Fabrice Houdart | A weekly newsletter on LGBTQ+ Equality
This week: the Olympics ceremony bien sûr, AIDS2024, a Ghannoying decision, hearing from Musk's trans daughter and JDVance's trans friend, DJ Barbara Butch, Thomas Jolly, Krish Omkar, and much more...
Welcome to the 30-minute late 201st Issue of my newsletter! Salut, mes amis! Buckle up for l’été de tous les dagers and another fabulous ride through LGBTQ+ news and culture. This week, we start with the Paris 2024 Olympics, where the opening ceremony was nothing short of a revolutionary spectacle, from decapitated Marie-Antoinette to a blue Dionysos in underpants, and continue with the soap opera of American Politics. As always, our goal is to keep you informed and entertained, so grab a glass of rosé and enjoy the read!
This week: the Olympics ceremony bien sûr, AIDS2024, a Ghannoying decision, hearing from Musk's trans daughter and JDVance's trans friend, DJ Barbara Butch, Thomas Jolly, Krishna Omkar, Rob Jetten, and much more…
Paris 2024 Olympics
Bold Choices at the Opening Ceremony pay off.
It made the French people proud; globally, it did not leave many people indifferent. In the words of Tony Estanguet, the organizer of the games: "Humanity is beautiful when it comes together!". Directed by a gay man, Thomas Jolly (see Coming and Going section), the show celebrated French culture and diversity by breaking traditional norms. Highlights included a decapitated Marie-Antoinette, Aya Nakamura and the Garde Républicaine’s performance in front of the Académie française, and Philippe Katerine, dressed only in underpants and painted blue, as Dionysos (more on this specific performance below as it has been the gift that keeps on giving). Other notable moments celebrating French diversity were the cauldron lighting by Guadeloupean athletes and Axelle Saint-Cirel's rendition of the French national anthem. Despite some censorship by foreign broadcasters, the revolutionary spirit and creativity of the event were widely praised, culminating in Céline Dion’s moving rendition of “L’hymne à l’amour,” a nod to unity amid France's political challenges (a euphemism for fascism at our gates). If I still had tears, I’d have cried.
Not every supper is the last one.
Around Katerine were drag queens in some “tableau,” which created an unforeseen opportunity for conservatives to mask their homophobia under the guise of art criticism and the protection of Christian iconography. Even Trump called it a “disgrace,” and god knows he is a specialist in everything disgraceful. Meant to promote unity and the freedom to be themselves, the tableau did look like it was inspired by the “Last Supper” at the Olympics. However, Jolly eventually noted he was inspired by "The Feast of the Gods.” In any case, French conservatives took the opportunity to double knot an Hermés’ scarf around their neck and walk out in a puff, with the Church rushing to make the following statement:
The opening ceremony offered the whole world wonderful moments of beauty, joy, rich in emotion and universally praised. This ceremony unfortunately included scenes of derision and mockery of Christianity, which we deeply deplore.
Now, they won’t let it go.
I am fuming a little because, like most gay people of my generation, I had to endure endless homophobia in my childhood (like Jolly actually - see below) exile, then the 2013 Anti-Gay-Marriage tea party, and constant mockery about my family by these people, but God forbids they ever feel so slightly offended. F**ing snowflakes. Frankly, it would be hilarious if some of the participants, including the DJ Barbara Butch, hadn’t received death threats as a result. All week, I had to read alarmist articles about our “Pagan Gods” agenda, and here are the types of ridiculous comments I saw on my Facebook feed:
In response to the blasphemy committed during the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, #NovakDjokovic brandished his #cross yesterday for his first match in the Olympic tournament
Grindr's measures to protect LGBTQ+ athletes, a positive sign
In a Fortune piece last week, I commended Grindr for taking proactive steps to protect LGBTQ+ athletes at the Paris Olympics. By disabling location-based features and providing free access to premium safety tools, Grindr ensures that athletes can use the app without fear of being outed or targeted. I took the opportunity to encourage the app to take greater responsibility for its product and prioritize user safety:
Whether they’re Olympic athletes or just random people that might be robbed or attacked because they’ve been using the app, it’s clearly [Grindr’s] responsibility. It’s kind of encouraging that they take action, because that means that they are realizing that they have responsibilities.
Global News
Poland: The Enduring Legacy of PiS
Talking about the “derision and mockery,” more like the constant humiliation LGBTQ+ people face globally, Polonia Warszawa, a football club in Poland's capital, has condemned an "LGBT-free zone" banner displayed during their recent home game against Znicz Pruszków. The banner, placed by the supporters' group Ultras Enigma, reflects the anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment fueled by Poland's ruling Law and Justice party, thankfully out of power now. Polonia Warszawa's swift action resulted in two-year stadium bans for those responsible. Read more on PinkNews.
