Washington Blade, Volume 56, Issue 38, September 19, 2025

(Photo via Speaker Emerita of the House Melissa Hortman/Facebook - Charlie Kirk photos via Charlie Kirk Youtube - Tyler Robinson photo courtesy Utah Department of Public Safety)

DIVIDED WE FALL KIRK ASSASSINATION

latest act of political violence roiling America, PAGES 13 & 18

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Gala For Black Equity to honor ‘resilience, brilliance’ of community Oct. 4 D.C. event organized by Center for Black Equity

By LOU CHIBBARO JR. | lchibbaro@washblade.com

The D.C.-based LGBTQ advocacy organization Center for Black Equity is hosting on Oct. 4 what it calls the Inaugural BE Gala for Black Equity that will recognize and honor individuals and organizations that have advanced the cause of Black LGBTQ communities.

A statement released by the Center for Black Equity says the event will take place at the National Press Club in D.C. and will include the presentation of awards to nine individuals and one organization, Among the award recipients will be U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas).

“The evening will shine a spotlight on individuals and organizations whose impact spans advocacy, public health, spirituality, art, and community leadership,” the statement says.

“The Gala is not just a moment of recognition – it fuels the work we do year-round to advance equity for Black LGBTQ+ people worldwide,” Kenya Hutton, the Center for Black Equity’s President and CEO said in the statement. “Every ticket, every table, every act of support helps us expand our impact and strengthen our movement,” Hutton said. “stands for ‘Black Equity’ or simply the right to BE. Being is very personal to each person, and we celebrate that,” he said.

“Funds raised from the Gala will support not only the work of the Center for Black Equity but also ensure we can continue supporting Blake Prides as safe spaces across the globe,” he told the Blade. “With the reduction in support many Black Pride celebrations are experiencing worldwide, we decided to host a gala to not only raise awareness of this issue, but to raise funds to support the movement,” he said.

One of the awards – the Ernest Hopkins Public Health Leadership Award – will be presented posthumously to A. Cornelius Baker, the longtime D.C. LGBTQ and HIV/AIDS policy advocate who died in November 2024 at the age of 63 from cardiovascular ill-

From left, KENYA HUTTON, AIYI’NAH FORD and EARL FOWLKES, JR. at the 2023 Black Pride Opening Reception. (Blade photo by Michael Key)

ness.

Other honorees include Big Freedia, who the statement says is known as the ‘Queen of Bounce’ and her support for LGBTQ causes, and Eva Marcille, the actress, model, and star of ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ and Lifetime’s ‘Buried Alive and Survived.’

Further details of the gala and ticket availability can be accessed at centerforblackequity.org/gala

Whitman-Walker’s Walk & 5K to End HIV set for Sept. 20

39th annual event expected to draw thousands

By LOU CHIBBARO JR. | lchibbaro@washblade.com

Whitman-Walker Health, which describes itself as a leader in primary health, LGBTQ+ healthcare, education and research, with a special expertise in HIV care, is inviting the The event is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 20, in D.C.’s Anacostia Park “For nearly four decades, the Walk to End HIV has been Whitman-Walker’s signature community fundraiser and one of Washington, D.C.’s most unifying events,” the health organization says in a statement.

“Every year, thousands of residents, advocates, and allies lace up their shoes to walk, run, and help raise critical funds for Whitman-Walker’s mission of providing dependable, high-quality, comprehensive, and accessible health care to those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS,” the statement says.

It adds, “The Walk is more than just a fundraiser – it’s a movement. Every step helps to advance HIV prevention, support long-term survivors, and expand access to care for those most impacted, particularly young people and residents in Wards 7 and 8.” hosting the event in Anacostia Park in Southeast D.C. near where Whitman-Walker’s largest facility and headquarters are now located. In previous years the Walk was held in downtown D.C. The statement calls the decision to move the location of the event a “bold move to stand in solidarity with communities we know to be most impacted by this epidemic.”

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A scene from last year’s Walk & 5K to End HIV. (Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)

a lively community warm-up, music, entertainment, and a stage program highlighting local leaders, advocates, and stories of hope.” It says the event will also provide free shuttle service from the Anacostia Metro Station where some participants are expected to arrive.

It says registration for the walk and run will begin at 8 a.m., with the run scheduled and entertainment are scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m. at the time the run and walk are expected to end.

Proceeds from the walk and run, the statement says, “directly support Whitman-Walker’s comprehensive, community-based healthcare, ensuring that everyone – regardless vices.” costia Dr., S.E, adjacent to the park’s roller-skating pavilion, the statement says.

“Roads into the Park will close at 8:30 a.m., so plan your arrival accordingly,” the statement adds. “Roads will reopen at 9:30 a.m.”

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HRC’s National Dinner champions equality amid right-wing attacks Annual celebration tempered by setbacks, gun violence

By JOE REBERKENNY | jreberkenny@washblade.com

The Human Rights Campaign held its annual National Dinner on Saturday, a cornerstone event aimed at raisin more than two decades, the gala was hosted at the Washington Hilton, moving from its traditional home at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. The change in venue marked not only a physical shift but security and a more intimate guest list, according to attendees who have been coming to the gala for years.

Despite these changes, the event was sold out, with Ballroom. Ticket prices ranged from $450 for general admission to $1,250 for premium seats, with full tables of 12 reaching $15,000. The gala remains HRC’s single largest annual fundraiser, drawing some of the most prominent voices and allies in the LGBTQ community.

The evening’s atmosphere was a study in contrasts.

Smiles and fashionable ensembles could be seen at evtion as conversations throughout the night frequently

ress Maryland has made in protecting its citizens. who are unafraid, and in President Robinson, HRC has exactly that kind of leader,” Moore said.

He went on to critique policies that continue to harm LGBTQ Americans—without directly naming the Trump administration—and underscored Maryland’s steadfast protections for its LGBTQ population.

“Nobody should ever have to walk around and feel like they have to justify their humanity in Maryland—or anywhere in the United States,” he said. “We don’t get to pick the times we live in—those times pick us. The only question is, when the moment comes, do we run or do we lead? HRC was built in a moment like this—not when it was easy, but when it was hard. And that is why HRC is built to lead right now… Those who seek to destroy will fade away and be forgotten. But those who stand up for equality and justice will be everlasting.”

light of attempts to roll back protections like Obergefell v. Hodges and the Trump administration’s crusade to discussions was the recent shooting of Charlie Kirk, despite HRC’s public pressure on the Wall Street Journal to retract its erroneous reporting linking the suspect to the transgender community.

The evening’s program, which lasted more than four hours, was led by HRC President Kelley Robinson, who has guided the organization since late 2022. Robinson, a former executive director of Planned Parenthood, delivered a stirring address that balanced acknowledgment of progress with the stark reality of continuing challenges.

Delaware Congresswoman SARAH MCBRIDE gives a rousing keynote speech at the 2025 Human Rights Campaign’s National Dinner. (Blade Photo by Michael Key)

a nightmare,” Robinson said. “These are not ordinary times. There is nothing ordinary about ripping parents from their children, cutting billions from programs that keep people alive, or trying to erase our marriages. Love is still love.”

She continued, emphasizing the intrinsic role of LGBTQ advocacy in American history.

“This is our country. We have paid for it in marches and vigils, in court cases and funerals, in freedom songs and in blood. This is our inheritance,” she said. “This is our damn country too… Every seed we plant turns backlash into breakthrough. Every act of courage can turn despair into determination. Every dollar we raise brings us one step closer to equality. One day soon, we will be more familiar with joy than we are with grief. One day soon, -

transgender person elected to Congress and a former HRC staff member, delivered the evening’s keynote. Her speech focused on the urgent need to defend transgender rights in the face of escalating attacks on gender-af-

We’ve got to choose love anyway. We’ve got to choose joy anyway.”

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, who was also in attendance, delivered a rousing speech that acknowledged the ongoing marginalization of LGBTQ people, particularly transgender individuals, while celebrating the prog-

me are scared about where this could end for all of us,” she said.

Despite those fears, McBride emphasized dialogue and coalition-building as essential strategies for change.

“The lesson from both our progress and our current challenge is that when the public is with us, nothing is

my parents, my brother and his husband, and my HRC family,” McBride said. “Two LGBTQ kids were a blesstransgender woman and a member of the United States House of Representatives.”

McBride highlighted the consequences of bans on recent report from The aged 13-17, roughly 120,400 individuals across 27 states, are affected.

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impossible—but without it, nothing is sustainable. We rejected the short-term comfort of preaching to our own choir and instead found the courage to grow our congregation. We welcomed imperfect allies and created room for people to grow—with space and grace.”

