THE9. Queer News. Lesbian and Transgender Groups Clash, Amazon Removes DEI Page, and more.

Your weekly guide to the queer media. Every Wednesday.

As usual… 5.5 minutes to read. A weekly digest of the most important queer news in your backyard!

Every Wednesday THE9 is edited by me, Taylor Abbot, with the support of the GAY45 editorial team.

If you want to hear the most essential news commented on in-depth, you can listen to our podcast, GenClash: Queer Perspectives on Current Affairs. Let us know what you think about it.

If you have a comment or a suggestion, write to me at [email protected]

Lebians battle transgenders and then…

Matthew Shepard was murdered in 1998 at the age of 21 because he was gay.

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The USA. Politics. Trump Administration Erases References to Matthew Shepard

The Trump administration has removed dozens of LGBTQ+ pages from the White House website, including tributes to Nex Benedict, a trans teenager of Choctaw descent, and Matthew Shepard, a hate crime victim. The horrible act of deleting memorial pages followed President Trump’s inauguration. Former President Biden’s statements honoring Benedict and Shepard, archived on The Wayback Machine, highlighted their tragic deaths due to anti-LGBTQ+ violence. Biden had called for stronger protections against bullying and hate crimes, emphasising the importance of inclusivity. Other removed content includes Biden’s executive orders on trans military inclusion, LGBTQ+ anti-discrimination measures, and proclamations for Pride Month and Transgender Day of Visibility. Trump’s anticipated reinstatement of the trans military ban signals a broader rollback of LGBTQ+ protections, sparking backlash from advocacy groups. Critics argue these actions undermine years of progress toward equality.

Symbolic image: Arrest of a young man (Image: IMAGO / Pressedienst Nord)

Symbolic image: Arrest of a young man (Image: IMAGO / Pressedienst Nord)

Germany. Justice. Five Teenagers Arrested for Targeting Queer People in Robbery Scheme

Authorities in the Main-Taunus district have arrested five male juveniles accused of luring queer individuals into ambushes via dating platforms and attacking them. Police revealed on Tuesday that the suspects allegedly targeted victims based on their sexual identity, robbing and, in some instances, physically assaulting them. Details regarding injuries sustained by the victims remain undisclosed, and further information about the suspects has not been released. Investigators are currently examining eight cases and have not ruled out the possibility of additional victims. The arrests mark a significant step in addressing violence against queer communities in the region. Police encourage anyone with information to come forward.

Members of Thailand's LGBTQ+ community hold flags that read "Marriage equality, love wins", as they celebrate the passing of the marriage equality bill in Bangkok, Thailand, June 18, 2024. REUTERS/Chalinee Thirasupa

Members of Thailand’s LGBTQ+ community hold flags that read “Marriage equality, love wins”, as they celebrate the passing of the marriage equality bill in Bangkok, Thailand, June 18, 2024. REUTERS/Chalinee Thirasupa

Worldwide. Human Rights. Context Review on LGBT Rights in 2025

The year 2025 promises a mixed landscape for LGBTQ+ rights, with significant milestones and troubling developments worldwide, reposts Context. Notable progress includes Liechtenstein legalizing same-sex marriage and Czechia recognizing civil unions on January 1. Brazil may formalize same-sex marriage through legislation, while Montenegro debates trans self-identification. Globally, the UN will address intersex discrimination in September. Setbacks loom, with Ghana’s president poised to sign an anti-LGBTQ+ bill and Liberia debating life imprisonment for “aggravated homosexuality.” In the U.S., over 570 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were tracked last year, with a pivotal Supreme Court ruling on trans rights expected in June. Japan anticipates key court rulings on marriage equality, and Europe awaits decisions influencing non-binary protections. The fight for equality continues in a polarized world.

Police raid in Moscow. Photo: Facebook.

Police raid in Moscow. Photo: Facebook.

Russia. Politics. Activist Fined Under LGBT Propaganda Laws for Satirical Post

A Moscow court fined Anton Yevdokimov, a pro-democracy activist, 100,000 rubles (€800) for violating Russia’s LGBT propaganda laws. Yevdokimov jokingly claimed on social media to be the founder of the “international LGBT movement,” which Russia’s Supreme Court declared an extremist terrorist organization in 2023. In his satirical VKontakte post, Yevdokimov mocked the ruling, writing, “I irradiate all homophobes with rainbows!” He was already in detention for another post allegedly “justifying terrorism” when the fine was imposed. Since the extremist designation, Russian authorities have intensified crackdowns on LGBT activities, including a recent police raid on a Yakutsk restaurant accused of hosting queer and transgender performers. Activists have decried the escalating repression.