Bangladesh: Rohingya Hijras Refugees Speak Up
I was surprised to read about this on CNN. In the crowded refugee camps of Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, Rohingya hijras face rampant sexual violence and abuse. In the article, Salma, a hijra, recounts being abducted and gang-raped by masked men while on her way to a wedding with friends. Despite the severe trauma, Salma and other hijras experience frequent sexual assaults and harassment, often from the very authorities meant to protect them. This marginalized community remains invisible mainly, neglected by humanitarian programs, including UNHCR, and unsupported by local law enforcement, perpetuating their victimization.
World Bank: OutRight turning up the heat
OutRight International's advocacy at the World Bank, spearheaded by the esteemed Andrew Park, is pivotal in addressing the pervasive discrimination faced by 500 million LGBTQ+ individuals in low and middle-income countries. Park, renowned for his expertise on the topic, is supporting more and more LGBTQ+ civil society representatives by engaging with local World Bank offices and leveraging these advocacy opportunities. This, in turn, can help secure financing for projects that specifically benefit LGBTQ+ people, pushing for non-discriminatory practices and promoting LGBTQ+ economic development goals worldwide.
Southeast Asia: Open for Business articulates the economic
At a recent PFIP - Philippine Financial & Inter-Industry Pride conference in Manila, Open for Business, the world's premier global platform for businesses to drive LGBTQ+ equality, previewed its report titled “The Economic Case for LGBTQ+ Inclusion in Southeast Asia.” They discussed the economic impact of discrimination, including brain drain, healthcare disparities, and the LGBTQ+ wage gap. Coalition members like Accenture, PwC, Deutsche Bank, and others support this vital work. Read more here.
Excitement and Controversy at AIDS 2024 Conference
The 25th International AIDS Conference, held from July 22-26, 2024, in Munich and virtually, showcased groundbreaking developments in HIV prevention. The highlight was Gilead Sciences' new drug, lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injectable shown to be 100% effective in preventing HIV in clinical trials. This advancement promises to revolutionize HIV prevention, offering an alternative to daily PrEP pills. However, the high cost of the drug and calls for its licensing to produce affordable generics sparked significant debate among activists, reflecting ongoing challenges in global healthcare access. Read more on Poz Magazine.
Ghana’s Supreme Court Upholds Anti-LGBT Law
On July 24th, Ghana's Supreme Court upheld a colonial-era law criminalizing same-sex conduct, intensifying the ongoing debate over the nation's severe anti-LGBTQ legislation. This decision, made amidst discussions on the harsh Anti-LGBT Bill awaiting the president's signature, reinforces a legacy of discrimination. Human rights groups, including Human Rights Watch, condemned the ruling, urging President Nana Akufo-Addo to veto the bill. Read more about the situation on Human Rights Watch’s blog.
US News
JD Vance and his proverbial trans friend
JD Vance and Sofia Nelson, once close friends from Yale Law School, maintained a deep connection despite their ideological differences until Vance saw an opportunity to climb the ladder by peddling hate. Their exchanges, now public, are a cautionary tale of what happens when you sell your soul to the devil. Their friendship was marked by mutual respect and support, with Vance even bringing homemade baked goods to Nelson after her surgery. However, their relationship soured in 2021 when Vance publicly supported an Arkansas ban on gender-affirming care for minors, leading to a bitter exchange that deeply hurt Nelson. Read more about it in The Times and …donate to Kamala Harris.
Gallup Survey reminds us of the burden of homophobia.
A recent Gallup survey reveals that while societal acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals has increased in the U.S. over the past decade, nearly 18% of LGBTQ+ adults have never come out to anyone. This statistic is higher among bisexual adults, with 23% not out to anyone, compared to 5% of gay and lesbian adults. The survey also highlights that LGBTQ+ adults recognize their sexual orientation at similar ages across generations but come out at younger ages now than in the past. Despite improved societal acceptance, 25% of LGBTQ+ individuals report experiencing discrimination in the last year, underlining that our journey is far from over.
Randy Rainbow’s tune “KAMALA“
It dates back to 2020 (where is Randy Rainbow these days?), but I think it’s worth rewatching:
So Fabrice, Who will be VP?
Well, thank you for seeking my humble opinion. I see Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro as the frontrunner, as he would secure key electoral votes and be historically significance as a first Jewish VP. The choice is crucial for balancing the ticket and energizing the base, making this a rather exciting few weeks. I will be at the DNC Convention from Sunday, August 18th, to Friday, August 23rd, while the twins are in summer camp and i feel like an orphan.