She concluded by urging attendees to channel their energy into positive action, including supporting organizations like HRC. “The answer to that hate is not more hate. That love invites people in. That joy grows our ranks, and hope—infectious and inviting hope—is the only way forward.”

Artist Amy Sherald, celebrated for her evocative depictions of LGBTQ Americans, was honored with the “Ally for Equality” award. Sherald’s work, including her controversial painting “Trans Forming Liberty,” which reimagines the Statue of Liberty as a transgender woman, recently faced censorship at the Smithsonian, highlighting the ongoing challenges artists encounter when addressing LGBTQ visibility. The painting is instead being exhibited at the Baltimore Museum of Art. ty being censored in America, it’s that the ideas behind it—visibility, dignity, and freedom—are louder than any wall it can hang on or be taken down from,” Sherald said.

“That painting was a love letter to my trans friends and the trans community—but when it was censored, it felt like someone had tried to paint over me too. The thing about art and truth is, you can try to cover it up, but it never disappears.”

Sherald, who is straight, is known for her greyscale portraiture, which avoids traditional black-and-white representations of skin tone, instead capturing a spectrum of human experience. Her work often reinterprets classic American iconography—like “V-J Day in Times Square” inclusive vision of the nation.

“This room is the living portrait of liberty and progress,” Sherald said. “You are what freedom looks like when it transforms.”

Music also played a central role in the evening. Former alongside the 10-member Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C., delivering his original song “Home” before shifting into a spirited rendition of George Michael’s “Freedom.” Archuleta, who spoke candidly about stepping away from the Mormon Church despite his family’s deep ties, captivated attendees in a greyscale cutout suit without a shirt beneath, while many guests danced in the ballroom.

Non-binary singer Vincint closed the evening with two performances, including the popular “Take Me Home,” leaving the crowd energized and inspired. with prizes ranging from a three-day trip to Cocoa Beach and tickets to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, to a luxury Tahiti cruise for two. A brand-new 2025 Lexus RZ was among the coveted auction items. HRC highlightinforcing the organization’s broader mission to empower the community beyond advocacy and visibility.

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By SUSAN HORNIK When “Severance” star Tramell Tillman became the

ALAN CUMMING won his second Emmy for hosting ‘The Traitors.’ (Photo by Josh Going — @joshuagoingphoto)

“

”

Secretary of State MARCO RUBIO d ring his con rmation hearing on Jan. 15, 2025. (Blade photo by Michael Key)

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Media missteps after Kirk shooting endanger trans community Erroneous reports go viral and LGBTQ people pay the price

By JOE REBERKENNY | jreberkenny@washblade.com

Charlie Kirk, one of the country’s most prominent right-wing political commentators and founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed last week while attending an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. ation of conservative activists—championing Trumpism, attacking LGBTQ rights, railing against immigration, and amplifying culture war rhetoric that earned him both loyal followers and passionate detractors.

Since his death, media outlets from all sides of the political spectrum began to look for any details that could cover unknown details about the alleged shooter, who we now know to be Tyler Robinson, 22, multiple outlets began publishing information that had not been vetted or checked by law enforcement.

Early reports incorrectly linked the suspected shooter to the transgender community, with several outlets citing and suspected “antifascist” and “transgender ideology” inscribed onto bullets that had come from an early law enforcement bulletin. One outlet in particular — the Wall Street Journal — took a hardline approach to publishing this early, unvetted information. They went as far as to claim there was a direct link to the shooter and the transgender community in an article that has since been demanded to be taken down by the largest LGBTQ rights advocacy group, the Human Rights Campaign.

The National Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists (NLGJA), a professional organization advocating for LGBTQ journalists and issues in the media, responded to the Blade’s request for comment. President Ken Miguel said in an email: “Whenever there is a terrible act of violence, newsrooms are faced with sorting rumor from fact. Unthe way of being fair and accurate. In recent days, The Wall Street Journal and The New York Post reported ‘sources’ linking Charlie Kirk’s killing with ‘transgender and antifascist ideology.’ Many other outlets had access to similar sources but waited for Sharing unsubstantiated claims breaks one of journalism’s core ethical principles: do no harm. NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists is reaching out to the leadership of these papers to discuss the damage caused by this kind of coverage. Stories like these risk reinforcing harmful stereotypes and unfairly targeting a marginalized group that has already been the subject of politically motivated attacks. … Terms such as “transgender ideology” are rooted in political rhetoric, not neutral descriptions of identity, and should be handled with care, clear attribution, and context.” was raised in a staunchly MAGA household, with no indication he came from a “leftist” or progressive background, despite some outlets’ early claims. Law enforce— described by friends as a possible romantic partner — is transgender and has been cooperating fully with authorities since the shooting and knew nothing of Robinson’s alleged plan to kill Kirk.

The claim of connection to the transgender communote– and not removing the story like HRC had asked, the narrative had already taken root, reinforcing damagnition to escalate their ongoing campaign of anti-trans rhetoric.

“This is another example of an incident where they should be focusing on gun violence, but instead they lean into scapegoating a community—this time not just without facts, but with bad facts. That does real harm to people who are already vulnerable,” said Cathy Renna, longtime communications director for the National LGBTQ Task Force.

Her frustration speaks to a broader pattern. In moments of crisis, particularly those involving mass violence, trans and queer people often become the subject of rumor, scapegoating, and speculative reporting — regardless of evidence. The Kirk shooting proved no different, exposing both the fragility of media responsibility in the digital age and the persistence of anti-trans narratives that continue to shape American discourse.

For Brandon Wolf, press secretary for the Human Rights Campaign and a survivor of the Pulse nightclub massacre, the media’s role in amplifying false connections between the Kirk shooter and “trans ideology” is not just bad reporting — it is life threatening.

“Words have consequences, and escalating dehumanizing and dangerous rhetoric against transgender people leads to physical harm,” Wolf said. “We’ve seen it over and over again. People in power can’t pretend they don’t know what their words unleash.”

Kirk’s killing, he argued, should have been a moment for the country to reckon with its epidemic of gun vioture wars, with the right exploiting misinformation to vilify an already marginalized community.

“The right wing is breathlessly obsessed with transgender people—using them as scapegoats for everything from the price of eggs to immigration policy. It’s not about policy, it’s about power, and they’re willing to That obsession, he noted, has consequences far beyond social media posts and podcasters pushing divisive language. From all levels of the country trans people are being legislated out of public life — targeted with bans on healthcare, sports participation, and restroom use. Each false narrative layered onto that environment increases the danger.

For both Wolf and Renna, the issue is not only political opportunism but also a profound failure of journalistic responsibility.

“Journalists have a responsibility to get it right, not That puts people’s lives at risk,” Wolf said.

Renna agreed, stressing that the problem is systemic.

“Editors and producers make decisions every single day that impact us, and too often they’re choosing speed over accuracy, headlines over accountability,” Renna said. “That’s not just sloppy journalism—it’s irresponsible,

and it costs people their safety.”

Her critique echoes years of advocacy work around media representation. As a veteran of LGBTQ communications strategy, Renna has worked directly with newsrooms to encourage fair and accurate coverage.

She described the Kirk shooting coverage as a textbook example of what happens when fact-checking is abandoned for the sake of virality.

CHARLIE KIRK at the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. (Blade Photo by Michael Key)

“The media is a powerful force in shaping public opinion and even people’s realities. When misused, it has a truly detrimental effect. A single inaccurate headline can reinforce stereotypes and feed dangerous narratives for years,” she said.

This disheartening example underlines a sad yet all too familiar truth– marginalized communities are often “The most heinous part of scapegoating is that it usually targets those who are already the most vulnerable— trans folks, people of color, women. It’s punching down at people who already live under threat,” Renna said.

The impact of such scapegoating extends beyond headlines, both Wolf and Renna said. When false claims tie trans people to acts of violence, it fuels harassment online, increases the likelihood of physical violence, and deepens public misunderstanding.

“It’s unfair to the public not to fully inform them of all the parts of a story—and in this case, parts of the story ages trust in the media at a time when trust is already fragile,” Renna added.

Wolf warned that this devolution of trust, and on the importance of facts in journalism feeds into broader democratic instability in America. “The never-ending livestream of gun violence in this country is really disturbing. Our brains were never meant to process that much violence and death on display at all times, and the desensitization is dangerous for democracy,” he said.

While much of the public debate after Kirk’s death centered on politics and identity, advocates stressed that the real crisis remains America’s gun epidemic.

“Gun violence should never be normal in this country.

