#Arizona LGBTQ Events

[kataklizmic]

REVIEW: “Wicked” Sing-Along Drag Brunch at Tempe Improv is Spellbinding (04-27-25)

Tempe, AZ – The Tempe Improv was the epicenter of vibrant entertainment this past Sunday as the sold-out Wicked Sing-Along Drag Brunch, hosted by the vivacious Espressa Grande, delivered a premium theatre-geek experience where urban witches and wizards crooned along to songs from the runaway musical-turned-cinema phenomenon.

[free-queer-books]

Romance Bookworms Stuff Your Kindle Day - June 20th, 2025

An enormous one-day book blast of 1600+ romance books! The link above goes directly to their list of books with LGBTQ protagonists.

The ist of the books sorted by representation is below the read-more, as this is a very long list - 277 books with LGBTQ protagonists by my count! Given the length, I'm listing only the identites that were mentioned on the event page unless I happen to know more about a specific book.

Asexual and acespec characters

One Touch by Linden Rowe - ace representation (Amazon)

Deceiving the Cursed Beast by Jen Lynning - demisexual female character (AmazonJ)

Scars of the Sun by Noelle Upton - demisexual female character

Giles Ashby Needs a Nanny by K. Sterling - demisexual character

An Epic Construct by D.C. Emerson - asexual best friend (Amazon)

Bear characters

More Reason to Stay by Ryder O'Malley (Amazon)

Bisexual and pansexual characters

Double Dare by Jeanne St. James - bisexual (multiple stores)

Upside Down by Liz Gavin - bisexual (multiple stores)

Of Boys and Games by Mona Black - bisexual (multiple stores)

Kiss Me If You Can by Cheryl Terra - bisexual (multiple stores)

Rescuing Krampus by Robin Jo Margaret - bisexual (multiple stores)

Tainted Evidence by Rachel Grant - bisexual (multiple stores)

Her Elysium by Emmy Engberts - bi/pan awakening (multiple stores)

Taking Out the Trash by Zoey Indiana - bisexual (multiple stores)

The Scottish Play by Phoebe Alexander - bisexual heroine (Amazon)

For Keeps by K.C. Everly - bi awakening (Amazon)

Knight of the Hunted by Elizabeth Dunlap - bi awakening (Amazon)

A Match Made in Evan by Anna Sparrows - bi awakening (Amazon)

Oblivion's River by Shoshana Rain - bi4bi (Amazon)

Mazikeen: Hands of Fate by M Pettengill - bisexual character (Amazon)

Unscripted by J.R. Gray - bisexual awakening (Amazon)

Step Daddy by Morticia Knight - bisexual awakening (Amazon)

Sweat Connection by Katherine McIntyre - disaster bi character (Amazon)

Something to Someone by Grace Turner (Amazon)

Becoming a Bi-con by Sarah Zane (Amazon)

The Krakan's Castaway by Cassandra Medcalf - bisexual character (Amazon)

Scars of the Sun by Noelle Upton - pansexual male character (Amazon)

The Heartbreak Show by Jesikah Sundlin - bisexual male character (Amazon)

Giles Ashby Needs a Nanny by K. Sterling - bi rep (Amazon)

Adora by A.D. Ellis - bi awakening (Amazon)

Tastes of Honey by Frances M. Thompson - bisexual character (Amazon)

Like Cracks in the Sidewalk by Sadie Jay - bi romance (Amazon)

Blood on the Ice by Cassandra Featherstone - bisexual characters (Amazon)

Freedom: What are you willing to sacrifice for love? by Cassidy Langue - bisexual (Amazon)

All the Oceans by Polly Emorie - bisexual (Amazon)

Wrapped Up In You by Melody Claire - bisexual (Amazon)

The Bully's Dare by Adora Crooks - bisexual romance (Amazon)

The Arcana Ignited by Anya Clara - bi awakening (Amazon)

The B-Side by B. Harmony - bisexual (Amazon)

Used by Shanon Elliot - bisexual female character, pansexual male character (Amazon)

Play By Heart by Ariella Zoelle - bisexual awakening (Amazon)

Hot Summer's Prey by Latrexa Nova - bisexuals (Amazon)

We Own the Stars by D.J. Russo - bisexual (Amazon)

SoloPlay by Amanda Usen - bisexual female character (Amazon)

Hunting For a Home Base by Adriana Golden - bisexual awakening (Amazon)

A Polar Expedition by Cass O'Shire - bisexual (Amazon)

Misfit Betrayal by Daria Binx - bi awakening (Amazon)

F/F books

Femme Like Her by Fiona Zedde (multiple stores)

Caught With Zeus by Arizona Tape (mulitple stores)

Reign of Secret by L.L. Hunter (multiple stores)

Alchemiya by Katey Hawthorne (multiple stores)

Mer Made by S.T. Lynn (multiple stores)

Her Purrfect Familiar by Pepper McGraw (multiple stores)

Her Elysium by Emmy Engberts (multiple stores)

A Blooming Spring Love by Emily Engberts (multiple stores)

Cursed Slumber by Luna Lockhardt (multiple stores)

Unthaw My Heart by Harmony Noble (Amazon)

Murder by Multiples by Rachel Ford (Amazon)

Level or Live by Miya Kressin (Amazon)

Their Search for Ms. Right by Janet Lee Smith (Amazon)

Becoming a Bi-con by Sarah Zane (Amazon)

Summer Love by Gemma Addison Dove (Amazon)

A Taste of Red by Stephanie Lee (Amazon)

Claimed by Her Bear by Ariel Marie (Amazon)

Infatuations by Barbara Winkes (Amazon)

Little Miss Santa Claws by Beka Westrup (Amazon)

The Paradox of Survival by Anna Lynn Hammar (Amazon)

Her Mortal Champion by Luna Lawson (Amazon)

Freedom: What are you willing to sacrifice for love? by Cassidy Langue (Amazon)

All the Oceans by Polly Emorie (Amazon)

Bitter Winds by Marina Tempest (Amazon)

Off with Her Head by Dana LeeAnn (Amazon)

Maiden Over by Renee Dahlia (Amazon)

My Carmilla by Anita Zara (Amazon)

Tangled Encounters by Madison Nicole (Amazon)

Bean There, Found You by Cameron Tate (Amazon)

Keeping Alessa by Jenna Kent (Amazon)

Mainely Books Club Collection: Books 1-4 by Chelsea M. Cameron (Amazon)

Cursed By Malignant Magic by Jenesis St. Clare (Amazon)

Truly, Madly, Deeply by Claire Dugmore (Amazon)

Lesbian Boss by Kitty Jones (Amazon)

Sigrid & Elyn by Edale Lane (Amazon)

My Valentine's Deception by Giselle Nyte (Amazon)

Candid Camera by HA Blackwood (Amazon)

Virtue by Ida Brady - contains FF, FM, and FMF scenes (Amazon)

Queen of Love by Cynthia Dane & Hildren Billings (Amazon)

The Honeymoon Mix-up by Frankie Fyre (Amazon)

F/M books

Kiss Me If You Can by Cheryl Terra (multiple stores)

Rescuing Krampus by Robin Jo Margaret (multiple stores)

Tainted Evidence by Rachel Grant (multiple stores)

Oblivion's River by Shoshana Rain (Amazon)

Deceiving the Cursed Beast by Jen Lynning (Amazon)

Something to Someone by Grace Turner (Amazon)

The Sneaky Lass by Kennedy Sutton (Amazon)

The Kraken's Castaway by Cassandra Medcalf (Amazon)

Scars of the Sun by Noelle Upton (Amazon)

The Heartbreak Show by Jesikah Sundlin (Amazon)

Diamond Heat by Jess Washoe (Amazon)

Used by Shannon Elliot (Amazon)

Hot Summer's Prey by Latrexa Nova (Amazon)

We Own the Stars by D.J. Russo (Amazon)

SoloPlay by Amanda Usen (Amazon)

A Polar Expedition by Cass O'Shire (Amazon)

Oath Keepers MC: Hybrid Collection by Sapphire Knight - MF, MMF, and MFM stores (Amazon)

Virtue by Ida Brady - contains FF, FM, and FMF scenes (Amazon)

F/NB books

Of Melodies and Maledictions by Maddox Grey (multiple stores)

A Lady's Finder by Edie Cay (multiple stores)

Femme characters

Femme Like Her by Fiona Zedde (multiple stores)

