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Ohio

News from within the borders of Ohio and the fight for LGBT equality there. Learn more about past and present obstacles toward achieving equality in Ohio, including hate crimes law, transgender rights, adoption, and other rights denied to same-sex couples and LGBT people. Learn about individuals--activists, politicians, and allies--who have helped us make strides toward equality. We also cover the campaigns of groups opposed to marriage equality and explore how gay marriage is covered in mainstream media. We stay on top of developments so that you can stay informed about this issue.

Republican Ohio U.S. Senate candidate Bernie Moreno’s LGBTQ+ hypocrisy exposed

The GOP hopeful is trying to explain why an account on an adult website that was allegedly linked to him sought men for sex.

Ohio won't restrict gender-affirming care for adults but still goes after trans youth

Gov. Mike DeWine's administration has made changes to a much-criticized plan.

Ohio man sentenced to 18 years in prison after firebombing church for hosting drag events

Aimenn D. Penny admitted to attacking the Community Church of Chesterland on March 25 using homemade Molotov cocktails, citing anger at two upcoming drag events.

Transgender candidate cleared to run in Ohio despite initial name disqualification

A law around name disclosures is being unevenly interpreted across state jurisdictions.

Ohio Republican implies opponents of her trans bathroom bill should be drowned

Do you think trans kids should be able to use the bathroom that aligns with their identity? This Ohio Republican fallaciously says the Bible wants you drowned.

Second transgender candidate in Ohio challenged over name disclosure law

The use of an obscure provision to target transgender candidates in Ohio raises concerns about election laws and discrimination.

Ohio transgender candidate is disqualified over obscure name change law

Because Vanessa Joy used her legal name and didn’t list her deadname on the petition, she is being removed from the ballot. Now, she's appealing the decision and is ready to challenge it in court.

How Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine is making gender-affirming care inaccessible

His proposed restrictions amount to a ban on gender-affirming care for both youth and adults, according to activists.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signs executive order banning gender-affirming surgeries for minors

Transgender adults in Ohio will now also be required to undergo psychiatric care before receiving gender-affirming treatment.

Trans candidate Arienne Childrey is running for Ohio House and against the state's drag ban sponsor

Arienne Childrey would be the first out trans person in the Ohio legislature. She's looking to unseat GOP state Rep. Angela King.

Ohio Republican Gov. Mike DeWine Vetoes Transgender Health Care and Sports Participation Bans

DeWine's veto is likely to be overridden by the state legislature, as HB68 passed both the state House and Senate with a supermajority.

Couples from Hulu Documentary ‘We Live Here: The Midwest’ Discuss Life After Filming

Discover the poignant journeys of LGBTQ+ families in this Hulu documentary, showcasing resilience, love, and the quest for acceptance in the Midwest.

Ohio Republicans Send Anti-Trans Health Care, Sports Bill to Governor

LGBTQ+ advocates are urging Gov. Mike DeWine to veto the legislation.

Black Trans Woman and Gender-Nonconforming Gay Man Killed in Ohio Double Murder

Amiri Reid and Kejuan Richardson, both 21, were shot to death last month while driving around their city.

Republicans Advocate Transphobic, Authoritarian ‘Project 2025’’ Even After Election Failures

Elections in Ohio and Virginia demonstrated a shift away from extreme right-wing agendas as a Heritage Foundation’s plan called "Project 2025" faces scrutiny for its authoritarianism and controversial stance on transgender people’s existence.

Ohio Voters Put Abortion Rights in State Constitution

They approved Issue 1, a ballot measure enshrining the right.

Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Firebombing Church Over Drag Queen Events

The arsonist admitted to the FBI he “would have felt better” if he had “burned the entire church to the ground.”

Man Avoids Jail Time For Threatening LGBTQ+ High School Students

The man was upset about the recent election of nonbinary prom royalty by students.

Drag Ban Won't Go on Ohio City's Ballot, State Supreme Court Rules

Secretary of State Frank LaRose didn't follow the law in deciding to put the issue before voters, according to the court.

Neo-Nazis Parade Around Florida Chanting ‘Jews Will Not Replace Us’

Some of the neo-Nazis took their hatred on the road to the Sunshine State from Ohio, Wisconsin and Maine.