That’s not democracy. That’s not American freedom, and it’s certainly not safety,” Wolf said.

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First gay dating show debuts in Philippines Get swept away by ‘Sparks Camp’

By JOEL MEDINA

Whether it be iconic crashouts or jaw-dropping moments of drama, reality television has always had a tremendous impact on queer culture — but few shows have This series has awed since its premiere, with U.S. audiences discovering “Sparks Camp” when the first episode dropped for free on YouTube back in 2023. Focusing on a group of “Campers” who participate in romance-themed challenges while exchanging the titular “sparks of love,” the program made history as the Philippines’ first ever gay dating show. It was a landmark production for a country that still struggles with widespread prejudice against the LGBTQ community. Yet with each season comes increasing viewership and more people (both within the country and across the world) learning from the love on display and the many messages of queer self-acceptance featured in each episode. The Los Angeles Blade sat down with the cast and creatives behind this series as they wrap up their third season, with the “Sparks Camp” team breaking down what this groundbreak-

pines today … but what is it like to actually be on the show?

While reality series can skyrocket contestants to internet fame, none elevate their cast to international icon status like “Sparks Camp” does for its ensemble.

Season 3 stars Andrew, Kim, and Edward spoke about how thrilling it felt to have their attempts at romance get filmed on camera, with Kim saying, “Being there in the camp with nine other strangers, where I have to be as vulnerable as I can!? It was very challenging!” From half-naked mud wrestling tournaments to discussions about healing from trauma, the experience is intense enough on its own, yet it wasn’t until their installment began airing that the men realized just how influential these moments would be in the Philippines’ ongoing fight for queer rights. These were narratives that the heterosexual members of their audience (a demographic that has steadily increased since season one) weren’t used to, with Andrew detailing, “One of the reasons why a lot of people are unaware [about LGBTQ issues] is because we’ve been restricted from talking about these very normal topics.”

They all explained how mainstream Filipino culture often discourages discussions about sexual safety and LGBTQ romance, meaning not only are people disallowed from learning about these identities, but young queer folk aren’t able to see themselves represented onscreen.

“Moving forward,” said Edward. “I want queer boys and girls to see their stories Representing your community on such a large scale can be daunting, but these campers take pride in using every scene to show their audience what it means to be gay in the Philippines today. It’s a heavy responsibility for many, but luckily, this show is hosted by someone who truly knows what it means to fight for your found

BTS Sparks Camp (Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN)

“The journey [to] “Sparks Camp” hasn’t been easy,” said Creative Head Hyro Aguinaldo, as he spoke to the Los Angeles Blade alongside Director Theodore Boborol. The pair detailed the many difficulties they faced in getting greenlit by ABS-CBN — one of the Phillipines’ biggest TV networks — and their fight against an entertainment industry that had never given LGBTQ stories the platform they deserve.

“Most queer individuals here in the Philippines are tolerated, but not accepted,” explained Boborol. “Queer people are usually only relegated to [comic relief], never [portrayed] in any serious way … and that includes, of course, reality shows.”

He describes how impossible it once seemed that they’d actually get to create the program and, now that they’re wrapping up its third season, how heartwarming it’s been to see LGBTQ audiences fall in love with the project. It’s not always a great experience, as the series has been the victim of countless discriminatory attacks online. But it’s undeniable that “Sparks Camp” has become one of the most educational, authentic portrayals of what it truly means to be LGBTQ in the Philip-

When she isn’t advocating for transgender rights or winning international pageants, Habijan acts as the host of “Sparks Camp,” moderating the series and imbuing each episode with her unique brand of self-love. It’s a role she does not take lightly, emphasizing, “Whenever I spend time with [the campers], there’s an assurance that their stories are safe, that this isn’t just a mere reality show about finding love — it’s [a space] for them to find value in themselves.”

It’s an assurance that shows through the screen; whether it’s witty banter at challenges or reminding Campers to love themselves above all else, she brings a level of care to her role unusual for your typical reality host. She describes how this kind of openness is sadly missing in the Philippines, with the country’s deep roots in Catholicism meaning anti-LGBTQ discrimination is the norm in many areas and that there are few laws safeguarding queer rights. It’s because of this that she recognizes just what a huge impact “Sparks Camp” has on their local communities, saying, “I take pride in being ‘Mother Sparker’ because once a young trans person [watches the show], they can say: my future can be in front of the camera.” Habijan, who’d spent her entire career fighting to make easier pathways for other trans artists, emphasized how essential it is for people to see her and her campers being their truest selves onscreen. “The future is bright for [young people], because if they see more and more people who reflect [their] same experiences, then they’ll gain the courage [they need].”

“Sparks Camp” stands out not only for its historical impact, but because it does something that few reality shows are able to: it offers an amazing show, with an even better message. As each of the team expressed in their interviews with the Blade, this program and the few others like it are bringing LGBTQ stories to the Philippines like the country has never seen before. It’s helping to not only start vital conversations surrounding the respect and rights of queer communities, but fosters a kind of inclusive, love-filled influence that any viewer, no matter what country they’re watching from, can benefit from. In the last few moments of her interview, Mela Habijan perfectly encapsulated the core of what “Sparks Camp” is truly about.

“The value of their being queer … that’s what matters most. When you create and enrich the love that [the Campers] have within [them] — even if they don’t find the spark at the end of the series — they will end their journey at ‘Sparks Camp’ with so much pride in themself.”

It’s a pride that LGBTQ people worldwide can use now more than ever, and luckily for all, it’s a pride that anyone can watch three seasons of for free online right now.

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EMMA ROSHIORU Dr. JAMES BRIDGEFORTH is an independent, nationally syndicated

From rhetoric to renewal: How we heal America together Charlie Kirk was no stranger to controversy. He thrived in it.

He built his career on standing at the microphone in crowded lecture halls and telling skeptical young progressives to “prove me wrong.” At just 18, he saw a vacuum on the political map and largest conservative student movement in the nation. His reach

ric, to keep creating hope even when the world insists you don’t belong. own soul.

podcast drawing millions, his organization boasting thousands spoke.

only when conservatives and progressives, red states and blue, are hardening into violence. Ideas are becoming weapons. And

ness — it is America’s genius.

It is to recognize others’ right to theirs. And when we recognize

people up but by tearing communities down.

identities, cultures, and voices that call this country home. And

(Photo via Bigstock/Rawf8)

that heal and summon courage, they open the door to renewal. gether.

— a country that keeps choosing division over dignity, suspicion we will summon the courage to heal it. means to be targeted, to be legislated against, to have their very

renewal is now. ence as destiny, then we can build a nation strong enough to

1 8 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • SEPTEMBER 1 9 , 2 0 2 5 • V I E WP O I NT

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NICK STEWART, a Democratic candidate for Baltimore County Executive, is the founder of We The People - Baltimore County, the former vice chair of the Baltimore County Board of Education, a former member of the Baltimore County Workforce BILLY MORTON-ORTEGA is a marketing and project management professional, a driver of culture and DEI and a co-founder of Catonsville Pride.

Baltimore County must embrace diversity, LGBTQ community We can be a light for hope and acceptance

Baltimore County, Maryland, is at a crossroads, be it housing, jobs, schools or safety. We must ask: what kind of county are we and what do we want to leave our kids?

For our part, we believe there is only one answer. Baltimore County must rise now, in this moment of crisis and uncertainty, and leverage its greatest strength—its diversity.

Our tool to solve challenges is each other, but it will not happen by accident. If we are going to make our county more affordable and modern, we will have to make it more inclusive.

Nowhere is this clearer than with our LGBTQIA+ community. During Pride month, we saw the best of community and one another. We celebrated what is possible when people band together under common purpose. But we were also reminded of how much work the federal government attacks anyone who looks or sounds different. The Trump administration’s war on LGBTQIA+ is a danger and distraction, dividing us when we should unite.

Against this backdrop, it is up to us to not only acknowledge and see our LGBTQIA+ neighbors, but to embrace them and proactively nurture our diversity.

This is not only the right thing to do, it is how we can prosper amid chaos and cruelty. Working family issues are LGBTQIA+ issues: prosperity starts with housing, schools, and good jobs.

Rollbacks on transgender health care, restrictions on inclusive education and efforts to weaken federal anti-discrimination protections are not abstract policy debates. They are deliberate actions that strip dignity, safety and opportunity from our neighbors. And they do not stop at the federal level; these moves embolden local hostility and erode the sense of belonging LGBTQIA+ residents need to thrive.

Nearly 1 in 10 adults—and 23% of Gen Z—identify as LGBTQIA+, proof the community is growing and demanding representation.