Gay characters

His Coffee Shop Crush by Elle Waters (multiple stores)

A Daddy for Christmas: Brighton by TL Travis (multiple stores)

Blood in the Water by Tami Veldura (multiple stores)

The Dragon Heir's Omega by London Kemaker (multiple stores)

My Omega's Return by Rosa Swann (multiple stores)

One Touch by Linden Rowe - gay awakening (Amazon)

More Reason to Stay by Ryder O'Malley (Amazon)

Wish We Were There by Lionel Hart (Amazon)

Hammering Hearts by Alex Danvers (Amazon)

His Fatal Love by Leighton Greene (Amazon)

Winter and the Wolves by Kinkaid Knight (Amazon)

Prince and Assassin by Tavia Lark (Amazon)

Maximus by Stella Rainbow (Amazon)

Hunted by the Omega by S. Rodman (Amazon)

Rust and Stardust by Atreus Rosewood (Amazon)

Valor on the Move by Keira Andrews (Amazon)

Friendly Skies by Marie Sinclair (Amazon)

Nova's Training by A.D. Young (Amazon)

Throwing Hearts by N.R. Walker (Amazon)

Twisted Villain by Bella Slash (Amazon)

Hollywood Slide by Cyd Sidney (Amazon)

Slapshot To The Heart by Lina George (Amazon)

Mage of the Dragon Prince by Zarina Aston (Amazon)

What You Need by Avril Ashton (Amazon)

Chasing Seth by J.R. Loveless (Amazon)

Vespertine by Leta Blake & Indra Vaughn (Amazon)

Lesbian characters

Her Elysium by Emmy Engberts (multiple stores)

A Blooming Spring Romance by Emily Engberts (multiple stores)

Murder by Multiples by Rachel Ford (Amazon)

Claimed by Her Bear by Ariel Marie (Amazon)

Infatuations by Barbara Winkes (Amazon)

Her Mortal Champion by Luna Lawson (Amazon)

Tastes of Honey by Frances M. Thompson (Amazon)

Freedom: What are you willing to sacrifice for love? by Cassidy Langue (Amazon)

All the Oceans by Polly Emorie (Amazon)

Bitter Winds by Marina Tempest (Amazon)

Keeping Alessa by Jenna Kent (Amazon)

Lesbian Boss by Kitty Jones (Amazon)

My Valentine's Deception by Giselle Nyte (Amazon)

Queen of Love by Cynthia Dane & Hildred Billings (Amazon)

The Honeymoon Mix-up by Frankie Fyre (Amazon)

M/M books

Honey Mead Murder by Dalia Donovan (multiple stores)

Solstice Surprise by Gabbi Grey (multiple stores)

His Coffee Shop Crush by Elle Waters (multiple stores)

Icarus and the Devil by Layla Reyne (multiple stores)

Surrender Love by Kayelle Allen (multiple stores)

Shift Work by TA Moore (multiple stores)

A Daddy for Christmas: Brighton by TL Travis (multiple stores)

Road to a Cowboy by Amy Aislin (multiple stores)

Tough Cute Omega by Eva Lyra (multiple stores)

What Would You Do? by PT Long (multiple stores)

Blood in the Water by Tami Veldura (multiple stores)

The Gentleman and the Spy by Neil S. Placky (multiple stores)

Dante by Stella Shaw (multiple stores)

My Omega's Return by Rosa Swann (multiple stores)

Timeslip by Clare London (multiple stores)

A Knight to Remember by Jackie Keswick (multiple stores)

Detour by Talia Carmichael (multiple stores)

Love by Chance by Blake Allwood (multiple stores)

Storm Warning by Rae Simmons (Amazon)

What He Needs by E.M. Denning (Amazon)

The Sinner's Penance by K.C. Carmine (Amazon)

His Hunter by MM Farmer (Amazon)

Not Strictly Ballroom by Jem Wendell (Amazon)

Unspoken Rules by Penny Fox (Amazon)

A Match Made in Evan by Anna Sparrows (Amazon)

Defending Freedom by T.S. Ankney (Amazon)

Waiting for Daddy by A.W. Scott (Amazon)

Alpha Island by Tia Fielding (Amazon)

Mistaken by Charity Parkerson (Amazon)

Seeking Daddy by Joe Satoria (Amazon)

One Touch by Linden Rowe (Amazon)

You Started It by Hinsel Meyer (Amazon)

Fauxmance in the Falls by J.E. Birk (Amazon)

An Alpha forr Osvaldo by Allie W. Scott (Amazon)

Sunshine and the Vamp by Bailey Grayson (Amazon)

Chasing Magic by Toby Wise (Amazon)

Doc by Abrianna Denae (Amazon)

Saving Ziggy by Alex J. Adams (Amazon)

Model Citizen by Lissa Kasey (Amazon)

More Reason to Stay by Ryder O'Malley (Amazon)

Blu, My Protector by RS McKenzie (Amazon)

Mocha Lattes & Candy Hearts by Peyton Holmes (Amazon)

His Mate by Vengeance by Mel Aitchess (Amazon)

Wrong Number, Right Bear by Lorelei M Heart and Colbie Dunbar (Amazon)

Mad World by Laura Ciociola (Amazon)

Wish We Were There by Lionel Hart (Amazon)

A Daddy for the Chubby Omega by Anna Winehart (Amazon)

Body Count by L Eveland (Amazon)

Weaker Than Instinct by Becca Seymour (Amazon)

Hammering Hearts by Alex Danvers (Amazon)

Unscripted by J.R. Gray (Amazon)

Pumpkin Patch Cutie by Lacey Daize (Amazon)

The Bear's Brave Omega by A.J. Cane (Amazon)

His Fatal Love by Leighton Greene (Amazon)

Step Daddy by Morticia Knight (Amazon)

Sweat Connection by Katherine McIntyre (Amazon)

Breakaway by E.M. Lindsey (Amazon)

The Last Grift by Elle Keaton (Amazon)

Forbidden by Phoenix Black (Amazon)

Pain in the Ice by Arden Stelle (Amazon)

Ancient History by A.J. Truman (Amazon)

Man Crush by Isobel Starling (Amazon)

Redraw Your Hand by CD Rachels (Amazon)

Prince and Assassin by Tavia Lark (Amazon)

A Swan for Christmas by M.M. Wilde (Amazon)

Maximus by Stella Rainbow (Amazon)

The Soldier's Familiar by TJ Nichols (Amazon)

Deviant Legacy by Sophie Dyer (Amazon)

Asher by Louisa Masters (Amazon)

Tooth Fairy Lies by Emma Jaye (Amazon)

Inside the Sandcastle by Megan Linden (Amazon)

Paint Our Song by Maia Kinley (Amazon)

Hunted by the Omega by S. Rodman (Amazon)

Something Unintended by Rory Maxwell (Amazon)

The Incubus's First Real Meal by Riley Rivers (Amazon)

Beyond Reason by Lee McCormick (Amazon)

Praise You by Ashley Rayne (Amazon)

Rust and Stardust by Atreus Rosewood (Amazon)

Wild Heart by Spencer Spears (Amazon)

Taming the Tackle by Rye Cox (Amazon)

Giles Ashby Needs a Nanny by K. Sterling (Amazon)

Life Lessons by Kaje Harper (Amazon)

The Tenor's Shadow by J.B. Warrick (Amazon)

Valor on the Move by Keira Andrews (Amazon)

Adora by A.D. Ellis (Amazon)

Magic Marco by Argentina Ryder (Amazon)

Quill Me Now by Jordan Castillo Price (Amazon)

Like Cracks in the Sidewalk by Sadie Jay (Amazon)

Blood on the Ice by Cassandra Featherstone - tagged as MM, but I think this doesn't involve the POV character (Amazon)

Friendly Skies by Marie Sinclair (Amazon)

Wrapped Up In You by Melody Claire (Amazon)

Faded Dreams by BL Maxwell (Amazon)

Bad Joey by Rhys Everly (Amazon)

Throwing Hearts by N. R. Walker (Amazon)

Room for Love by Quinn Ward (Amazon)

Twisted Villains by Bella Slash (Amazon)

Bring Me Home by Annabeth Albert (Amazon)

Moon by Wendy Rathbone (Amazon)

Summer of You by Joelle Lynne (Amazon)

Hollywood Slide by Cyd Sidney (Amazon)

Slapshot To The Heart by Lina George (Amazon)

The Answer by Piper Scott (Amazon)

