Fabrice Houdart | A weekly newsletter on LGBTQ+ Equality
This week: Hungary’s thorn in the EU, radical alliances in Europe, Iranian election illusions, Israel's disturbing comparisons, US presidential shake-ups, corporate DEI challenges, and much more...
Merry Wednesday, dear readers. There are a few reasons to rejoice: we survived one of the craziest episodes of “America, The Empire.” Today, I also celebrate the 200th edition of this newsletter! Two years after I launched the newsletter in June 2022, when I badly needed a platform, I am amazed I have not been fully canceled. Your support and, at times, constructive criticism have been the cornerstone of this journey, and I am incredibly grateful.
This week’s edition delves into Hungary’s clash with the EU, radical political alliances in Europe, and Iran's façade of electoral change. We'll also explore significant developments in the US presidential race, corporate diversity challenges, and the ever-evolving LGBTQ+ business and cultural scenes. Let’s dive in!
This week: Hungary’s thorn in the EU, radical alliances in Europe, Iranian election illusions, Israel's disturbing comparisons, US presidential shake-ups, corporate DEI challenges, and the latest LGBTQ+ business and culture.
Global news
Hungary: Viktor Orbán, A European Dilemna
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is a real thorn in the European Union’s flesh as he faces backlash for his recent meeting with Vladimir Putin. Another sign that LGBTQ+ issues in the region are always the proverbial “canary in the coal mine.” Indeed, his administration's anti-LGBTQ+ policies, particularly the ban on the portrayal of homosexuality to minors, have drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations and have sparked significant tensions with the European Union. Budapest Pride a month ago highlighted domestic resistance against these repressive measures. In March, Luxembourg's out Prime Minister Xavier Bettel openly condemned these laws. Three weeks ago, out U.S. Amb. David Pressman also blasted Orbán for “campaigning for Trump.”
Europe: meet Vannacci, Bardella’s racist and homophobic buddy
I am a colossal adept at the “tell me your friends, and I will tell you who you are” approach to assessing characters. Whenever I meet someone, I check their Instagram and get a good glimpse into their soul. Roberto Vannacci, the controversial Italian general known for his inflammatory remarks about minorities, including gay people, was recently elected vice president of the European Parliament group led by French Jordan Bardella (Rassemblement National). In his book "Il mondo al Contrario" ("The World Upside Down"), General Roberto Vannacci asserts that gay people are "not normal" and promotes the "Great Replacement" theory, suggesting that Muslim migrants are supplanting ethnic Italians. The book, which has been widely criticized for its homophobic and racist content, led to Vannacci's dismissal from his military positions. Vannacci’s election symbolizes the growing acceptance of radical ideologies within European politics.
Iran: Illusion of Change in Recent Elections
The recent presidential election in Iran saw the victory of a so-called reformist candidate, Massoud Pezeshkian, a development no foreign force really commented on. Despite a broad public desire for change, many observers remain skeptical about any substantial shift in power. Real influence continues to rest with the Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, the Revolutionary Guards, and a judiciary deeply entrenched in the values of the revolution. Like many before, this election is viewed as a facade, maintaining the status quo while offering the appearance of democratic choice. As long as the core power structures remain unchanged, significant reforms, particularly concerning human rights and LGBTQ+ issues, seem unlikely.
Israel: Otzma Yehudit Legislator Equates Same-Sex Marriage to Incest
So much for national unity: this week, Yitzhak Wasserlauf, the far-right Minister of Negev and Galilee Development, equated same-sex marriage to incest when asked why same-sex couples shouldn't enjoy the same rights as heterosexual couples. His comments have sparked backlash, with LGBTQ+ advocacy group Aguda condemning his statements as ignorant and troubling coming from a public official. Read the full story here.
World Bank: Ajay Banga Must Stand Firm on Uganda
On GroundUp (please read it here), Frank Mugisha and I discuss the importance of the World Bank maintaining its suspension of lending to Uganda following the enactment of the Anti-Homosexuality Act. We highlight that Uganda's mitigation measures are inadequate and fail to address discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. This stance is crucial for the credibility of the World Bank and the integrity of its inclusive development agenda under President Ajay Banga.
France: so many gay athletes at the Olympics
The 2024 Paris Olympics will feature at least 144 publicly out LGBTQ+ athletes, marking the second consecutive Summer Games with triple-digit representation.
US News
Presidential Bid: A Sigh of Relief and Lessons Learned
A few weeks ago, an unusual presidential candidate, who goes by the name "Literally Anybody Else," gained attention in the lead-up to the 2024 election. This gimmicky campaign highlighted a significant portion of the population’s frustration with the proposed candidates for November and the desire for change. Well, we have now changed the menu: hopefully, the Democrats won’t squander it, and you have made a BIG check. The celebration of President Biden's “courage,” “patriotism,” and “heroism” this week struck me as an indicator of the fact that Americans expect individualism instead of public service from their politicians. It is a chilling observation to make.