Wrong. Local governments make daily decisions that shape lives, whether ensuring ing LGBTQIA+ seniors or investing in inclusive economic development. If we see

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the challenges facing LGBTQIA+ residents, we have an obligation to address them.

We believe Baltimore County has an opportunity to step into the breach with meaningful action. Like other jurisdictions, we should establish a Department of Human Rights and Equity to embed inclusion across county government and centralize DEI work so it gets the attention it deserves. It could expand access to health and mental health care, build partnerships with groups serving LGBTQIA+ youth ensure that Baltimore County Public Schools have dedicated staff to lead LGBTQIA+ initiatives and advocate for students.

We also believe Baltimore County should create an LGBTQIA+ Commission— something our neighbors in Howard County and Baltimore City have already done— so the community has a real seat at the table. And we must modernize our code and charter with gender-neutral language and designate all single-user restrooms in public buildings as gender-neutral, with the same requirement for new construction.

These are not symbolic; they are policies that make Baltimore County safer and welcoming.

At a time when national leaders are working to erase LGBTQIA+ people from public life, local govevery person has the right to live openly, safely and with dignity in their own community. And we must look to our younger generation— facing a more uncertain world than any of us have ever known—who nevertheless set the bar for inclusivity and support of their peers. They are more likely to be open and respectful of the spectrums they and their peers inhabit, reminding us of the future we should build together.

Point, witnessed the brilliance of Benjamin Banneker, and fueled the advocacy of The national climate may suggest dark nights ahead, but together we can push back. We can be a light for hope and acceptance. In doing so, we not only honor our moral obligations to one another, but we also attract more families, skilled workers, taxpayers and investment. And we leave a county gentler and more prosperous for those who follow.

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EMMA CIESLIK

is a D.C.-based museum worker and public historian.

‘Don’t Say Gay’ for sex education

Far-right politicians using abstinence-only playbook to target LGBTQ students The Administration for Children and Families recently sent letters to health departments in states and territories across the United States, requiring them to remove “all references to gender ideology” from the Personal Responsibility Education Program that provides federal funding for sex education. It’s a disturbing move that mirrors how from the 1980s through the early 2000s, the Bush administrations threatened to and did cut federal funding to states and schools that refused to teach abstinence-only sex education as part of the Purity Culture Movement.

Similar to contemporary “Don’t Say Gay” movements that empower parents seeking to remove references to LGBTQ individuals from classrooms and libraries, abstinence-only sex education has been proven to be deeply ineffective and harmful to children. These parallels are more impactful than ever, as the administration regulates what sex education can be taught in schools by withholding funding.

It’s a sex education version of “Don’t Say Gay” that shows how modern anti-LGBTQ legislation is a new form of purity culture, and one bent on eliminating not only representation but also education about LGBTQ bodies.

Understanding this history is vital to unpack and argue against sexual education restricts any discussion of trans, nonbinary, and queer people.

In the 1980s, Congress passed the Adolescent Family Life Act, or the “chastity law.” Title XX of the Public Health Service Act, this act funded a program, which has received more than $125 million to date, that encouraged young people to practice “chastity.” It wasn’t until 1993, following the lawsuit Bowen v. Kendrick by the ACLU that programs functioning out of the AFLA were not permitted to utilize religious references or use churches as host spaces. For the first time, AFLA programs also had to be medically accurate despite a 2004 report by the office of Rep. Henry A. Waxman found that two-thirds of abstinence-only education materials included false information.

By 1996, Title V of the Welfare Reform Act set up a new system of grants providing funding to states that offered abstinence-only sex education. Title V required that federal funding received would be matched by state funds — for every $5 of federal monies, $4 of state monies would be contributed to a program that “teaches that sexual activity outside of the context of marriage is likely to have harmful psychological and physical effects.” Title V was followed by Title XI, §1110 of the Social Security Act, that provided grants to community-centered (including faith) organizations.

This funding often required educators to not teach young people — 12-18-year-old children were targeted by the program — about contraception or other safe-sex practices. This program later moved to the Administration for Children and Families, known

as the Community-Based Abstinence Education program. In 2006 alone, $176 million dollars was spent in state grants, and the new program released a new program that urged educators to emphasize traditional family values, including explicit instructions that “material must not encourage the use of any type of contraception outside of marriage or refer to abstinence as a form of contraception.”

While these programs largely went defunct by 2009 when President Barack Obama removed almost all funding for abstinence-only sex education, the Community-Based Abstinence Education and Title V programs continue to allocate funding. A new bill--Senate Bill 3 sponsored by Senator Shay Shelnutt--on the docket for the Alabama Senate’s 2026 session seeks to require any sex education program or curriculum taught in a public K-12 school to “encourage abstinence from all sexual activity.” The bill would also require a parent or guardian’s permission before a child could be part of sex education, establishing an opt-in option rather than an opt-out that was discussed this past March in New Hanover County.

As students return to school in New Hanover County, they face a new sex education program — one that removes lessons on gender and sexuality.

This includes removing discussions of gender roles and the LGBTQ+ community. This past March, the New Hanover County Board of Education voted to change its sex education programs to comply with federal mandates related to gender identity, namely executive orders like the one signed on Trump’s first day in office that denied the existence of trans, intersex, and nonbinary individuals.

This was also deeply influenced by Trump’s Jan. 29, 2025 executive order titled “Ending Radical Indoctrination in K-12 Schooling,” stating that within 90 days of the order, the Secretary of Education, Secretary of Defense, and Secretary of Health and Human Services would provide an Ending Indoctrination Strategy “eliminating Federal funding or support for illegal and discriminatory treatment and indoctrination in K-12 schools, including based on gender ideology and discriminatory equity ideology.” The New Hanover County Board of Education’s vote also came after the U.S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights mandated that districts remove DEI, or programs or initiatives focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

While the option of establishing an opt-in program rather than an opt-out one were squashed by the Board of Education and were opposite staff recommendations, they were brought up during the conversation--setting a dangerous precedent, and as the Administration for Children and Families’s letters this past week reveal, historical (and present) funding restrictions surrounding sex education directly mirrors current efforts to remove mentions to LGBTQ+ identity and same-sex relationships.

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And it has a historical precedent — purity culture has roots in the Social Purity Movements of late 19th and early 20th centuries that sought to eliminate social impurities, like sex work and contraception use, along with LGBTQ+ identity and representation. Perhaps the best example are the 19th-century Comstock laws. Anthony Comstock, an infantryman during the Civil War, tipped police about sex trade merchants and got his anti-contraceptive bill passed on March 3, 1873. Comstock was instrumental in the passing of a federal law with his namesake in 1873 criminalizing the distribution of pornography, contraceptives and information about them, and any materials that could be used to produce an abortion.

The Comstock Act of 1873 also classified LGBTQ+ publications as “obscene” and prohibited their transport through the US Mail. It wasn’t until 1958 that classifying LGBTQ+ materials as “obscene” was overturned by the Supreme Court. In 1954, the Los Angeles Postmaster argued based on the Comstock Act that One: The Homosexual Magazine was obscene and thus could not be transported via the mail, but four years later, the Supreme Court ruled in One, Inc. v. Olesen that the Comstock Act had limited application over written materials.

Today, anti-abortion activists are debating the resurrection of the Comstock Act of 1873, which is still in effect but has largely become dormant in the last 150 years. The law is still technically enforceable and could be used to stop the distribution of contraceptives and abortion medications and supplies through the mail and local carriers.

Modern anti-trans legislation uses some of the same language that Comstock did over 150 years ago and abstinence-only educators did over 20 years ago that access to information about sexual intercourse, contraceptives and abortion will cause people to seek them out. It’s the same argument used within late 20th and early 21st purity culture to mandate the erasure of queer and trans people from libraries, classrooms, and public spaces, which conservative Christian leaders argue that they can stop children from “becoming” gay by “protecting” them from all discussions of LGBTQ+ identity and expression.

So the news of these letters from the Administration for Children and Families are not surprising but rather show how far-right Christian politicians are mobilizing the abstinence-only sex education playbook to target discussions of LGBTQ+ identity in schools. After the Mahmoud v. Taylor Supreme Court case that ruled in June 2025 that parents could opt their children out of lessons that including books with LGBTQ+ representation on the basis of religious rights, this aim to restrict federal funding on the basis of including LGBTQ+ representation and discussions of LGBTQ+ identity in sex education is the next logical step to “Don’t Say Gay” in classrooms.

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PETER ROSENSTEIN

is a longtime LGBTQ rights and Democratic Party activist. He writes regularly for the Blade.

