to help non-profits, universities, media, organizations, and businesses better understand and serve the LGBTQ community. The report will be published on the CMI website for free download. Previous surveys have attracted 30,000+ participants.    

Everyone who completes the survey by June 10, 2023 may enter into a drawing to win one of twenty US $100 gift e-card prizes, or if you win, you may donate your prize to an LGBTQ charity of your choice. 

The survey should take 15 to 20 minutes to complete as it covers many important topics for our community.

To begin the survey, CLICK HERE.