How Pro-LGBTQ+ is Harris?
Vice President Kamala Harris, running for president after Joe Biden's exit, has sparked a lot of energy and creativity from the LGBTQ+ community (by the way read her profile in The Nation today). Her announcement led to viral memes and videos, including a popular supercut of Harris laughing to Charli XCX's "Brat" with over 1.3 million views. On Fire Island Pines, men wore "brat" crop tops in lime green with Harris's name, showing that even hedonistic gay men got awakened. Despite past criticisms as California's Attorney General, Harris's commitment to LGBTQ+ rights is evident in her actions, such as officiating same-sex marriages and appointing openly lesbian Karine Jean-Pierre as her campaign manager. Major LGBTQ+ organizations, including HRC, and prominent figures have endorsed her, highlighting her pro-lgbtq+ solid track record.
Gender Bias in Naming: The Case of Kamala Harris
One of my friends raises an essential point about the gender bias in how we refer to public figures, suggesting that we should call Kamala Harris by her last name, as we do for men “Obama,” “Biden,” and “Trump.” Men are often given the respect of being referred to by their last names, which conveys seriousness and professionalism. In contrast, women are frequently called by their first names, which can diminish their perceived authority and professionalism. At best, they sometimes get a full name like “Nancy Pelosi.”
A Kamala Harris/Pete Buttigieg 2024 Ticket: not this time
The potential pairing of Harris and Buttigieg for the 2024 presidential election generated significant buzz and excitement among the same gay men. Discussions among supporters highlight Buttigieg's practical communication skills and his ability to appeal to a broad audience, including those from his home state of Indiana. Harris, a Black woman, coupled with Buttigieg, a white gay man and prominent political figure, is, in my (humble?) opinion, not such a good idea: it creates a vast “wokism” target on the ticket’s back. Let’s find a vice president more appealing to the slim, moveable middle. See here.
How anti-LGBTQ+ is JD Vance?
Sen. JD Vance's selection as former President Trump's running mate was met with annoyance by the community (not the entire community; see a public service announcement from Gay Trumpians here). Vance has a history of anti-LGBTQ+ statements and sponsors federal legislation aimed at curtailing transgender rights, including a nationwide ban on gender-affirming care for minors and prohibiting "X" gender markers on passports. His stance and rhetoric have been met with strong opposition from LGBTQ+ advocates who fear the implications for their rights and safety under a potential Trump-Vance administration.
Queering the Boardroom
Darren Walker to Step Down in 2025
Walker, who has revolutionized the Ford Foundation by focusing on addressing inequality and social justice, will step down at the end of 2025 after a 12-year tenure. Overseeing $7 billion in grants, Walker's leadership saw the foundation's assets grow from $11.1 billion to $16.8 billion. Known for his strategic shift towards tackling wealth disparities and societal injustices, Walker was recently the keynote at the dinner of the Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors. For more details, see here.
Nasdaq Board Diversity Rule Under Judicial Microscope
Read this update from Ogletree Deakins on the Fifth Circuit Court’s upcoming ruling on the SEC's approval of Nasdaq's board diversity rule. This decision follows a reconsideration request after a panel sided with the SEC.
The rule requires companies with more than five board members to have two members who are from an underrepresented group, including one female and one person who self-identifies as Black, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, Alaskan Native, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, biracial, or LGBTQ+.
The gay business
If Kamala Harris Is a D.E.I. Candidate, So Is JD Vance
In America, for some strange reason, DEI is the scarecrow word of the year, the worst insult on the big playground of American politics. Calling Harris “a DEI candidate” suggests her achievements are unearned, attributing them to diversity, equity, and inclusion (D.E.I.) programs. Lydia Polgreen argues in the fascinating piece this week that if Harris is a “DEI candidate,” JD Vance is too. However, JD Vance's rise, celebrated for his journey from poverty to the elite, also exemplifies D.E.I. In the meantime, Susan Rice called out what’s behind the label “D.E.I. Hire,” see below:
Both& Takes the Fashion World by Storm, One Fit at a Time
Both& are rapidly becoming the go-to brand for trans and nonbinary consumers, tackling the long-ignored issue of fit and sizing. Both& have developed the first fit system specifically for those assigned females at birth who desire a masculine silhouette. In just two years, they've hit seven figures in revenue without relying on venture capital, instead drawing in top talent and celebrities like Bella Ramsey. With a cheeky nod to their avoidance of the "frat-bro VC" scene, this brand is not only filling a market gap but redefining fashion inclusivity. Read more about their journey here.
