03/12/24

Hi there,

🐊 Florida can now say gay! In a settlement announced Monday, aspects of the vague 2022 state law — that inspired other similar laws in other states — were clarified. What does that mean? It means that concerns from teachers, students, and activists have been alleviated because of the clarifications made. For instance, students can say gay or trans in classrooms and so can teachers. Discussions about gender and sexuality aren't banned, as long as it's not part of official instruction. Safe spaces can also be promoted, and gay-straight alliances can be formed. Also, libraries aren't affected by the law, which means that many LGBTQ-themed books can be returned to library selves. Lol, DeSantis.

🌈 “This settlement not only reaffirms the rights of LGBTQ+ students and educators to live and speak openly but also marks a significant step towards rectifying the damage inflicted by the 'Don't Say Gay or Trans’ law. It's a testament to what we can achieve when we stand united against discrimination and for the dignity of all LGBTQ+ people in Florida," Nadine Smith, the executive director of Equality Florida, said in a statement. 🌈

❤️ We remember longtime LGBTQ+ activist David Mixner, who worked on Bill Clinton’s presidential campaign, then famously broke with Clinton over policy on LGBTQ+ people in the military, died Monday at age 77. His death was announced on his Facebook page. “It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of David’s passing today,” read a comment under a photo captioned “R.I.P. David B. Mixner. 1946-2024.” The Advocate's John Casey honored his friend in an article from today highlighting the legacy of the LGBTQ+ rights icon.

Onward and upward,

Alex Cooper

How LGBTQ+ advocates secured a victory against Florida's 'don't say gay' law

Octavio Jones/Getty Images

David Mixner, veteran LGBTQ+ activist and presidential adviser, has died at 77

David Mixner Facebook

Gay Godfather David Mixner was both pro-sex and pro-equality

Former Pa. legislator Brian Sims, left, with David Mixner. Image courtesy Sims

Owasso schools failed to protect Nex Benedict, say speakers at board meeting

Screen shot via Owasso School Board YouTube

Even in red states, the vast majority of Americans support LGBTQ+ protection laws

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Florida students allowed to talk about sexual orientation, gender identity after 'don't say gay' settlement

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In GOP-led states with anti-LGBTQ+ laws, school hate crimes quadruple: report

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Lady Gaga defends Dylan Mulvaney from transphobes: 'This is not backlash. This is hatred'

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Check out the latest issue of Plus Magazine!

Plus magazine's March/April issue is full of good vibes and great advice for living your best life possible, regardless of your HIV status.