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If the felon in the White House wants to know who shares culpability for Charlie Kirk’s murder, all he has to do is look in the mirror. It is his words, and actions, that have helped set the stage for the political violence in our nation today. From the moment he came down that escalator in Trump Tower in 2015, until today, he uses language to incite; he belittles everybody, and attacks his enemies with constant threats of retribution. Donald Trump is a crude, vile man. He has no understanding of, or respect for, history. He said, “I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody, and I wouldn’t lose any voters, OK?” From telling people they would still elect him if he killed someone, mocking a disabled reporter, and telling people he thought there were good people on both sides at a neo-Nazi, white supremacist demonstration in Charlottesville, Va., he has added to the charged rhetoric in the country. He then pardoned those who stormed the Capitol, and threatened to hang his vice president, on Jan. 6, 2021.

Let me be very clear: Charlie Kirk should not have been murdered. No one should be. I send my sincere condolences to his wife, and innocent young children, full stop.

But I can recognize this man who Trump lauds, and will now award the Presidential Medal of Freedom, has voiced vile opinions. In our country, freedom of speech is important. Charlie Kirk was entitled to his opinions, but we must acknowledge they were meant to create anger. He presented himself as a staunch defender of Israel, and the Jewish people. Yet “He used anti-Semitic tropes, from claims of Jewish ‘control’ over cultural life to blaming ‘Jewish donors’ for fueling social and political ills. The tension between pro-Israel branding and rhetoric echoing well-known anti-Semitic stereotypes has been noted by Jewish and conservative commentators alike.” According to the New York Times, he said, “Jewish communities have been pushing the exact kind of hatred against whites that they claim to want people to stop using against them.”

Then he was “critical of gay and transgender rights and the separation of church and state.” In one of his sadly most relevant quotes he said, “I think it’s worth to have a cost of, unfortunately, some gun deaths every single year, so that we can have the Second Amendment to protect our other God-given rights.” He said “I’m sorry, If I see a Black endorses, and is why he invited Kirk to speak in an honored spot, at his convention.

Trump is willing to rant about the tragic death of Charlie Kirk, and it was tragic; but he doesn’t speak about the three young children gunned down on the same day in Colorado. Trump does everything to ensure we don’t get guns off the streets. He has a cavalier acceptance of the fact that in a nation of approximately 350 million people, there are nearly 450 million guns. Trump refuses to condemn AK 47s and other weapons of war, being on our streets. Then he says he is declaring war on an American city, putting out a meme with himself as the soldier, and sending armed military into our cities.

Trump doesn’t know, or understand, history. He is trying to wipe it out from our museums, and is removing books on Black history and LGBTQ community, from the nation’s schools. All this makes him culpable for the raft of political violence in the United States today, from the attack on him, to the murder of Kirk, to the attack on the governor of Pennsylvania, and the legislators in Minnesota. It is both left-wing and right-wing violence, and it is all unacceptable.

Trump is not the only racist, homophobic, sexist, in the nation. There are many more like him. He has rallied them into a cult. He worked hard to ensure they could spout their evil in the town square. Something those before him worked hard to say was not acceptable. Trump, by example, showed it was OK to denigrate anyone you wanted to, out loud, and applauded and honored those like Charlie Kirk who took him up on it, especially if it could help him. And yes, Kirk helped him. He rallied young people to Trump.

In our country we must be free to debate ideas and thoughts. But it should be done civilly, and with respect. It should be done with the goal of coming together, not moving us further apart. So, Trump: If you want to meet one of the people responsible for Charlie Kirk’s murder, take a good long look in the mirror. :20 PM

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Meet Ricky Gooch, the energetic Fireplace bartender, manager Finding a second home among friends on P Street

By LARRY RAY

A bartender often determines whether the bar experience will be fun and enjoyable or forgettable. Some bartenders seem to forget why they are working — primarily, for money. The happier the patrons are, the better the tips, right? Patron Kerry describes our featured bartender Ricky Gooch as “full of positive energy and he seems to enjoy working at the bar” so we decided to learn more about him. Gooch was promoted to manager of the Fireplace earlier this summer.

A word about his bar, The Fireplace (2161 P St., N.W.): This west Dupont Circle building was created around 1837 as a corner grocery. It has housed many businesses including a straight gentlemen’s bar in the 1970s. In the 1980s it was the P Street Station bar and restaurant. This was in the era when a D.C. liquor licensee had to serve food and they did with a piano bar on the second floor. In the late 1980s, it became The Fireplace, “an international Black Gay bar.” During 2024, real estate agents Mark Bertini and Daniel Simmons bought the Fireplace and are transforming it.

WASHINGTON BLADE: How was it growing up in the D.C. metro area?

RICKY GOOCH: I was born in D.C. and raised in Laurel, Md., and currently live in

busy, I make an effort to greet everyone by

driving through D.C. at night. I drive past the monument and memorials almost ev-

It was a random night and I walked in by myself not knowing what to expect from a

I’m a gamer, a nerd, and a huge Batman

Light. The first thing she said to me was “you’re cute” and then asked me if I’ve ever been to PW’s before. I said no. Then she

I live with my boyfriend of six years with our two dogs, dozens of fish, one bird and six ducks. Yes. It’s a mini petting zoo. But I

BLADE: I assume you are out. How was that experience of coming out?

GOOCH: Yes I am “out” lol. I came out when I was 20 or 21 years old. It was defiIt was my inner voice that I think held me back from speaking up until I was ready.

I guess it was one of those “known unknown” situations that everyone else knew except me or that I was just the last one to be honest with everyone. Especially with But when I did, my friends were cool with it and didn’t care at all. My mom and dad had a few questions at first. But totally accepted it … it may have taken a year or two, but now it’s all good and they love my boyfriend. My twin brother on the other hand… it’s been some years and it’s still BLADE: What was your first experience at a gay bar?

GOOCH: My first experience at a gay bar is one that I will never forget. It was a bar in Laurel, Md., called PW’s Sportsbar. It was down the street from my job and just a few minutes away from my apartment back

Once I told her my name she immediately turned down the music and shouted “Hey everybody. This is Ricky. It’s his first

BLADE: How did you become interested RICKY GOOCH was recently promoted to manager of the Fireplace. (Photo courtesy Gooch) She told me that her name was Jackie. in bartending?

And from then on I felt at home. I made GOOCH: My interest in bartending startso many friends and had so many memories from that place. Thank you so much ed back in 2006 when I was 17 working at a barbeque restaurant in Laurel, Md., working my way up the company through the years, and from watching and learnI left the industry back in 2010 to dispatch truck drivers for 14 years. In 2022 my boyfriend started working back at The Fireplace part time as a bartender. I had asked him if they needed a barback. I had missed the bar scene. So I told him to Within a year after being a barback I became a bartender. I still barback on the While running around both floors it gave me the chance to get to know and interact The Fireplace has definitely grown on me, seeing the customers and staff rooting and supporting me for becoming a bartender. This place has become a second home for me. I appreciate everyone that walks through our doors. Even while 2 6 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • SEPTEMBER 1 9 , 2 0 2 5

BLADE happening with the Trump administration?

GOOCH: Words of wisdom: There is life outside the glass screen. Put the phones down and enjoy the life that’s in front of you.

Sometimes in life the hardest part is just getting out of bed. And if you can do just As for the [administration], my mom told me this once and I’ve been saying it a lot lately: There will always be peaks and valleys in your life. Just keep moving forward.

(Larry Ray is former vice president of the Stein Democratic Club and ANC in Dupont Circle and Columbia Heights. He is an attorney mediator with a dispute resolution blog: LarryRayEsq.com.)

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CALENDAR |

By TINASHE CHINGARANDE

Friday, September 19

Tuesday, September 23

“Center Aging Friday Tea Time” will be at 2 p.m. in person at the DC Center for the LGBT Community’s new location at 1827 Wiltberger St., N.W. To RSVP, visit the DC

Coming Out Discussion Group will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This is a peer-facilitated discussion group. It is a safe space to share experiences about coming out and discuss topics as it relates to doing so. By sharing struggles and victories the group allows those newly coming out and who have been out for a while to learn from others. All are welcome to join in the discussion. For more information, visit the Coming Out Discussion Group Facebook page.