Lesbian Action Group. Photo: X and News Channel Screenshot.

Lesbian Action Group. Photo: X and News Channel Screenshot.

Australia. Justice. Lesbian Group Loses Legal Battle to Exclude Transgender and Bisexual Women

The Lesbian Action Group (LAG), a Victorian-based organisation, has lost its two-year bid to exclude transgender and bisexual women from its publicly advertised events. The group sought a five-year exemption under the Sex Discrimination Act, arguing for the need to preserve lesbian-only spaces. Both the Australian Human Rights Commission and the Administrative Review Tribunal rejected their request, citing anti-discrimination protections. Spokeswoman Carole Ann called the decision “devastating,” stating, “Without an exemption, we are back in the closet.” The Tribunal noted that LAG’s application sought to “actively discriminate against another group identifiable by their gender identity.” Despite the setback, the group is considering further appeals and vows to continue its fight for exclusive lesbian spaces.

Ghanaian President John Mahama. Photo official Instagram account.

Ghanaian President John Mahama. Photo official Instagram account.

Ghana. Politics. Advocacy Groups Welcome End of Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill

Advocacy groups in Ghana have praised President John Mahama’s announcement that the controversial Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill is effectively dead. Speaking to the Ghana Catholic Bishop’s Conference on Jan. 14, Mahama confirmed the bill, which criminalised LGBTQ+ identities and allyship, expired when parliament dissolved. Mahama emphasized the importance of teaching family values through education, rather than legislation. LGBT Rights Ghana called this a hopeful step toward addressing systemic discrimination, while urging caution over the proposed curriculum’s content. Activist Yaw Mensah said, “Mahama is indirectly saying LGBTQ+ persons are not Ghana’s problems. Ghanaian values should embody tolerance, respect, and integrity—not discrimination.” The decision marks a potential shift in Ghana’s approach to LGBTQ+ issues.

Challengers. Photo MGM

Challengers. Photo MGM

The USA. Film. Queer Films and Performances Snubbed in 2025 Oscars Shortlist

The 2025 Oscars shortlist has left several acclaimed queer films and performances without recognition, sparking disappointment among critics and audiences. Notably absent is Netflix’s Will & Harper, a documentary exploring Will Ferrell and Harper Steele’s evolving friendship following Steele’s transition. Despite critical acclaim and a prior spot on the Best Documentary shortlist, the film failed to secure a nomination. Daniel Craig’s lauded performance in Queer and Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers were also overlooked, with neither film receiving nominations despite early buzz. While Emilia Pérez earned 13 nominations, marking progress for trans representation, broader recognition for queer storytelling remains limited. The Oscars will take place on March 3, leaving fans debating the academy’s commitment to diverse narratives after Trump inauguration.

Thai actors Both and Newyear have announced their engagement. (@newyear_kitiwhut/Instagram)

Thai actors Both and Newyear have announced their engagement. (@newyear_kitiwhut/Instagram)

Thailand. Politics. Celebration in a Historic Day as Same-Sex Marriage Becomes Legal

Thailand has officially legalized same-sex marriage, with over 1,400 LGBTQ+ couples expected to marry today, marking a historic moment for queer rights in the country. This makes Thailand the first Southeast Asian nation to cement equal marriage. The new law, passed last June, redefines marriage as a union between two individuals, offering LGBTQ+ couples the same rights as heterosexual couples, including adoption, tax benefits, and medical decision-making rights. Couples are registering across Bangkok, with a record 1,448 expected to marry today, surpassing Brazil’s 2014 record. In celebration, Boys Love actors Apiwat Apiwatsayree and Sappanyoo Panatkool are among those tying the knot. Former PM Srettha Thavisin congratulated the LGBTQ+ community for this milestone.