Queering the Boardroom
Key LGBTQ+ moves in the Boardroom
James A. Hilt has stepped down from the board of Hibbett Sports Inc., and Leone D. Patterson will leave her role as Chief Financial and Business Officer at Tenaya Therapeutics to join Zymeworks Inc. as Executive Vice President, Chief Business Officer, and Chief Financial Officer starting September 1. Lorrie M. Norrington (former. President of eBay) has been appointed to the board of Gupshup, and Patrick Machado is now Chair of the Board at Prota Therapeutics.
Securing a Corporate Board Seat - check out this Recording and tips!
Women in the Boardroom had an excellent session titled "Steps to Help You Secure a Corporate Board Seat." the 30-minute recording is now available. The webinar covered essential tips for crafting a compelling board bio and detailed information on various packages to support your boardroom journey.
A busy Fall2024 for the Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors
I better gather my strength as we will have a busy fall, starting in September, when the Association is hosting its annual conference and will host a dinner in DC featuring Daniel Zelikow. Then, we will head to San Francisco and Seattle before our yearly event at the National Association of Corporate Directors’ Summit (again in DC). In November, the Association will host its first in-person Board meeting in Miami to consider its future. Your donation to support the Association’s crucial mission is tax deductible under 501(c)3 provisions.
Navigating Social Media Culture Wars in the Boardroom
Here is an interesting piece from today's Agenda. In light of Tractor Supply Co.'s silly antagonistic move, CEO Hal Lawton reported no measurable impact on business despite a 3% stock drop and calls for his resignation. Yet, experts advise boards to move cautiously, gathering stakeholder feedback and preparing for social media-driven activism, ensuring responses do not exacerbate conflicts but maintain corporate stability and inclusivity. This is my advice too :)
The Gay Business
DEI Remains a Priority for CEOs
Fortune Analytics (*) says CEOs prioritize Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in their strategic agendas despite ongoing debates. A recent survey shows that 40% of CEOs embed DEI into their strategic priorities, while 31% set measurable targets to track progress—additionally, 30% focus on providing regular DEI updates to their boards and establishing employee resource groups. The primary challenges for advancing DEI efforts include competing priorities and talent acquisition, with public backlash being a minor concern at just 14%. Read more about the Fortune Deloitte CEO survey here.
And yet, Corporate America Braces for Legal Storms Over DEI Programs
Or at least that’s what Agenda claims. Some businesses have reacted to the wave of lawsuits by adopting vague language and reducing the visibility of DEI initiatives. The Society for Human Resource Management recently dropped "equity" from its guidelines, reflecting that courage of one’s conviction is in short supply in the corporate world. Yet, experts like Joelle Emerson, CEO of Paradigm, argue that steadfast commitment to DEI will ultimately yield significant business benefits. Companies like J.M. Smucker and Abercrombie maintain and expand their DEI efforts despite the turbulence.
Robby Starbuck: The charmer behind this DEI backlash mess
On Popular Information, we learn more about Robby Starbuck, the dude behind campaigns against Tractor Supply and John Deere. A former music video director turned conservative activist, dear Robby worked with high-profile artists like Snoop Dogg and Smashing Pumpkins before shifting to political activism and running unsuccessfully for Congress in 2022. Starbucks leverages social media to incite boycotts and pressure companies into eliminating LGBTQ+ and DEI programs, citing them as divisive and contrary to shareholder interests.
Musk's Transgender Daughter Speaks Out Against His Treatment
In an exclusive interview with NBC News, Vivian Jenna Wilson, Elon Musk's transgender daughter, revealed the emotional abuse she endured from her father due to her queer identity. Wilson, 20, recounted how Musk berated her for being feminine, pressured her to appear more masculine, and was largely absent from her life. This interview comes in response to Musk's recent public statements denying her gender identity and claiming he was "tricked" into consenting to her medical treatment. Wilson emphasized that Musk's consent was informed and deliberate, countering his narrative. Indeed, as Jesus said, “it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” I suspect Musk lives in a hell of his own making.
Semi cultural desk
Olympic Love Story Between an Argentine Player and a Dutch Politician
Field hockey forward Nicolás Keenan from Argentina’s national team is in a relationship with Dutch parliamentarian Rob Jetten, who is cheering him on at the Paris 2024 Olympics. In an Instagram post, Jetten, 37, showed his nephews ready to support Argentina, showcasing his unwavering love and support for his partner. Keenan, 27, has had a remarkable hockey career with medals at the Pan American Games and is now set for his second Olympic appearance. His relationship with Jetten, a prominent politician from the Democrats 66 party, has garnered interest because …they are good-looking.
Charles Blow Revisits the "Born This Way" orthodoxy.
Charles M. Blow, in his New York Times opinion piece this week, challenges the widely embraced notion that queer people are "born this way." Inspired by Lady Gaga's 2011 anthem, which became a cultural touchstone, Blow argues that the slogan, while politically influential, oversimplifies the science of sexual orientation. Emerging research suggests that genetics and prenatal hormones contribute to queerness but do not fully determine it. Blow contends that a nuanced understanding, acknowledging fluidity and diverse experiences, is essential for genuine acceptance and equality within the LGBTQ+ community. This perspective encourages us to affirm and protect individuals' rights, irrespective of the origins of their identity.