Genderqueer DC will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom and in-person at the DC Center for the LGBT Community. This is a support group for people who identify outside of the gender binary whether you’re bigender, agender, gen-

The DC Center for the LGBT Community will host “Trans and Genderqueer Game Night” at 6 p.m. at its physical location. This will be a relaxing, laid-back evening of games and fun. All are welcome, and there’ll be card and board games on hand. Feel free to bring your own games to share. For more details visit the DC CenGoGayDC will host “LGBTQ+ Social in the City” at 7 p.m. at Hotel Zena. This event is ideal for making new friends, professional networking, idea-sharing, and community building. This event is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

information, visit www.genderqueerdc.org or check out Facebook.

Saturday, September 20

Wednesday, September 24

GoGay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Community Brunch” at 12 p.m. at Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant. This fun weekly event brings the DMV area LGBTQ+ community, including allies, together for delicious food and conver-

Job Club will be at 6 p.m. on Zoom. This is a weekly job support program to help job entrants and seekers,

on Eventbrite.

LGBTQ People of Color Support Group will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This peer support group is an outlet for LGBTQ People of Color to come together and talk about anything affecting them in a space the strives to be safe and judgement free. There are all sorts of activities like watching movies, poetry events, storytelling, and just hanging out with others. For more information, visit thedccenter.org/poc or facebook.com/centerpoc.

The DC Center for the LGBT Community will host “Community Collection 2.0 Opening Reception” at 7 p.m. at its physical location. Guests are encouraged to come celebrate creativity, identity, and expression as we showcase stunning works from talented LGBTQ+ artists.

Connect with community, experience powerful stories through art, and enjoy an inspiring evening. For more deThe DC Center for the LGBT Community will host “VPART Open House” at 12 p.m. at the Center’s physical location. This event was created to bring the LGBTQ community together, highlight the vital work of the Violence Prevention and Response Team (VPART) — a program of supportive services offered by our incredible sibling orga-

dence, motivation, resilience and productivity for effective job searches and networking — allowing participants to move away from being merely “applicants” toward being “candidates.” For more information, email centercareers@ thedccenter.org or visit www.thedccenter.org/careers.

Asexual and Aromantic Group will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom and in person at the DC Center for the LGBT Community. This is a space where people who are questioning this aspect of their identity or those who identify as asexual and/or aromantic can come together, share stories and experiences, and discuss various topics. Questions and

Thursday, September 25 The DC Center’s Fresh Produce Program will be held all day at the DC Center for the LGBT Community. People will be informed on Wednesday at 5:00 pm if they are picked to receive a produce box. No proof of residency or income is required. For more information, email supportVirtual Yoga with Sarah M. will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom.

This is a free weekly class focusing on yoga, breath work, and meditation. For more details, visit the DC Center for the LGBT Community’s website.

seph’s House. For more details, visit the Center’s website.

Monday, September 22 “Center Aging Monday Coffee Klatch” will be at 10 a.m. on Zoom. This is a social hour for older LGBTQ+ adults. Guests are encouraged to bring a beverage of “Queer Book Club” will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This month’s reading is “Bookshops & Bonedust” by Travis

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‘Queer Book Club’ will be at 7 p.m. on Monday featuring ‘Bookshops & Bonedust’ by Travis Baldree.

OUT & ABOUT Photo exhibition to celebrate trans joy in the DMV “Becoming Ourselves,” a photo exhibition depicting trans and nonbinary adults and children, will open on Wednesday, Oct. 1 at Sandy Springs Meeting House.

This exhibition features 26 photos of happy and joyful by lesbian photographer Gwen Andersen and has been displayed at six different spaces of worship and one gallery in Maryland and Virginia.

For more details, visit the exhibition’s website.

Upper Chesapeake Pride returns The Upper Chesapeake Bay Pride Foundation will This year’s festival is bigger and better than ever, expanded by an extra hour and featuring entertainment on two stages. The festival is a free, family-friendly event and will be hosted by returning emcees Vagenesis, the “National Bearded Empress 2022,” and Venus Fastrada, “Baltimore’s Broadway Glamour Monster.”

They will introduce a diverse lineup of performances from local and regional artists, including music headliners Laura Cheadle + The Girls, Mama’s Black Sheep, and For more details, visit UCB Pride’s website.

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THEATER

ADAM POSS (Toby Darling), JORDI BERTRÁN RAMÍREZ (Adam McDowell), DAVID GOW (Eric Glass) in ‘The Inheritance, Part One and Two.’ (Photo by Margot Schulman)

By PATRICK FOLLIARD

‘The Inheritance, Part One and Two’ Through Nov. 2 | Round House Theatre

4545 East-West Highway | Bethesda, MD 20814 | Tickets start at $50 | Roundhousetheatre.org 3 0 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • SEPTEMBER 1 9 , 2 0 2 5

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FILM

By JOHN PAUL KING If you’re reading the Blade right now, you’re probably someone who understands the importance of preserving queer history – especially in an alarming time when the danger of having it erased is uncomfortably real.

That’s why a new, Os-

who can then cash in on the policy at the time of the seller’s death – through their individual stories. There’s Scott, who facilitated such an arrangement for his dying partner and inspired a widespread movement within the gay community to follow suit; Sean, who sold his policy but survived to become a pioneering queer activist, publisher, and en-

discovered a few years ago that I had an unnerving personhistory to timely questions around care, equity, and the cost of dignity in this country. Right now, those questions could

en

lmmaker MATT NADEL

patients.

incredibly timely. generational storytelling campaign called “The Quilt Can

of the policy holders to survive, and with a diagnosis no longer equating to a death sentence, investors could no longer

sponsor.

for men who would otherwise spend their last months suffering in poverty to instead live what was left of their lives in

that can be learned from it. As a man who lived through the

in his family history to unearth an almost-forgotten chapter

viatical settlement industry – in which a terminally ill person may sell their life insurance policy to a third party investor,

elderly and terminally ill people as well as their investors.

struggle many faced and how the viatical process present-

days to illuminate how it has shaped their own evolution

CONTINUES AT WASHINGTONBLADE.COM

Upcoming Performances ARTS BY GEORGE!

MASON ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE

An Evening with Darren Criss

Papermoon Puppet Theatre

Saturday, Sept. 27 at 8:30 p.m.

Puno, Sewing Memories

A special benefit concert by this Tony, Emmy, and Golden Globe Award winner

Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble

Saturday, Oct. 4 at 2 and 7 p.m.

A spellbinding work that has traveled the globe

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago

Friday, Oct. 3 at 8 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 25 at 8 p.m.

A riveting program of the greatest chamber works

“A perfect storm of movement, music and choreography” (Los Angeles Times)

Darren Criss

TICKETS

703-993-2787

3 2 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • SEPTEMBER 1 9 , 2 0 2 5

CFA.GMU.EDU

LOCATED ON THE FAIRFAX CAMPUS OF GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY

A Mason Arts Venue

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FILM

Hidden queer stories invoked in ‘History of Sound’ and sorrows, hopes and dreams

By JOHN PAUL KING

To most of us today, folk music is just another genre. We might have some general knowledge that it originated as rustic traditional songs handed down across generations, but few of us likely think much about it beyond that.

If we did, we might recognize how much human experience, with all its joys and sorrows, was wrapped inside those traditional tunes, and how many private emotions are refracted in them through each link in the human chain that passes them down – and that is what “The History of Sound” (Oliver Hermanus’ new film, starring Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor) tries to convey. It’s an esoteric idea, to be sure, but the South African director (whose film “Beauty,” won the Queer Palm at Cannes in 2011) has a sophisticated cinematic vocabulary capable of getting it across, and it certainly helps that he uses a sexy and passionate queer love story as the vehicle to take us there.

Set in the years around World War I, it’s the story of Lionel (Mescal) and David (O’Connor), two music students who meet at college in 1917; Lionel comes from humble origins, growing up in the farmlands of Maine before his musical interests offered an escape, while David is a young man of status and means, yet it’s as close to love at first sight as you can get.

They strike a spark together that only grows brighter as their passion for music bonds them deeper. Of course, it’s 1917, and history is about to get in the way. War is declared, the college is closed, and David is called to active service in the field, while Lionel returns home to a farm that’s declining along with his family’s already meager fortunes.

After the war, David returns, affected by his time in the trenches but eager to get back to his musical studies – and to Lionel, whom he asks to accompany him on a trip through rural Maine to collect local folk songs by

recording them on wax cylinders for study and for posterity. Their journey together is idyllic, though David’s war experiences have had an impact; they connect deeply with the music – and the people – they encounter and record along the way, and enjoy their love for each other without reservation. When it ends, however, they go their separate ways.

From there, the story leaps ahead, following Lionel as his academic career takes him to Europe and a life he never dreamt of – all the while haunted by memories of David. Eventually, fate provides a thread that might bring them together once more – leading him to hidden secrets that cast a whole new light on their love for each other, and that add yet another layer of personal meaning to the folk songs that once brought them together.