Room 405 by Trisha Linde (Amazon)

The Shadows Beyond by TJ Rose (Amazon)

The B-Side by B. Harmony (Amazon)

The Angel's Kiss by Nicholas Bella (Amazon)

Two Thousand Dreams by Jocelynn Drake (Amazon)

Shroom for Improvement by Jemma Croft (Amazon)

Play By Heart by Ariella Zoelle (Amazon)

Mage of the Dragon Prince by Zarina Aston (Amazon)

Lost and Found by Lucy Lennox & Sloane Kennedy (Amazon)

What You Need by Avril Ashton (Amazon)

The Only Way to Live by M.A. Innes (Amazon)

Reborn by Richard Amos (Amazon)

Fated to the Dragon Prince by Silvana Falcon (Amazon)

Omega Shadow by Quin Michaels (Amazon)

The Beauty Within by H.L. Day (Amazon)

Chasing Seth by J.R. Loveless (Amazon)

Once Upon a Dance Club Wish by Jessica E. Subject (Amazon)

Forbidden Devotion by Lee Colgin (Amazon)

Hunting For a Home Base by Adriana Golden (Amazon)

Just A Little Love by Kerry Kilpatrick (Amazon)

Unhinged Titan by E.V. Olsen (Amazon)

Red Hot Fate by Dylan Reece (Amazon)

Lust by Sienna Moreau (Amazon)

Stealing the Silver Fox by Daniel May (Amazon)

Vespertine by Leta Blake & Indra Vaughn (Amazon)

Pitcher Perfect by Lee Blair (Amazon)

The Mobster's Mate by Kiki Clark (Amazon)

Polyamory books

Double Dare by Jeanne St. James - MMF (multiple stores)

Found by Jayne Rylon - MMF (multiple stores)

Valkyrie Condemned by Nixie Jade - why choose (multiple stores)

Upside Down by Liz Gavin - MFF (multiple stores)

Don't Fight It by Samantha Cole - MMF (multiple stores)

Game On by L.E. Eldridge - tagged as M/NBI/F, but I think it's only MF in this novella (multiple stores)

Parisian Ghosts by Janna Ruth - FMM (multiple stores)

Of Boys and Games by Mona Black - reverse harem (multiple stores)

Kiss Me If You Can by Cheryl Terra - polyamory (multiple stores)

Dirge by Lesli Richardson - MMF with MM (multiple stores)

The Dragon Heir's Omega by London Kemaker - MMM (multiple stores)

Stolen Omega by Layal Heart - MMMMFF with MMF and FFM (multiple stores)

Her Escape by Skylar Heart - MMMFM with MM (multiple stores)

Taking Out the Trash by Zoey Indiana - MMMMFFMM (multiple stores)

The Heiress Auction by Evie Croft - why choose (Amazon)

Jordan by Michelle Dare - MMM (Amazon)

Poor Rich Boys by Ally Vance & Yolanda Olson (Amazon)

The Scottish Play by Phoebe Alexander - FFM (Amazon)

A Touch of Royalty by Anita Primrose - poly (Amazon)

For Keeps by K.C. Everly - MMF (Amazon)

Dark Cravings by Darcy Hayes - FFM (Amazon)

Knight of the Hunted by Elizabeth Dunlap - reverse harem (Amazon)

Rise of the Witch by C. Rochelle - why choose with MM (Amazon)

Absentia Mori by M. Violet - heroine ends up with multiple love interests per blurb (Amazon)

A Sanguine Solstice by Alex Le Bruyere - FFM (Amazon)

Doc by Abrianna Denae - M/M with consensual non-monogamy (Amazon)

Chasing Their Bride by Loryn Fox - MMMF with MM (Amazon)

Be My Sinner by A.L. Maruga - MMFM with MM (Amazon)

To Catch a Rook by Cora Flynn - MMMF with MM (Amazon)

Hunter's Moon by Gwyneira Blythe - reverse harem with MM (Amazon)

Hardwick Hall by Jess Savage - MFF (Amazon)

On Death's Door by Miranda May - reverse harem with MM (Amazon)

Our Pretty Little Cupid by Casie Fairbanks - why choose (Amazon)

Winter and the Wolves by Kinkaid Knight - MMM (Amazon)

The Heroes and the Heiress by Kaylee Pike - MMF with MM (Amazon)

Why Not Both? by Kristin Lance - MMF with MM (Amazon)

Comfort of Lies by N. Slater - MMF with MM (Amazon)

Nest of Lies by Tea Ravne - why choose with MM (Amazon)

Rudimentary Distortion by Mila Crawford - MMF (Amazon)

And Omega Makes Four by Aria Grace - MMMM, reverse harem (Amazon)

All the Rage We've Ever Lived by Carlotta Page - likely eventual MMF (Amazon)

Ruined by Teal Rose - FFMMM (Amazon)

Absolved In Death by M. Bonnet - why choose with MM (Amazon)

Orange Lake by Aly Tatum - MMMF with MM (Amazon)

Fortune Fae Academy: Book 1 by J.R. Thorn - why choose with MM (Amazon)

Queenie & the Krakens by Aleera Anaya Ceres - reverse harem with MM (Amazon)

Drown the Sea by Elisha Kemp - reverse harem with MM (Amazon)

Feral Alphas by Sierra Knoxly - MMMMMFM (Amazon)

Tastes of Honey by Fances M. Thompson - FFX (Amazon)

Roommates: A Queer Why Choose Romance - FFFM with FF (Amazon)

The Jekyll and Her Hydes by Sierra Rowan - reverse harem (Amazon)

Pi by Thia Mackin - MMF with MM (Amazon)

Her Fairy Court by Sicara J. Weaver - MMF (Amazon)

Nowhere to hide by Jaye Pratt - likely reverse harem from book blurb (Amazon)

The Truth of Our Secrets by Heather Leighson - MMF (Amazon)

Captured: The Alien Clutch Prequel by D. Dove - MMM (Amazon)

The Bully's Dare by Adora Crooks - MMF (Amazon)

The Arcana Ignited by Anya Clara - likely eventual MMF (Amazon)

Only Orlando by Charlie Novak - MMM (Amazon)

Red is for Roxy by Meg Stratton - MMFFMM (Amazon)

Loving Ladybug, Part One by Jane Handler - MMF (Amazon)

Love on the Ice by Bre Rose - why choose with MM (Amazon)

Packed: Book One: Kol by Aiden Frost - MMMFMM (Amazon)

Son of Sin by M.M. Riott - polyamory (Amazon)

Gambler's Conceit by Adara Wolf & R. Phoenix - MMMM (Amazon)

Carnal Nights by Pinky Cockburn - MMF (Amazon)

Young, Wild, & Three by Amity Malcom - MMF (Amazon)

Final Straw by Cassie Lein - why choose (Amazon)

Trio by Kimber Delaney - MMF (Amazon)

Dirty Little Secrets by KG. Reuss - why choose with MM (Amazon)

Omega Domain by A. Purr - reverse harem with MM (Amazon)

Day of Judgement by Aurora Crane - MMM (Amazon)

Misfit Betrayal by Daria Binx - MMFM (Amazon)

The Midnight Manor by Morgan Blackwell - MMFF (Amazon)

Gemini Kings by Laura Navarre - Reverse harem with MM (Amazon)

Oath Keepers MC: Hybrid Collection by Sapphire Knight - MMF, MFM' and MF (Amazon)

Virtue by Ida Brady - contains FF, FM, and FMF scenes (Amazon)

Sapphic books

Femme Like Her by Fiona Zedde (multiple stores)

Caught With Zeus by Arizona Tape (multiple stores)

A Lady's Finder by Edie Cay (multiple stores)

Reign of Secret by L.L. Hunter (multiple stores)

Alchemiya by Katey Hawthorne (multiple stores)

Her Purrfect Familiar by Pepper McGraw (multiple stores)

Her Elysium by Emmy Engberts (multiple stores)

A Blooming Spring Love by Emily Engberts (multiple stores)

Cursed Slumber by Luna Lockhardt (multiple stores)

Murder by Multiples by Rachel Ford (Amazon)

A Sanguine Solstice by Alex Le Bruyere (Amazon)

Becoming a Bi-Con by Sarah Zane (Amazon)

Summer Love by Gemma Addison Dove (Amazon)

A Taste of Red by Stephanie Lee (Amazon)

Claimed by Her Bear by Ariel Marie (Amazon)