Amazon removes commitment to transgender and Black rights from policies. Illustration by The Washington Post

Amazon removes commitment to transgender and Black rights from policies. Illustration by The Washington Post

Worldwide. Politics & Business. Amazon Removes LGBTQ+ Rights Support Amid Shift in Corporate Policies

Amazon has removed statements supporting LGBTQ+ rights and diversity from its website, following a broader shift in corporate policies under U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration. The company eliminated pledges to support Black and LGBTQ+ communities, including references to transgender protections, which were previously featured on its site. While insurance coverage for trans employees remains intact, the company’s updated diversity section now only condemns inequitable treatment of marginalized groups. This move follows similar actions by companies like Meta and Walmart, influenced by a right-wing push to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Apple, however, has resisted the pressure, standing firm on its commitment to DEI programs.

Jacob Rostovsky. Screenshot: Channel News 3.

Jacob Rostovsky. Screenshot: Channel News 3.

The USA. Corruption. Queer Works CEO’s Assets Frozen Amid Fraud Case

A judge has ordered the assets of Jacob Rostovsky, CEO of the non-profit Queer Works, to be frozen as his fraud case advances. Rostovsky, 33, faces 53 felony charges, including grand theft, money laundering, and perjury, related to a universal basic income pilot program in Palm Springs. The charges stem from allegations of fraudulent claims and misappropriating over $840,000 in public funds meant for housing and assistance programs. Investigations revealed Rostovsky used the funds for personal expenses, including luxury purchases, and filed a fraudulent insurance claim. The CEO will return to court for a trial readiness conference on June 18.

Dean Hutton, SOFT VXNXS, sculpture. Courtesy of gay-news.nl

Dean Hutton, SOFT VXNXS, sculpture. Courtesy of gay-news.nl

The Netherlands. Art. The 2025 Amsterdam Light Festival features queer artists.

The 2025 Amsterdam Light Festival, featuring 23 artists, showcases stunning light sculptures along a 6 km route through Herengracht, Nieuwe Herengracht, and Oosterdok, all centered on the theme of “Rituals.” Highlighted works include queer South-African artists Dean Hutton’s bold inflatable sculpture SOFT VXNXS, a gender-free Venus inspired by the artist’s own body. Cédric le Borgne’s installation brings a fictional world to life with flying fish and illuminated figures. Visitors can experience the lights from 17:00 to 22:00 daily, with extended hours during the holiday season. The best views come from boat tours, offering a unique perspective of the glowing art on water.

 

Must Read of GAY45

 

Quote of the Week

For I do not love the oppressed. I love those whom I love, who are always handsome and sometimes oppressed but stand up and rebel.

— Jean Genet

 

Movie of the Week

Stephen Frears’ 1985 film My Beautiful Laundrette, penned by Hanif Kureishi, offers a provocative exploration of race and sexuality in Thatcher-era London. The narrative centres on Omar, a young British-Pakistani, who partners with his former lover, Johnny—portrayed by a compelling Daniel Day-Lewis—to revitalise a dilapidated laundrette. Kureishi’s screenplay, later published as a book, delves into the complexities of identity and societal expectations, presenting characters who defy conventional norms.

 

Book of the Week

Edmund White’s The Loves of My Life: A Sex Memoir is a candid and richly layered reflection on gay love, sex, and literary craft. At 85, White offers a non-chronological exploration of his experiences, with chapters focusing on themes such as “Sex with Straight Men” and “Sadomasochism,” as well as portraits of significant lovers. He candidly recounts his sexual awakening and the paradoxes of gay desire, providing unsentimental insights into pivotal moments like the Stonewall uprising and the AIDS crisis. Blending coquetry with serious analysis, White demonstrates his unique ability to translate libido into evocative prose, urging readers to push against prudishness toward a more open and compassionate future. 

 

Music of the Week 

British musician FKA Twigs’ throbbing feeling of euphoria is omnipresent in the title track for her highly-anticipated third album Eusexua, co-produced by Eartheater and Koreless. In the album and track alike, Twigs channels the feeling of ecstatic liberation she experienced during a techno rave in Prague. Listen on Spotify, Apple or Amazon.

 

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Author

  • Taylor Abbot (26) is the Editor-in-Chief of GAY45. He studied at the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism and is a PhD candidate in Berlin University. He is passionate about journalism, contemporary literature, poetry, technology, socio-political involved art forms and queer implications in society. He wrote previously for several magazines as Der Spiegel, Guardian Weekly, or Bay Area Reporter. Nerdy curious, passionate about the weird parts of life and the good stories written by great journalists. Lives and works between Berlin and London.

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