Et tu, John Deere?
John Deere has announced it will cease sponsoring Pride following a targeted right-wing online campaign, similar to a recent move by Tractor Supply. This decision comes as the culture wars heat up ahead of the presidential election, with Deere stating it will no longer support external social or cultural events. However, we are told it maintains a commitment to workforce diversity (?), which I am sure the gay employees will appreciate. This shift highlights the growing influence of conservative activists like Robby Starbuck, who have pressured corporations to reconsider their stances on social issues. For more details, read the full story here
The semi-cultural desk
The Dreamlike Life of "No Lifers"
It’s time I get a Mubi subscription. In "Eat the Night," directed by Caroline Poggi and Jonathan Vinel, the film explores the lives of Pablo (gay Pablo) and his younger sister Apolline, who are left to fend for themselves after being abandoned by their father. They find solace in the online game "Darknoon," blurring the lines between their virtual and real worlds. As Pablo falls for Night and incurs the wrath of a rival gang, the siblings navigate a gritty reality intertwined with their digital escapism.
"Oh Mary!": A Theatrical Triumph with an LGBTQ+ Twist
"Oh Mary!", the surprise theatrical sensation starring Cole Escola as Mary Todd Lincoln, deftly blends historical drama with contemporary LGBTQ+ themes. Set during the Civil War, the play explores President Abraham Lincoln’s internal and external battles, including the fictionalized anguish over his wife Mary's struggles with alcohol and his romantic entanglement with a male assistant. Escola’s portrayal of Mary, alongside Conrad Ricamora’s Lincoln, captivates audiences by intertwining humor and poignancy, offering a fresh perspective on historical narratives through an LGBTQ+ lens. The production transitions to Broadway: see the opening night photos here.
Rob Anderson's "Gay Science"
Better be good. I just ordered it, and it wasn't cheap. Rob Anderson's "Gay Science," adapted from his popular online series, offers a satirical yet insightful examination of LGBTQ+ stereotypes in a textbook-style format. Known for his comedic recaps of millennial content, Anderson uses humor to dissect and critique stereotypes, blending educational elements with entertaining narratives. In an interview with Out Magazine, Anderson discussed the challenges of balancing humor with sensitivity in today's political climate, emphasizing his intent to critique rather than perpetuate stereotypes.
France: being queer is still a weapon to discredit politicians
I was at lunch yesterday, and it started strongly when someone asked me if it was true Macron’s wife is trans. The rumor was designed to discredit the President (read more on PinkNews). Gala (Gala.fr) also reports this week that Jordan Bardella, the leader of France's Rassemblement National (RN), has reportedly been leveraging rumors about his sexual orientation to maintain his public image. A close associate revealed to Elle magazine that Bardella not only allows these rumors to circulate but also finds them amusing and uses them to his advantage. For instance, before a debate with Gabriel Attal, he laughed about the suggestive montages that might emerge, further fueling the rumors. This strategic ambiguity seems to enhance his appeal and media presence. Calling a candidate gay might be backfiring.
The Adventures of Honey and Leon
A 2027 book, “The Adventures of Honey & Leon,” in which Alan Cumming and Grant Shaffer narrate the whimsical story of two rescue mutts who shadow their dads on a European work trip to protect them, has become the latest banned book in America. Honey and Leon, worried about their dad’s safety, embark on a covert mission filled with humorous and heartwarming escapades. This charming tale inspired a musical adaptation by the New York City Children’s Theater, celebrated for its engaging script, delightful music, and stellar performances. However, it’s worth noting that the book and its adaptations faced some controversy regarding the portrayal of same-sex parenting, sparking discussions about LGBTQ+ representation in children’s literature. Despite this, Honey and Leon’s adventures remain a beloved narrative about love, loyalty, and the lengths we go to for those we care about.
The Gay Agenda
Take a Break: Summer's Respite in a Chaotic World
Nothing on the agenda. Amid relentless global turmoil, here is my invitation to solace this summer. Pace yourself; the fall promises to be brutal, trust me. Inspired by Albert Camus's reflections on nature's enduring presence against human madness, join me in a summer pursuit of happiness at the Met Cloisters. I also started watching “The Bear” on Hulu and enjoyed Thelma and Horizon: An American Saga this week. Such a break promises to return us more resilient, insightful, and attuned to the world in September, which are essential qualities in these times.
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That’s a wrap for this week, my dearest readers. Tonight, I am having a little celebration for our 200th issue. Your engagement keeps this conversation alive and vibrant. Please share this newsletter with your network and consider supporting our mission by becoming a paid subscriber. Here’s to many more editions and milestones together!
Congratulations and thank you for 200 newsletters!!