Infatuations by Barbara Winkes (Amazon)

Little Miss Santa Claws by Beka Westrup (Amazon)

Her Mortal Champion by Luna Lawson (Amazon)

Tastes of Honey by Frances M. Thompson (Amazon)

Freedom: What are you willing to sacrifice for love? by Cassidy Langue (Amazon)

All the Oceans by Polly Emorie (Amazon)

Bitter Winds by Marina Tempest (Amazon)

Off with Her Head by Dana LeeAnn (Amazon)

Maiden Over by Renee Dahlia (Amazon)

My Carmilla by Anita Zara (Amazon)

Tangled Encounters by Madison Nicole (Amazon)

Bean There, Found You by Cameron Tate (Amazon)

Mainely Books Club Collection: Books 1-4 by Chelsea M. Cameron (Amazon)

Cursed By Malignant Magic by Jenesis St. Clare (Amazon)

My Valentine's Deception by Giselle Nyte (Amazon)

Queen of Love by Cynthia Dane & Hildred Billings (Amazon)

The Honeymoon Mix-up by Frankie Fyre (Amazon)

Trans, nonbinary, and gender-diverse characters

Of Melodies and Maledictions by Maddox Grey - nonbinary love interest (multiple stores)

A Lady's Finder by Edie Cay - nonbinary/sapphic romance (multiple stores)

Game On by L.E. Eldridge - tagged as M/NBI/F. The sequel novella, Game Over, has a nonbinary beta, but I don't think that character is introduced in this novella (multiple stores)

Alchemiya by Katey Hawthorne - Woman crossdressing as a man and presenting as a man in society, but unsure if crossdressing is willing (multiple stores)

Mer Made by S.T Lynn - trans woman character (multiple stores)

Her Escape by Skylar Heart - trans man (multiple stores)

Unthaw My Heart by Harmony Noble - trans woman (Amazon)

Murder by Multiples by Rachel Ford - butch-like character passing as a man (Amazon)

Model Citizen by Lissa Kasey - m/m gender fluid romantic mystery (Amazon)

The Sneaky Lass by Kennedy Sutton - woman crossdressing as a man, but unsure how willing (Amazon)

The Heartbreak Show by Jesikah Sundin - gender non-conforming male character (Amazon)

Diamond Heat by Alex Washoe - trans woman character (Amazon)

Tastes of Honey by Frances M. Thompson - nonbinary character (Amazon)

Roommates: A Queer Why Choose Romance by April Gaisford - nonbinary character in book blurb (Amazon)

An Epic Construct by D.C. Emerson - nonbinary gender realization, genderfluidity representation (Amazon)

What You Need by Avril Ashton - trans man character (Amazon)

Other books tagged with LGBTQ protagonists

Power Play by Amelia Wilde (multiple stores)

Dragon's Instinct by Elva Birch (Amazon)

Bewitched Blooms: A Fundraiser Anthology for Zoë - collection of short stories, some with queer characters (Amazon)

Stalking the Mafia Man by Tierney Storer - has LGBTQ characters (Amazon)

Savannah's Temptation by Ellie Sandoval (Amazon)

Drunk for Revenge by Chrissy Nicole (Amazon)

A Cruel Game of Fate by Jessica Lane (Amazon)

Songbird by Sarah Williams (Amazon)

Amethysts & Alchemy by Rachel Rener (Amazon)

Locked by L.R. Douglas (Amazon)

Our Unexpected Beginning by Lenore Danvers (Amazon)

Aphotic Born by Elizabeth Myrva (Amazon)

Fake Flowers, Real Feelings by Domina Easton (Amazon)

[mightyflamethrower]

Arizona State Professor Defends Sex Trafficking

The objective isn’t homosexual depravity in particular, but degeneracy in general. Why else would a college professor defend sex trafficking?

Arizona State University Professor Crystal Jackson condemned the “anti-trafficking movement” and “deviant framing” of “sex workers” during an event on campus last week.

That which liberals want to normalize, they euphemize. Just as “MAP” is their euphemism for pedophile, “sex worker” is Liberalese for prostitute.

During the “Queer X Faculty Flashtalks” event, Jackson told the students and staff in attendance that “Sex workers have been and are at the heart of queer liberation.”

She isn’t the first to notice a connection between LGBTism and other sexual manifestations of moral decay.

“We wouldn’t have the modern-day LGBTQ plus movement in the U.S. … without sex-working trans people,” she said.

Of all the lame arguments for normalizing prostitution, doing it to promote transsexual psychosis may be the least compelling.

The professor also condemned the anti-trafficking movement.

The nutty professor screeches that “moral panic” about sex trafficking — i.e., sex slavery, which often involves children — constitutes thoughtcrime:

“It’s anti-immigrant, it’s racist, it’s transphobic forms of policing, particularly around women of color.”

ASU is a state school, meaning that an extra large percentage of its funding is provided on an involuntary basis. Here’s how our money is being spent:

She told attendees her previous research includes “the tenuous feminisms of self-proclaimed queer porn mafia performers and producers who then honor the grandfather of queer porn, trans male porn performer Buck Angel.”

Her bio on ASU’s website does not shy away from her defense of sex trafficking:

Crystal A. Jackson (they/she) is a Women, Gender, & Sexualities Studies (WGSS) professor in [the School of Social Transform]. They are a sociological feminist scholar whose research underscores feminist and queer understandings of sexual labors and gender politics in the United States. … Their current research explores how the racial justice concept of ‘abolitionism’ is deployed in mainstream, institutionalized U.S. anti-sex trafficking policies and advocacies to demand actions that are in direct opposition to racial justice abolitionist aims.

Presenting Professor Crystal Jackson, accredited member of the intelligentsia:

Is she or isn't he.....who the hell knows anymore.

[justinssportscorner]

Gavin Yamey and Mandy Giles at TIME:

President Donald Trump’s raft of anti-LGBTQ+ executive orders affects many aspects of the lives of LGBTQ+ people, including their sports participation, access to healthcare, and ability to serve in the military.  One executive order seeking to ban transgender athletes from participating in girls’ and women’s sports, is surprisingly picking up some Democratic support. Recently, Senator Ruben Gallego, a Democrat from Arizona said banning trans students from girls’ and women’s school sports might be “legitimate” and argued that trans girls put cisgender girls at risk during sporting events. However, this is a damaging myth that fuels anti-trans stigma, harassment, intimidation, and discrimination and reinforces misogynistic stereotypes that girls are weak and need protection.  

It's not the first time a Democrat has capitulated to Republican anti-trans messaging. In Oct. 2024, during his long-shot attempt to unseat Senator Ted Cruz in Texas, Democrat Colin Allred released a campaign ad in which he seemed to oppose the participation of trans girls in sports. And in March 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom, speaking on the first episode of his new podcast “This Is Gavin Newsom,” said it was “deeply unfair” for trans athletes to participate in women’s sports. We are not totally naïve—we get why a handful of Democrats are joining Republicans in wanting to ban trans kids from participating in sports teams consistent with their gender identities. These democratic legislators likely think their stance will appeal to “centrist” voters; recent public polling suggests that about two-thirds of U.S. adults support such bans. But we still firmly believe that such bans are misguided, harmful, and built on falsehoods, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and inequities. 

Democrats should not be willing to throw transgender kids under the bus just for electoral considerations. Trans kids face higher rates of multiple physical and mental health difficulties than their cis peers—largely due to how our society treats the transgender community. But when they’re allowed to play sports, these rates fall. What’s more, states with policies allowing trans girls to play sports have seen increased rates of sports participation by cis girls. In other words, letting trans girls play sports benefits all girls. Shouldn’t politicians be championing the benefits of sport for all? [...] The good news is that sports can be a real lifeline. The research is clear: when trans youth are allowed to participate in sports, these mental health risks fall. For example, trans students in states with fully inclusive athletics policies are less likely to have considered suicide than students in states without such policies. Megan Bartlett, founder of the Chicago-based non-profit The Center for Healing and Justice Through Sport, told The Guardian that sports “can be life-saving—especially for marginalized young people – because it can actually change your brain.” When kids are in sports teams, she said, the positive relationships help make them “feel safe and practice being stressed but being able to deal with that stress,” which builds lifelong resilience. Trans kids at inclusive schools are also less likely to experience harassment and victimization. For all adolescents, participating in a sports team can reduce anxiety, depression, and feelings of loneliness. Letting trans kids play sports also improves their physical health. Trans kids have worse physical health than their peers—including higher rates of obesity and of risk factors for cardiovascular disease, like abnormal cholesterol levels—which are thought to be due to the stress of marginalization. But research has shown that playing sports lowers their risk of obesity and improves their cardiovascular health. 