It would be easy to play up the sex appeal of the lead couple Hermanus scored to enact his heartfelt opus about love, music, and an eternal thread of shared human experience – indeed, the press around this buzzy movie, which was a favorite at this year’s Cannes festival (though it failed to win the Queer Palm, for which it was nominated), has focused most of its attention on the chemistry between its two “It-Boy” stars, neither of whom publicly identifies as queer but who have both established themselves firmly as dedicated to the authentic portrayal of queer human experience.

That chemistry, unsurprisingly, is epic. Mescal, whose irresistibly masculine appeal is deepened by the sensitivity and vulnerability he brings to his characters, both here and in previous films (such as the haunting “All of Us Strangers”), melts our hearts and wins our respect with a performance that feels almost sacred in its stubborn refusal to abandon queer hope; O’Connor, who so searingly welded us to his struggle to overcome homophobic self-loathing in “God’s Own Country” long before his stint

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JOSH O’CONNOR and PAUL MESCAL in ‘The History of Sound.’ (Image courtesy of MUBI)

as Prince Charles on “The Crown” or his bisexual-teasing turn in “Challengers,” provides a tantalizingly opaque portrait of “prudently” compliant queer identity, coupled with an implied-but-essential element of “don’t ask, don’t tell” which lends the whole thing a tragic air of compromised resignation. Yet the combination somehow evokes our own deepest fantasies, our true-romance daydreams of finding a queer “eye of the hurricane” in which it is possible to live as our authentic selves, regardless of the strictures imposed by the larger society.

Inevitably, there are comparisons to be made with “Brokeback Mountain,” the quintessential tragic gay love story that shares its contrast of pastoral bliss and societal obligation and mirrors the star-crossed romance which drives it; and while we’ll be the first to say that we wish we no longer had to see bittersweet onscreen queer love thwarted by tragedy, timing, and social convention, we can’t deny that it’s important to be reminded of the reality that has made that trope so eternally relevant – especially in a time when any advances we may have made toward living an open life have been critically endangered by a political climate that seems bent on rolling us all back into the closet, In any case, it hardly matters. “The History of Sound” might move a bit too slowly for some tastes, or indulge in its fascination with music –- as a vehicle for shared human truth – a little too deeply to suit those who are just there for the love story, but it ultimately succeeds in making us identify

with both Lionel and David, feeling the boldness to embrace our lives fully, regardless of the cost, while simultaneously maintaining the prudent pretences that protect us from the oppression and contempt that might otherwise be heaped upon us. It’s the tightrope of living in a homophobic society, rendered vividly in Hermanus’ leisurely-paced, deeply compassionate, and utterly heart-stirring period narrative – which, to bestow proper credit, emerges from the screenplay

by Ben Shattuck, adapted for the screen from two of his own short stories – and left in our laps to contemplate as the final credits roll.

What elevates it beyond that bittersweet validation of queer love, in all its devastating cultural inconvenience, is its profoundly felt embrace of music as an ongoing record of human existence; “The History of Sound” is also a history of hardships and sorrows, of hopes and dreams and inspiration, and by invoking that continuous thread of lived experience, binds it to the long-obscured reality of queer love that has always existed outside the margins, reminding us that we’ve always been a part of an ongoing story that is still being written today.

In all its candid melancholy, it reminds us that we are and have always been a part of the whole, despite the objections of small minds and societal acceptance, and that’s more than enough to justify all the industry buzz that precedes it.

And if you need more encouragement to see it, that spitting scene is pretty hot, too.

“DEEPLY INTIMATE” — DC THEATER ARTS

WRITTEN BY MANUEL PUIG

THRU SEPT 28

DIRECTED BY JOSÉ LUIS ARELLANO

GALATHEATRE.ORG

202-234-7174 H I S PA N I C T H E AT R E SINCE 1976

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BOOKS

Sam Altman bio traces AI guru from gay student to Trump acolyte How a young idealist’s crusade mutated into a billionaire’s collaboration

By CHARLES FRANCIS

Now that the acid bath of authoritarian government is undermining the foundations of our democracy, historians will ask, “Who were the big enablers, the billionaires who collaborated? And why, when there was still hope?” ligence (A.G.I.) development company, tells the story with the weight of a great novel.

“The Optimist: Sam Altman, OpenAI, and the Race to Invent the Future” by Wall Street Journal reporter Keach Hagey is framed as the story of a corporate struggle. However, it can be appreciated as a “bildungsroman,” a novel of education about a gay young man’s personal quest to ultimately create superintelligence with the development of A.G.I. Sounds like Marvel but thanks to Keach Hagey and the research of her colleagues over the years at the Wall Street Journal this story soars in the real world.

Sam Altman gathers his personal force through so many moments and epic events

brought to life in this biography. My favorite is his high school Gay Straight Alliance “he almost willed into existence,” according to one of his gay friends at the time. In a “Child is father to the Man” moment, Altman is incensed the GSA student assembly he organized has generated controversy because a Christian group and their parents have demanded their kids be excused. Altman presses ahead and uses the opportunity as a “bombshell for maximum rhetorical impact” to come out in front of the entire student body. Until then, only a few friends knew his story. A natural leader with preternatural in Silicon Valley. application of OpenAI, ChatGPT to the market. This generates billions in shareholder by independent board members, then hired by Microsoft and called back by OpenAI. Hagey makes this both comprehensible and exciting. Amid the turmoil, the story darkens with head-snapping reversals of direction on the two most important principles of liberal worldview of government’s role to ensure the future of his techno-utopian ideals how Altman betrayed those twin pillars of a young man’s quest that withered in the face of ambition. “Founders are kings, emperors, gods” to the billionaire venture capitalists who fund them, Hagey explains Altman’s ability to raise billions and be courted by politicians while living a maxed-out gay life.

Altman and Oliver Mulhering (whom he met in Trump-backer Peter Thiel’s hot tub at 3 a.m., according to Hagey) married in 2024 “beneath a jasmine-draped chuppah (canopy) erected among the palm trees of his Hawaiian estate.” A scene of “almost unimaginable splendor,” she describes the wedding in gauzey awe but then draws a wrenching direct line from this moment of “splendor” to the fate of British mathematician Alan Turing, the WW II computing genius who broke the Nazi’s Enigma code. Turing, Hagey writes, “whose ideas had inspired the technology behind Altman’s ChatGPT,” committed suicide in 1954 after a punishment of chemical castration by the British government for being homosexual. The British government formally acknowledged and apologized for its persecution of Turing after software engineer John Graham-Cumming led a 10year long movement in the UK for an apology. Living astride such epic historical context , Altman responded in an Advocate interview in an uncharacteristically underwhelming way “the laws have changed more quickly than I ever thought they would, so I’m grateful for that … I don’t have time for politics.”

He soon would.

Altman had already compared Donald Trump to Adolph Hitler posing “an unprecedented threat to America.”

“To anyone familiar with the history of Germany in the 1930s, it’s chilling to watch Trump in action,” he said. After Trump’s victory in 2024, and dining with Trump at Mara-Lago and more conversations with Trump, came his $1 million personal contribution to the Trump 2025 inaugural, and a confession I have “really changed my perspective on him.” Trump “will be incredible for the country in many ways,” Altman said. Perhaps because of a push to release the book, “The Optimist” fails to explore this and coming contortions: Altman alongside Trump announcing a $500 billion “Stargate Initiative” for massive A.I. data centers alongside A.I. deregulation, no more handwringing about safety. “I hope he’s right about A.I.,” Trump said.

Whatever happened to the kid who stood up for his Gay Straight Alliance? When asked in that Advocate interview after his wedding what LGBTQ people he may have admired when growing up, he responded, “That’s a really great question, and you know, I never really thought about that.” Thanks to this excellent biography, we know young Sam is in there somewhere. Yet “The Optimist” is also a novel without an ending.

How could it be otherwise at this stage of Sam Altman’s quest mutated into a billionaire’s collaboration.

(Charles Francis is president of the Mattachine Society of Washington, D.C., and author of “Archive Activism: Memoir of a ‘Uniquely Nasty’ Journey,” UNT Press, 2023.)

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BASED ON THE NOVEL THE YEAR THE YANKEES LOST THE PENNANT BY DOUGLASS WALLOP Ana Villafañe for Damn Yankees at Nationals Park. Photo by Tony Powell.

