Scroll To Top

Pennsylvania

News from within the borders of Pennsylvania and the fight for LGBT equality there. Learn more about past and present obstacles toward achieving equality in Pennsylvania, including hate crimes law, transgender rights, adoption, and other rights denied to same-sex couples and LGBT people. The Advocate also covers the campaigns of groups opposed to marriage equality and explores how gay marriage is covered in mainstream media. We stay on top of developments so that you can stay informed about this issue.

Pennsylvania Drag Queen Story Hour canceled amid bomb concerns

A planned library event in Lancaster became the latest target of right-wing extremists who forced its cancellation through threats of violence.

Philadelphia Democrat under fire for anti-LGBTQ+ comments in race against gay incumbent

Democrat Lewis Nash Sr. faces backlash for controversial comments on LGBTQ+ issues in the election against out state Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta.

Abortion restrictions amount to sex-based discrimination, state Supreme Court says

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has ruled against an antiquated anti-abortion law, with justices issuing a scathing rebuke of the 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson decision.

Pennsylvania man rants about ‘LGBTQ+, woke-left mob’ in YouTube video with his father’s severed head: report

A son was arrested after filming himself with his father’s decapitated head, unleashing a tirade against President Joe Biden, the LGBTQ+ community, and ‘far-left woke mobs.’

This new LGBTQ+ thrift store in Pennsylvania offers judgement-free fashion

A thrift store in Lancaster County recently opened, giving LGBTQ+ people the opportunity to explore their identities while being "encouraged and built up."

Moriarty’s bar in Philadelphia criticized for transphobic job ad seeking ‘biologically male’ bartender

A Craigslist listing for a “biologically male”’ bartender at a historic Philadelphia bar draws national attention and condemnation from city officials and LGBTQ+ advocates.

Malcolm Kenyatta on breaking barriers and making Pennsylvania Black queer history

The state lawmaker discussed his vision for the auditor general position in the state, advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, and the impact of diverse representation in politics.

Philadelphia LGBTQ+ Activist Kendall Stephens Charged with Rape of Two Boys

The activist became an advocate for trans hate crime protections after a violent transphobic home invasion attack.

Pennsylvania Woman Charged With Hiring Arsonist to Burn Down Estranged Wife's Home

Heather Dibert of Pennsylvania is facing 39 felony and misdemeanor charges, including conspiracy to commit murder, and the man she hired is charged with attempted criminal homicide.

Pennsylvania Library Director Resigns After Board Removes Issues of 'Out,' the LGBTQ+ Magazine

Justin Brown quit working for the Northern Cambria Public Library following a heated debate with the library board over the unilateral removal of Out, sparking discussions on censorship and representation in public libraries.

Pink Praises Hometown for Voting Out Book-Banning School Board

The new school board president, who had fought against book bans, was sworn in on a stack of them.

Pennsylvania School District Quickly Reverses Far-Right Policies Under Democratic Control

People were so happy with the newly Democrat-controlled school board that they tailgated before the meeting.

Moms for Liberty Sex Scandal Causes Pennsylvania Chapter to Split From National Group

The Northumberland County chapter breaks away to establish the Northumberland County Academic Alliance, distancing itself from national organization’s scandals.

Philadelphia's Transgiving Offers an Inclusive Celebration to Let People Be Their Authentic Selves

Local LGBTQ+ group GALAEI served ziti and hospitality to guests the week before Thanksgiving.

Moms for Liberty-Supporting Superintendent Quits and Gets $700K Severance

The Central Bucks School District in Pennsylvania faces scrutiny over its decision to grant outgoing superintendent Abram Lucabaugh a severance package exceeding $700,000 following his endorsement of far-right educational policies.

Watch Moms for Liberty Get Hilariously Roasted by Comedian Over Book Ban Attempt

This is exactly why LGBTQ+ book bans don't protect kids at all.

Rue Landau Is First Out LGBTQ+ Person Elected to Philadelphia City Council

But Landau says she will definitely not be the last.

Suspect in Murder of Gay Journalist Josh Kruger Arrested

The award-winning journalist and LGBTQ+ activist was shot dead in his home, but disturbing allegations have emerged about his relationship with his accused killer.

Remembering the LGBTQ+ History of a Queer Haven in Pennsylvania’s Countryside

Uncover the history of New Hope, Pennsylvania, the subject of five short documentaries premiering this fall.

Philadelphia Becomes Sanctuary City for Gender-Affirming Care

Mayor Jim Kenney’s recent directive safeguards individuals involved in gender-affirming care, setting a progressive precedent amid restrictive state legislation nationwide.