The benefits go even further. Trans kids who are allowed to play sports in accordance with their gender identity are more likely to feel like they belong at school and more accepted by their peers. Sports help all kids gain skills in team building, management skills, commitment, and leadership. And there’s even evidence that LGBTQ student athletes have higher grade point averages than those who do not play sports.

[...] The first myth, pushed by Senator Gallego, is that anti-trans sports bans are needed to protect cisgender girls. There is no evidence that trans-inclusive policies are harmful to cis girls; indeed, trans boys and girls have been openly participating in high school sports for many years now, with no documented evidence of any harm to cis kids. 

[...] The second myth, peddled by Governor Newsom, is that trans kids have an unfair advantage in sports. Trans kids vary enormously in their sporting ability, just like cis kids. Some play well and some play poorly, just like cis kids. Trans kids are all different heights, sizes, and strengths, just like cis kids. Whether any kid excels at sport is most often related to factors like how hard they train and what kind of access they have to good coaches. [...] Another false narrative claims that inclusive policies change the nature of girls’ sports. But as the ACLU notes, that trans girls’ “participation in the girls’ category does not change the nature of the category.” Inclusive policies do not undermine Title IX protections, and girls’ sports have thrived in states that adopted such policies. This is why many women’s rights advocacy groups support inclusion of trans people in sports.

This Time column is spot-on: Letting trans kids play on sports teams aligned with their gender identity is a benefit to their mental and physical health.

This Time Magazine piece also debunks the BS red herring arguments used to justify bans on trans people (esp. trans women and girls) from playing in sports, such as the need to “protect” cis girls and women.

[phoenix-joy]

Excerpt:

Edel said the archives were founded because she and members of a group called the Gay Academic Union, which worked to make academia more accepting of LGBTQ people in the ‘70s, began talking about how difficult it was to find reliable information about lesbian history. 

“A few of us said, ‘Hey, why don’t we just start collecting our history? We’re the ones who best know what we need, what we want. Why let other people do that for us, because they’ll control our history?’” recalled Edel, who now splits her time between New Jersey and Arizona with her partner. “We were all people who really knew that our history was disappearing too quickly.”

[...]

The Lesbian Herstory Archives hosts a variety of events, such as a weekly “Lez Craft!” night on Thursdays. For its 50th anniversary, the organization is hosting a “Dyke Prom” in May at a loft in Brooklyn, though Edel noted that the event is already sold out. 

When asked about goals for the next 50 years, she said the archives have outgrown the Brooklyn space and will need to move soon.

“Fifty years is too hard to say,” Edel said. “We leave that in the hands of the next generation. I certainly won’t be around, and I’m just hoping that it still will be mission-driven so that we reflect the amazing complexity of our communities.” /endquote

Photos from article:

[mariacallous]

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee would join the ranks of states where public school employees have to out transgender students to their parents under a bill advancing in the Republican-supermajority Legislature.

GOP House lawmakers gave near-final passage to the bill on Monday, putting Tennessee just a few hurdles away from joining states such as Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana and North Carolina with similar laws. Virginia has such guidance for school boards, as well. The bill goes back for another vote in the Senate, which had already passed a version of it, before it can go to Gov. Bill Lee’s desk for his signature.

The bill’s progression comes as Tennessee Republican lawmakers have established the state as one of the most eager to pass policies aimed at the LGBTQ+ community as Republicans pursue legislation nationwide.

During Monday’s limited but heated House floor hearing, Democrats took turns alleging that their Republican colleagues were constantly finding new ways to bully LGBTQ+ kids.

“These are the most vulnerable kids in our state who are just trying to make it out of middle school alive,” said Democratic Rep. Aftyn Behn. “And we are weaponizing their identities instead of actually passing bills that help Tennesseans.”

Audible gasps could be heard from the public galleries when the bill’s sponsor, Republican Rep. Mary Littleton, argued that the legislation was needed so parents could know if their student would need therapy.

“I feel like the parents, they have the right to know what’s happening in the school with their children,” Littleton said. “And I also think that possibly they could get that child some therapy that could help them solve their problems and make their way through school.”

Littleton also confirmed she did not speak to any transgender students before introducing the proposal but said some teachers had told her that they did not want the responsibility of having such information.

According to the legislation that passed Monday, school employees would be required to pass on information about a student to an administrator, who would have to tell the parent. That includes a student asking for action to affirm their gender identity, such as using a different name or pronoun.

However, the bill also would allow parents or the state’s attorney general to sue if they felt the school district was not following this new law.

The proposal is just one of several targeting the LGBTQ+ community over the years.

Earlier this year, Tennessee Republicans passed a measure that would allow LGBTQ+ foster children to be placed with families that hold anti-LGBTQ+ beliefs. Gov. Lee signed the bill into law last week. Lawmakers are still considering criminalizing adults who help minors receive gender-affirming care without parental consent.

Meanwhile, Tennessee Republicans have banned gender-affirming care for most minors, attempted to limit events where certain drag performers may appear, and allow, but not require, LGBTQ+ children to be placed with families that hold anti-LGBTQ+ beliefs.

In schools, they already have approved legal protections for teachers who do not use a transgender student’s preferred pronoun, restricted transgender athletes, limited transgender students’ use of bathrooms aligning with their gender identity and allowed parents to opt students out of classroom conversations about gender and sexuality.

[petalpetal]

tips for how you can use the library for other things than books.

don't own any streaming services or tv show/movie not on your streaming servie?? go see if you local library has the movie/tv show and even if they don't they can see if any branches within you county has it and then have it shipped to them for you to pick up

want to host a private event like a dnd group, magic the gathering gaming, local small club, small organization or just need a quiet place to do work/study/take a test (this only applies if your local libarary doesn't have study rooms) Book the meeting room.

Depending on where you are your local library might have other things to check out that isn't books or digital media. For example my library has museum passes and board games you can check out. A library my coworker used to work at in Arizona has seeds you could check out. So don't be afraid to ask what other option you have.

HAVE A KID??? but can't really afford to take them to fun/nice things because of this econmeny look at what events you library offers (sure you might have to drive to a different city/town BUT ITS FREE) (also the usually have really fun things during the summer for example I think this summer we had some people from NASA talk with the kids and give a presentation at our main branch)

Speaking of events they aren't only for kids. All departments has events including YA and Adults. Yes adults has events examples can be decorate your own wine glass (you get a free wine glass), or make your own key chain???

speaking of making your stuff most libraries usually have activities you can take home for example right now at my library we have a macrame hanging plant holder kit for adults to take home..

ALSO BACK TO KIDS because kiddos and their education is important. Libraries have this neat little thing called playviews and Launchpads. Playviews is basically portable tv screen that is loaded with education tv shows that is based on a theme (like pbs) and Luanchpads is tablet that is preloaded with educational games and they are usually themed by subject. They are a great way to enterain your kid and educate them. And honestly if you are going to public event where you have to bring your kid but you know your kids is gonna be board just check out one of these badboys.

this is sorta breaking the rules but I am adding it anyway if You are parent on here maybe or maybe not your might be a new parent. The library has a section in the kids section called Parents books that you can read to your children. They are basically picture books but they adress touchy topics or topics that require an explaintion. such as race, bullying, dealing with emotions, LGBTQ(becuae we live in a hetronormtive socity), Gender Idity (again hetronormtive socity) Loss of a loved one, moving to a new place, ectra. These are great tools if you and your child are going through something and you don't want keep your out of the dark but also don't know how explain to them on a level they would understand.

WE HAVE PRINTERS AND SCANNERS!!!! usealy you have up a certain number of prints you have until you have to pay.

WE ALSO HAVE COMPUTERS WITH THE INTERNET!!!

TLDR

LIBRARIES ARE HERE FOR PEOPLE OF ALL ECONICMIAL STATIS BUT ESPECIALLY FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE TIGHT ON MONEY. so eiher call or go check out your local library system and see what services they can offer you.