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Human Rights Campaign National Dinner Gov. Moore, Rep. McBride speak at annual gala (Washington Blade photos by Michael Key) The Human Rights Campaign held the 2025 HRC National Dinner at the Washington Hilton on Saturday, Sept. 13. Speakers included HRC President Kelley Robinson, Gov. Wes Moore (D-Md.) and Rep. Sarah McBride (D-Del.). David Archuleta performed alongside members of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington. Artist Amy Sherald was presented with the Ally for Equality Award.

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AUTOS

Double the drama: BMW X4 versus BMW X4 M Two personalities — both playful, passionate

By JOE PHILLIPS

The BMW X4 and its spicy sibling, the X4 M, are like that annoying A-list couple: One’s got the sleek, stylish look that turns heads, and the other is the high-energy danc-

BMW X4

$57,000 | MPG: 21 city/27 highway 0 to 60 mph: 6.2 seconds | Cargo space: 18.5 cu. ft.

PROS: Effortless acceleration. Easy handling. Elegant looks.

CONS: Eensy-weensy side-door storage. Vexing electronics.

over coupe,” while the refreshed front fascia exudes enough attitude to feel modern without overdoing it. justable seats that are heavenly. And optional upholstery colors go beyond basic black.

Think mocha brown, oyster beige and even a bold red if you’re feeling extra smart.

A curved display sweeps across the dash like an opera diva, with a nice mix of touchscreen and dial controls. But while some drivers may swoon over the nav system’s adaptive map mode—which enlarges the view on the screen automatically every time you approach a turn, intersection or merge lane—it took some doing for me reset the monitor to the old-school static view I prefer.

Performance-wise, the base model—the xDrive30i—starts with a turbocharged four-cylinder (good for 248 horsepower). But the real sweet spot is the six-cylinder xDrive40i, which pumps out a robust 382 horses. This is not a sports car, but it sure is playful—like a friend who insists on karaoke after midnight and somehow nails every note.

Handling is sharp for a crossover, thanks to BMW’s all-wheel drive and well-tuned suspension. But while the sharply angled roof sure is sexy, it also means limited rear headroom and cargo space. Luckily, the stowage expands to almost three times the size by folding down the backseats.

Of course, buyers aren’t choosing the X4 because it’s an overt hauler. They want intriguing looks and, well, an ego boost. I found this Bimmer to be daring enough for date night, practical enough for groceries and fun enough to take on twisty back roads.

BMW X4

BMW X4 M

$81,000 | MPG: 15 city/20 highway

0 to 60 mph: 3.9 seconds | Cargo space: 18.5 cu. ft.

PROS: Exhilarating power. Exotic feel. Elegant lines.

CONS: Anemic fuel economy. Excessive sticker price.

If the BMW X4 is like your chic brunch buddy, then the high-performance X4 M is the club friend who orders tequila shots for everyone and convinces the DJ to play BeyonUnder the hood, the X4 M packs BMW’s beloved 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six, tuned for 473 horsepower. In the Competition trim level, you get a staggering 500 horsepowexotic race cars. But for me, driving either one of these bad boys was like voguing down a runway in broad daylight.)

The styling cues crank things up, too: aggressive air intakes, quad exhaust tips, performance wheels and a slightly angry stance. The X4 M doesn’t just look sporty, it seems just another pretty face.

On the road, this BMW is absolutely thrilling. Steering is precise, grip is endless and the engine’s growl feels more Broadway belter than coffeehouse crooner. Sure, the ride shopping this car wants intensity.

Alas, practicality does take a hit. As with the regular BMW X4, rear cargo area is tight.

And eco-conscious drivers will be put off by the low fuel economy here. But let’s be real: no one buys an X4 M for Costco runs. They buy it because of the over-the-top performance and panache—and just enough utility to make sense.

IOW, the X4 M is for extroverts, people who thrive on making an entrance. If the stanBMW X4 M

4 6 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • SEPTEMBER 1 9 , 2 0 2 5

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NEW YEARS EVE

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REAL ESTATE

By JUSTIN NOBLE In times of economic uncertainty, many homebuyers freeze as they want to wait to see what happens in the

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JUSTIN NOBLE

is a Real Estate professional with Sotheby’s International Realty Servicing Washington D.C., Maryland, and the beaches of Delaware.

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With interest rates falling, more inventory will come to the market.

(Photo via Bigstock/avmedved)

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NEW YEARS EVE

AN E

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REAL ESTATE

Is homeownership for everyone?

At some point you have to stop analyzing and execute the decision to buy

By JOSEPH HUDSON

Is homeownership for everyone? The simple answer is, yes and no. At the risk of sounding like Karen Collins from “VEEP” - Selina Meyers’s favorite political consultant, who never could seem to provide any direct answers, “There could be reasons for and against it!” (Insert eye roll from everyone in the room, here.)

I say this not to just cause further confusion. But to introduce a topic that is called, “the no-lose deciDon’t debate the issue of buying a home to death. Make sion.” You may have heard an informed decision and then execute it. of the parable of the don(Photo via Bigstock/Tirachard Kumtanom) key who is before two bales of hay and is having a hard time deciding which one to go for. In the meantime, the donkey starves to death.

This might be an overly simplistic example, but as many parables or examples are, the point of the story is really about indecision.

There is a point at which examining options, considering pros and cons, running the numbers one more time, getting an inspection, calling in a second inspector, spending three hours on the phone with one friend, calling your mother later that week to spend another hour, talking on the phone with a financial adviser for another set of back and forths that last a week, putting the idea on the back burner, pulling it back up to the front burner, looking at “just four more houses,” asking your cousins what they think about it at the next wedding you

5 6 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • SEPTEMBER 1 9 , 2 0 2 5 • B US I NE S S

go to, then putting everything on the back burner again for three more months – there comes a point when it’s plain to see that “no decision, is a decision.”

Is there such a concept as a “risk free decision?” I’m afraid there aren’t too many of those. But everything and anything can be a learning opportunity if we decide to frame it as such. If we decided to buy the house, then we bought the house. We made a decision. We did the thing. In cities where the average monthly rents are on the higher end of the spectrum and renting $3,000 a month times 12 months = $36,000 a year, it could just be the best decision one makes.

And three years in that apartment can equal $108,000 in rent money alone. Buying a home, at a locked in monthly payment, even with a slightly higher interest rate than a coworker’s or a cousin’s rate – is not necessarily a “bad” decision.

Many of my clients would look at the check being cut to them, or the deposit being transferred into their bank accounts after selling a home they owned for 5-10 years, and think, “Wow. I saved up a decent amount of money!”

Could they have played it safer in the stock market? Could they have bought more bitcoin when the price was right? Maybe. Did they realize they would have to replace the washer and dryer a year later, as well as pay to get part of the roof resurfaced? Maybe not. Are most decisions final and irreversible? They usually aren’t. We, as human beings, are allowed to change our minds. Sometimes we make a decision, then use what we learned in that process to inform our next decision. And sometimes, though we had to buy a few new appliances, resurface the roof, and decided to add more outlets to a house that was built in 1936, even those costs can be offset by the amount of money that is not being thrown into the hands of a landlord or management company.

And that, my friends, is what most therapists would call, “progress, not perfection.”

JOSEPH HUDSON

is a referral agent with Metro Referrals.

He can be reached at 703-587-0597 or joemike76@gmail.com.

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MICHAEL MOORE MICHAEL.MOORE@COMPASS.COM M. 202.262.7762 O. 202.386.6330 “Awesome experience right down to the smallest of details! If it’s real estate in DC, I only use Michael Moore!”

- Julie, DC client

Michael Moore has been in real estate longer than some agents have been alive-and somehow, he’s still having fun.

With over 30 years of experience (and not a single dramatic meltdown), he’s the guy you call when you want to buy or sell a home without losing your mind, your money, or your sense of humor.

Clients don’t just come back for his expertise (which is rock-solid); they come back because working with Michael is weirdly enjoyable. Like, “Why am I laughing during escrow?” enjoyable. He’s sharp, steady, and always in your corner-ready to guide, strategize, and maybe even crack a joke when you need it most.

Calm under pressure and quick with a dad joke, Michael treats real estate like an art, a science, and occasionally, a highstakes improv routine. He’s closed just about every kind of deal-and probably done it in the driver’s seat of his beloved 1960 Imperial Crown. (Yes, he collects classic cars. Yes, they’re glorious. No, you can’t borrow one.)

In a business full of drama and fast talkers, Michael Moore is the rare mix of real estate wizard, cool-headed negotiator, and the guy who actually makes the whole thing fun.

Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 1313 14th Street NW Washington, DC 20005 | 202.386.6330

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