ALSO LIBRARIANS OF TUMBLR IF I MISSED ANYTHING FEEL FREE TO ADD

[rockislandadultreads]

New Mystery Recommendations

Board to Death by C.J. Connor

Back in his hometown of Sugar House running his family's board game shop and cafe, Ben Rosencrantz just can't seem to get his life to pass go, much less collect $200. Once he was a happily married English professor in Seattle. Now he's a divorced caregiver, looking after his ill father and a chihuahua named Beans while still figuring out the rules of retail management. At least the town has become more LGBTQ+ friendly than when Ben was a teenager - and that flower shop owner Ezra McCaslin enjoys flirting with him.

But despite his usual clientele of gamers, Ben is barely earning enough to keep the store running and stay on top of his father's medical bills. Then a local toy and game collector named Clive offers him a winning strategy - to purchase a turn-of-the-twentieth-century edition of The Landlord's Game, the realty and taxation game that inspired Monopoly, at a tenth of the rare edition's true value. Suspicious of Clive's shady, low-priced deal, Ben turns the offer down.

Then Clive turns up dead in the dumpster behind Ben's shop and a backpack full of $100 bills appears on his doorstep. Now Ben is the #1 suspect in Clive's death, and unless he and Ezra can prove his innocence and find the real killer, he'll go to jail for murder - and no amount of double dice rolls will set him free.

This is the first volume of the "Board Game Shop" series.

Death and the Sisters by Heather Redmond

London, 1814: Mary Godwin and her stepsister Jane Clairmont, both sixteen, possess quick minds bolstered by an unconventional upbringing, and have little regard for the rules that other young ladies follow. Mary, whose mother famously advocated for women’s rights, rejects the two paths that seem open to her - that of an assistant in her father’s bookshop, or an ordinary wife. Though quieter and more reserved than the boisterous Jane, Mary’s imagination is keen, and she longs for real-world adventures.

One evening, an opportunity arrives in the form of a dinner guest, Percy Bysshe Shelley. At twenty-one, Shelley is already a renowned poet and radical. Mary finds their visitor handsome and compelling, but it is later that evening, after the party has broken up, that events take a truly intriguing turn. When Mary comes downstairs in search of a book, she finds instead a man face down on the floor - with a knife in his back.

The dead man, it seems, was a former classmate of Shelley’s, and had lately become a personal and professional rival. What was he doing in the Godwins’ home? Mary, Jane, and Shelley are all drawn to learn the truth behind the tragedy, especially as each discovery seems to hint at a tangled web that includes many in Shelley’s closest circle. But as the attraction between Mary and the married poet intensifies, it sparks a rivalry between the sisters, even as it kindles the creative fire within.

This is the first volume of the "Mary Shelley Mystery" series.

Dig Two Graves by Mickey Spillane & Max Allan Collins

Winter 1964. After a hit-and-run accident nearly kills her mother, Mike Hammer’s partner (both in life and the PI business), Velda Sterling, learns her father is not who she thought he is. Seeking to uncover her true, troubling heritage, Velda and Mike travel to Phoenix, Arizona - and sunny Dreamland Park, where retired law enforcement officers protect and corral notorious criminals held under Witness Protection.

Mike and Velda find themselves swept up in escalating violence, fueled by the missing millions from an armored-car robbery, which leads them to a deadly midnight confrontation in a cemetery - where secrets are buried and open graves await.

Harlem After Midnight by Louise Hare

Harlem, 1936: Lena Aldridge grew up in a cramped corner of London, hearing stories of the bright lights of Broadway. She always imagined that when she finally went to New York City, she’d be there with her father. But now he’s dead, and she’s newly arrived and alone, chasing a dream that has quickly dried up. When Will Goodman - the handsome musician she met on the crossing from England - offers for her to stay with his friends in Harlem, she agrees. She has nowhere else to go, and this will give her a chance to get to know Will better and see if she can find any trace of the family she might have remaining.

Will’s friends welcome her with open arms, but just as Lena discovers the stories her father once told her were missing giant pieces of information, she also starts to realize the man she’s falling too fast and too hard for has secrets of his own. And they might just place a target on her back. Especially when she is drawn to the brightest stage in town.

This is the second volume in the "Canary Club Mystery" series.

[spellsword177]

LGBTQ Book Recommendations

In the year that has seen the heartwarming second season of Heartstopper comes the news two school districts in the US states of Florida and Oregon have banned the graphic novels and a public library in Mississippi removed the works from the shelves claiming they were somehow “pornographic.”  It never seems to fail; every time there is societal progress, you have a wave of those throwing up restrictions trying desperately to pull everything and everyone back. 

This heinous attack on LGBTQ literature, works on the African American experience, and tragic historical events are why we fight back everyday to keep these works available for all who seek their content especially during Banned Books Week.  It’s not about corrupting or grooming the youth; it’s about truth, love, life, compassion, and understanding one another.  What follows are seven LGBTQ books by seven different authors you may want to consider reading beyond Heartstopper, Fence, and Love, Simon.  Remember, just because your favorite book isn’t here doesn’t mean I didn’t like it or you shouldn’t give try.  Always enrich your perspective by trying a variety of works in the plethora now available.  Happy Banned Books Week!

1.  Boy Like Me by Simon James Green – I first ran across this author when I read his book Alex in Wonderland a few years ago being greatly amused by the antics of boy working a summer job.  It is very fitting to begin with this recent release set in a UK High School back in 1994 during Section 28 banning books on gay relationships.  The main character, Jamie, is lead to such a disguised novel where he finds a connection to his own personal truths and to a mysterious other person who feels the same way.  Will Jamie ever find this other person or will they be forever shunned by their small community?  It’s always a important to remember where we’ve been so that we can better guide ourselves to where we need to be.

2.  The Music of What Happens by Bill Konigsberg – Two boys operate a food truck Coq Au Vinny for the summer out in the heat of Mesa, Arizona.  Max, a baseball jock, is trying hard to forget a rough experience with a college boy while hanging out with his friends and working.  Geeky Jordan, is trying to raise the money with his late father’s old food truck and keep his mother from spiraling while hanging out with his gal pals.  Along the way they find friendship and love while working through their past traumas and current struggles.  Easily one of my favorites.

3. Check, Please!  Book 1:  #Hockey by Ngozi Ukazu – Join baking vlogger Erik “Bitty” Bittle from Georgia as he makes his way through the first two years playing hockey at Samwell University in New England.  Originally an online comic, this first volume in a two part set explores Bitty’s time interacting with the team and getting closer with their Captain, Zimmerman.  This was a charming story with entertaining characters, and, of course, the love of hockey.  Be sure to also read Check, Please!  Book 2:  Sticks & Scones.

4.  Lions Legacy by L.C. Rosen – Tennessee “Tenny” Russo had tried to leave his adventuring days with his father’s reality show behind and have a normal life with his mom in Greenwich Village.  Two years later, his boyfriend is cheating on him, his “Good Upstanding Queer” friends don’t care, and his dad comes back into his life with a potential lead on the Rings of the Sacred Band of Thebes.  Tenny could stay miserable in New York or join his father in Greece to recover a lost piece of queer history to share with the world.  A wonderful, thrilling story heavily influenced by Indiana Jones exploring struggle of keeping LGBT history from being swept under the rug or modified to fit a heteronormative viewpoint.

5.  Thunder by Dylan James – Teenage Grant Peters and Logan Summers have been long neighbors and rivals on the rodeo circuit in the upper plains of the United State or Canada.  With his parents thinking of selling the ranch due to a drop in profits, Grant is desperate to find a way to keep competing with his beloved horse Thunder.  He stumbles across evidence of a cougar attack and is drawn into an investigation along the property line with his nemesis, Logan.  Along the way, the boys develop a connection and uncover a secret hidden from both families.  Will they make it out alive?

6.  Howl by Shaun David Hutchinson – When Virgil Knox stumbled into the town center of Merritt, Florida battered, bloody, and raving about the monster that attacked him, nobody would believe him, not even his own grandparents.  Already struggling to make friends in his dad’s hometown after his parents’ divorce, Virgil knows what he saw and finds himself reliving that night.  Can Virgil find a way to move on with his life?  Will the monster find him again?  Is he on his way to becoming one himself?

7.  In Deeper Waters by F.T. Lukens – Prince Tal has a secret.  Fire mages are not to be trusted ever since his ancestor used the ability to fight wars against the other kingdoms and practitioners of other magic, the ability has been shunned.  The mysterious castaway Athlen also has a secret that enables him to somehow survive the deep oceans.  Together the boys will survive pirates, kidnapping plots, shapeshifters, and a grand political plot threatening the kingdom and Tal’s sister, the queen.  Can they stop a war before it’s too late?

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Lil Kalish at HuffPost:

Schools across the country have denied students entry to prom, graduation ceremonies and other school activities because of dress code policies that advocates say disproportionately impact LGBTQ+ students and girls.

In May, 16-year-old Florida junior Sophie Savidge told NBC News that she wasn’t allowed to go to prom because she wore a suit. In a statement at the time, the school pointed to its online guide to attire, which stipulates that “ladies” are required to wear dresses and “one piece attire only” to formal events. A transgender student in Alabama reportedly wasn’t allowed to go to her senior prom in April because she wore a dress. The school’s student handbook said that it was up to administrators to “deem appropriate clothing or appearance,” according to AL.com. And the American Civil Liberties Union of Mississippi filed a federal complaint with the Department of Education against Harrison County School District for barring a transgender girl from wearing a dress to her regional band concert this spring. The complaint detailed a two-year pattern of the district punishing girls — transgender and cisgender alike — for violating dress codes requiring students to dress in clothes that are “consistent with their biological sex.”

The school district added the provision of “biological sex” to its dress code after LGBTQ+ students complained that they couldn’t wear clothes that expressed their gender identity, said Liz Davis, a fellow at the ACLU’s Women’s Rights Project. School administrators have long used dress codes to enforce a rigid gender binary and uphold different standards based on assigned sex. This year, there has been a renewed effort in school districts across GOP-led states to enforce policies that are more explicitly restrictive to queer, trans and gender nonconforming students, as a record number of anti-LGBTQ bills have been introduced in statehouses across the country.

“Requiring students to dress according to their biological sex —even if it seems to be neutral as a rule, and it’s not calling out any particular student — has a disproportionate impact on gender nonconforming, nonbinary and transgender students because it is tying gender expression to their sex assigned at birth, essentially,” Davis said. Students who are targeted over dress code infractions can lose out on class time or face punishments like suspension, and may face emotional distress from being pulled from class and told to change, she said. Sex-based dress codes often force boys to wear pants and girls to wear skirts or dresses of a certain length. Advocates say these rules push rigid gender stereotypes and outdated, misogynistic ideas of how girls should dress in the presence of boys. And they leave no room for less traditional gender expression.

[...] Policies that purport to bring “clarity” to sex discrimination laws by codifying definitions of “male” and “female” in order to exclude trans people from those categories often use exceedingly specific language that also fails to account for intersex people. The language embedded in these policies, often called “Women’s Bill of Rights” bills, was first proposed by Independent Women’s Voice, a conservative organization that has argued it’s necessary to protect women-only spaces and activities from trans people’s inclusion.

So far this year, at least 10 states have introduced or passed similarly worded legislation to narrowly define “biological sex” based on a person’s reproductive capacity or chromosomes. Oklahoma’s governor just signed the state’s own version of a Women’s Bill of Rights into law on Monday. Last year Arizona Rep. Debbie Lesko (R) introduced a Women’s Bill of Rights resolution to Congress, though it’s made no progress since. Some state-level legislation now includes definitions of sex that explicitly bar trans people from updating their drivers licenses or state IDs, which makes it harder to vote, travel, and exist in public life. Advocates say that an emphasis on “biological sex” has negative ramifications for all people, including cisgender women, because it encourages people to police one another’s gender — including kids. People have harassed child athletes who they suspect are transgender, and one state official in Utah came under fire for falsely suggesting that a student was transgender because of how she looked.

School dress codes are yet another tool in the weapon to suppress LGBTQ+ expression in schools.

[bewitchingbaker]

Do they engage in helping outreach/charity groups?

Yep! Chris and Alice usually help out in Arizona's LGBTQ scene. Mainly through the One n Ten youth center. Sometimes providing catering for events and support sessions. Chris tends to lean a little more towards helping out with registering and being a room monitor for various meet ups. Alice is part of the local committee as a treasurur and mentor of sorts for LGBTQ youth (she's not the best with words but she provides a great listening ear)

[rabtbooktoursandpr]

Tour Kick Off: The Woke and the Dead by Mark Bacon #nowontour #mystery #giveaway #rabtbooktours @baconauthor

  Nostalgia City Mystery #5 Mystery Date Published: 03-13-2025 Publisher: Archer & Clark   A public war between a governor and a theme park lights the fuse on a story of hate groups, murder, corruption, racism, and political espionage. Ex-cop turned theme-park cab driver Lyle Deming finds the body of a park visitor during an LGBTQ event. The dead man catered gay weddings. Was it a hate crime? Arizona governor Rod Gudgel, running for reelection, calls it a random shooting. He mocks Nostalgia City theme park for its inclusiveness, uses homophobic and racist slurs, and later challenges the safety of its rides. Park CEO, “Max” Maxwell lambasts the governor’s prejudice and insensitivity, and the fight is on—in public and undercover.  Maxwell drafts Lyle to investigate the murder while Kate Sorensen, his 6’-2½” public affairs VP, goes on the offensive in the media. When an assault rifle attack kills and injures park employees demonstrating for gay rights at a Gudgel campaign office, Nostalgia City mourns, and Kate slams the governor’s unsympathetic response to the slaughter. While the FBI and sheriff’s deputies investigate the crime, the governor redoubles his efforts to regulate the park out of business. Looking for a shooting suspect, Lyle gets a little too close to an armed hate group—with a possible connection to the governor. His lady friend Kate flies to Montana where she digs into the governor’s unseemly past uncovering a trail of malfeasance dating back two decades and arousing Gudgel allies who want to stop her at all cost. With Lyle’s wry humor and Kate’s stick-to-itiveness the story moves quickly as mysteries and subplots multiply and loop together threatening the park, their relationship, and their lives.   About the Author My first three mysteries were published by Black Opal Books with my debut novel earning recommendation from the American Library Association. I started writing mysteries after a writing career in journalism and marketing. Prior to my novels, Ether Books of the UK published a collection of my flash fiction mysteries and many of my shorts have been published in online literary magazines. During my business career I wrote two books for John Wiley and Sons, one of which was a Library Journal Best Business Book of the Year. I have an MA in journalism and a golden retriever. I write the kind of mysteries I like to read.  I appreciate stories with twists, turns, and puzzles which appeal to the head. But I also like a mystery that appeals to the heart with a fast pace and challenges and threats that put the protagonists in peril.   Contact Links Website Facebook Twitter: @baconauthor Blog Goodreads   Purchase Links Amazon B&N  Kobo Apple Books Smashwords March 4 - My Bookmarked Reads - Spotlight March 5 - Guatelama Paula Loves to Read - Spotlight March 6 - On a Reading Bender - Review March 7 - The Sexy Nerd Revue - Spotlight March 10 - Book Junkiez - Excerpt March 11 - The Faerie Review - Spotlight March 12 - The Avid Reader - Interview March 13 - Tea Time and Books - Spotlight March 17 - Texas Book Nook - Review March 18 - Nana's Book Reviews - Spotlight March 19 - Momma and Her Stories - Excerpt March 20 - Crossroad Reviews - Spotlight March 24 - The Indie Express - Review March 25 - Sapphyria's Books - Spotlight March 26 - Wine Cellar Library - Spotlight March 27 - Book Corner News and Reviews - Spotlight March 28 - A Life Through Books - Interview April 1 - Frugal Freelancer - Excerpt April 2 - Books. Coffee. Happiness. - Spotlight April 3 - Novel News Network - Review April 4 - Matters That Count - Spotlight April 9 - My Reading Addiction - Interview April 10 - Liliyana Shadowlyn - Spotlight April 11 - RABT Reviews - Wrap Up   a Rafflecopter giveaway via https://ift.tt/eQZ2oXS

[qnewsau]

Trump pledges to "stop the transgender lunacy" on day one

New Post has been published on https://qnews.com.au/trump-pledges-to-stop-the-transgender-lunacy-on-day-one/

Trump pledges to "stop the transgender lunacy" on day one

On Sunday US President-elect Donald Trump pledged to “stop the transgender lunacy” on day one of his presidency.

Speaking at an event for young conservatives in Arizona he said that two genders will be the official policy of the United States Government.

Reinforcing his stance against trans people in a push against LGBTQ rights.

“I will sign executive orders to end child sexual mutilation,” he said,

“Get transgender out of the military and out of our elementary schools and middle schools and high schools,

Vowing to “keep men out of women’s sports,” in his speech.

He added that “it will be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders, male and female.”

Last week US Congress approved its annual defense budget.

The budget had a provision to block funding of some gender-affirming care for the transgender children of service members.

Transgender issues have been used as a political football between Democrats and Republicans for years.

Even with a landslide win, the US Presidential Election saw several states elect their first LGBTQIA+ representatives to Congress.

This includes the country’s first openly transgender state senator, Sarah McBride.

Education is now “mostly transgender”

In his speech, he painted a darker picture of what Americans had experienced under President Biden for the past four years.

Saying he will “turn the page forever on four long, horrible years of failure, incompetence, national decline, and we will inaugurate a new era of peace, prosperity and national greatness,”

“I will end the war in Ukraine. I will stop the chaos in the Middle East, and I will prevent, I promise, World War III.”

He has stated that America is now in its Golden Age.

Before he was reelected President-elect Trump outlined his goal for America’s education system

Stating “We want reading, writing and arithmetic,”…“Right now, you have mostly transgender. Everything’s transgender”

“Some of these school programs, I looked at it the other night ― they’re destroying our country,”

Banning transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports was a priority for his campaign.

During this time he pledged to cut federal funding for “any school or program pushing Critical Race Theory, gender ideology, or other inappropriate racial, sexual, or political content on our children”.

President-elect Donald Trump will be sworn in on Inauguration Day on 20th January 2025.

For the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Check out our latest magazines or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

[mudwerks]

SPORTS: 'Those bulls don’t know it’s a gay rodeo': Arizona event embraces LGBTQ+ community

even in old Arizona there are gay cowboys in gay rodeos

grow up, you sludge-filled old dickheads

[sleepysera]

May 13 Headlines

WORLD NEWS

Gaza: Hamas, Israel fighting escalates even amid truce efforts (AP)

"Hamas sent a heavy barrage of rockets deep into Israel on Thursday, and Israel pounded Gaza with more airstrikes. The relentless escalation of hostilities came even as Egyptian negotiators held in-person talks with the two sides, intensifying efforts at mediation."

Colombia: Shortages in Cali as demonstrations rumble on (BBC)

"Three weeks into nationwide anti-government protests, residents in Colombia's third-largest city, Cali, say they are struggling to get petrol and some food items. Protesters have blocked some of the main access roads into the city and deliveries have been severely disrupted. Cali has been the scene of some of the worst clashes between protesters and security forces. At least 42 have died in the protests."

Iran: Killing of gay man, sparks outrage (BBC)

"The alleged murder of a 20-year-old gay Iranian man is sparking outrage and condemnation around the world. Ali Fazeli Monfared, known to friends and on social media as Alireza, was reportedly kidnapped and beheaded in Ahvaz, south-west Iran, last week. His partner told BBC Persian he believed he may have been killed by male relatives."

US NEWS

Covid: Vaccinated people no longer need to wear masks outside, Fauci says (CNN)

"'We’ve got to make that transition,' Fauci said. 'If you are vaccinated, you don’t have to wear a mask outside. It would be a very unusual situation, if you were going into a completely crowded situation where people are essentially falling all over each other, then you wear a mask. But any other time, if you’re vaccinated and you’re outside, put aside your mask. You don’t have to wear it.'"

US House of Rep: Marjorie Taylor Greene confronts Ocasio-Cortez outside house chamber (CNN)

"Ocasio-Cortez left the House chamber late Wednesday afternoon ahead of Greene, who shouted "Hey Alexandria" twice to get her attention. Two Washington Post reporters witnessed the exchange and reported Ocasio-Cortez did not stop. Greene caught up with Ocasio-Cortez and began shouting at her and asking why she supports antifa, a far-left activist group, and Black Lives Matter, falsely labeling them 'terrorist' groups."

Arizona Recount: Why Republicans are still tallying votes (BBC)

"The Arizona Senate is paying $150,000 for the audit to be conducted by a private Florida-based company, Cyber Ninjas, that has never done anything like this before and isn't certified by the federal government to test voting systems. The process by which the Senate chose the company is opaque, and extra costs are being covered by right-wing fundraising. Already, Cyber Ninjas - which is paying individuals $15 an hour to conduct the audit - has made some basic mistakes, such as allowing blue pens to be used on the ballots. Blue ink is used to vote so this could potentially alter voters' intentions. The company also has been accused of leaving ballots and computers unsecured."

[samnyangie]

I wanted to share this before the pride month ends! They’re not written by me, this is the original post

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Robert Sean Leonard and LGBTQ+

On Stage

The Invention of Love by Tom Stoppard. Broadway, 2001.

RSL won a Tony and Outer Critics Circle Award for his portrayal of gay poet and scholar A.E. Housman, who struggles with his feelings towards his best friend and the love of his life, Moses Jackson.

The Violet Hour by Richard Greenberg. Broadway, 2004.

RSL played John Pace Seavering, an ostensibly straight character who nonetheless shares kisses with another man (played by future House guest star Scott Foley).

Fifth of July by Lanford Wilson. Broadway, 2003 (also Los Angeles).

RSL played a gay disabled Vietnam veteran, Ken Talley, living with his boyfriend in his childhood home and dealing with visiting relatives and friends over a summer weekend.

The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams. Baltimore (Center Stage), 1997.

RSL played Tom, the fictional alter-ego of Williams (who was gay) in this autobiographical play about his family. Read an interview with RSL about Tennessee Williams.

The Shadow Box by Michael Cristofer. Benefit reading, 1994.

RSL played Mark, the young lover and caretaker of Brian (Christopher Reeve), a gay man dying from an unnamed disease assumed to be cancer. The performance of this 1977 Pulitzer Prize winning play was held to benefit a high school drama teacher in Tuscon, Arizona, who was fired for attempting to stage it due to its homosexual themes.

Into the Woods by James Lavine and Stephen Sondheim. Broadway workshop, 1987.

RSL played Jack (of Jack & the Beanstalk fame) in this musical about fairy tales. No expressly gay themes, but composed by openly gay LGBT icon Stephen Sondheim.

Breaking the Code by Hugh Whitemore. Broadway, 1987-1988.

A biographical play based on the life of Alan Turing (played by Sir Derek Jacobi), so-called father of the computer - a brilliant young man who, during WWII, helped to break the German submarine Enigma code. The play deals with his personality, his love of mathematics and also his homosexuality, for which he spent some time in prison. RSL played Christopher Morcom, a schoolmate who was Turing's first love and whose death, at the age of 17, was to leave a permanent mark on Turing's character. Description from this site. Read the thoughts of Andrew Hodges, on whose book the play was based.

Coming of Age in Soho by Albert Innaurato. The Public Theater, circa 1985.

The play concerns a writer named Bartholomew "Beatrice" Dante, who has fled to Soho to escape his wife of fourteen years and to come to terms with his art and his homosexuality. RSL understudied the role of Puer, an "astonishingly precocious teenager" who informs Beatrice that he is his son by a German terrorist with whom Beatrice had a brief but intense fling.

On Film

A Glimpse of Hell, directed by Mikael Salomon.

A 2001 cable movie which originally aired on FX, based on a 1989 incident that occurred aboard the USS Iowa when an explosion killed 47 sailors. RSL plays Dan Meyer, a Naval lieutenant who questions the Navy's official findings, which blamed the event on a homosexual relationship between two of the sailors.

In the Gloaming, directed by Christopher Reeve.

A 1997 cable movie which originally aired on HBO. RSL plays Danny, a young gay man dying of AIDS who returns home to be in his mother's care (played by Glenn Close). The DVD release date is unknown, but VHS copies are still available.

Books

The Short History of a Prince by Jane Hamilton, 1999.

RSL narrates this novel about the family struggles and coming of age of Walter McCloud, a gay teenager in the Midwest. The audiobook is out of print but you can still buy the novel.

Other

Auditioned for a role in "To Wong Foo Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar"

“Douglas Carter Beane wrote the screenplay for “To Wong Foo,” and recalled all the actors’ auditions for the film. “John Cusack looked just like his sister Joan. Robert Sean Leonard was stunningly beautiful, Audrey Hepburn. James Spader—also beautiful. Willem Dafoe looked the way Mary Tyler Moore does now—the Joker’s sister, with that mouth. John Turturro—not pretty.”“

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+I want to add, to my knowledge he’s listed as one of the actors funding broadway support organisation including AIDS/HIV

You can see he’s listed in this link