“Born this way” may, unfortunately, have been an oversimplification. It’s probably closer to the truth to say that people are “formed this way.”
Oprah and Gayle tackle the lesbian rumor
In a recent interview on Melinda Gates’ platform, Oprah Winfrey and Gayle King humorously dispelled the age-old rumors about their supposed romantic relationship. Oprah, now 70, and Gayle, 69, shared anecdotes from their decades-long friendship, emphasizing their deep, platonic bond. Gayle quipped that the rumors even made it harder for her to get a date. Oprah laughed, saying if they were indeed a couple, they would have been upfront about it.
In other news, is Mister France 2024 gay? Christine and the Queens/Redcar released a few songs this week, a portrait of DJ Barbara Butch in Têtu.
Coming and going
London Stock Exchange hires Krishna Omkar
I love to say that Krishna Omkar is the glue of the global LGBTQ+ community. As such, we should all rejoice in his professional successes. The London Stock Exchange (LSE) has appointed him this week to spearhead its digital assets initiative. Starting August 5, Omkar will lead LSE's digital assets consortium, reporting to Darko Hajdukovic, head of new and private markets. Omkar, recognized as one of Financial News' Rising Stars of European Finance 2024, recently played a crucial role at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in reforming the UK's primary market rules.
Attal et Darmanin à couteaux tirés in France
French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal and Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin have clashed publicly over several issues (a few weeks ago, Politico had called it “Macron’s heirs duel over his scraps,” which was funny). The rift between the two was visible during the Bastille Day ceremonies a few weeks ago. For Attal, it is probably because Macron and Darmin kept him in the dark about the parliamentary dissolution. I put my money on Attal; the gays always win bitter feuds.
Thomas Jolly, the IT Boy of the Month
Guess who just got his bio in Queerbios? Thomas Jolly! While sadly, he had to deal with the artificial controversy I outlined earlier, the New York Times had a great piece about him a week ago in which we learned that “Jolly, 42, grew up in a small village in Normandy on the outskirts of Rouen, the eldest of two children of a nurse mother and printer father who nurtured his passions for dolls and classical dance. In middle school, he was bullied, but he found theater a safe harbor where he was encouraged to tap into his deeper self and not to hide it.”
The Gay Agenda
August 19–22: see you in Chicago for the DNC Convention
As I mentioned, now that this race has become exciting, I will be heading out on Sunday, the 19th, to Chicago to attend the DNC convention, mostly the gay parties (reach out if you will be in town and we can scurry the halls together). The DNC will feature major speeches, including a keynote address by Biden on the opening night and the much-anticipated announcement of Harris's running mate.
September 14th: Gender Liberation March in Washington D.C.
On September 14th, the Gender Liberation March will take place in Washington, D.C., organized by the Brooklyn Liberation March, Women’s March, and Trans Prom. With the Supreme Court case on gender-affirming care and ongoing total bans on abortion, this mobilization aims to promote bodily autonomy, self-determination, and collectivism. Activist Raquel Willis, who is behind it stated:
It is beyond time for all warriors for abortion access, gender-affirming care, reproductive justice, and LGBTQ+ rights to join forces.”
September 22nd: Hong Kong PinkDot
In Hong Kong, the annual LGBTQIA+ community event Pink Dot HK features concerts, forums, and many booth activities, both cultural and educational, to continue promoting diversity and inclusion. It is held from 1 pm to 7 pm at the West Kowloon Cultural District Art Park.
November 11-15: ILGA World Conference 2024
The 31st ILGA World Conference is set to take place in Cape Town, South Africa, from November 11-15, 2024. Member organizations are encouraged to participate in the democratic process by submitting proposals and nominations by August 20, 2024. You can register here.
Until Next Time...
And that’s a wrap for this week! I have been unwinding which explains why this newsletter is 30 minutes late! I read “The Long Island Compromise,” which is excellent and echoed my views on intergenerational trauma/ I watched a bunch of silly French Comedies such as Heureux Gagnants or Ma Famille T’adore Déjà, both great and L’Incroyable Embouteillage 2 (terrible) which put me in a great mood. As we bask in the afterglow of the Paris Olympics' flamboyant display, let's carry forward the spirit of inclusivity and resilience. Stay fabulous, stay informed, and never let our opponents grind you down. Remember, every rainbow needs a bit of rain to shine bright. À bientôt, my dear readers!
*A note on the methodology of the Fortune/Deloitte survey: from June 11 to June 26, 83 respondents responded to the survey, which was sent to the Fortune CEO Community. That includes chief executives from Fortune 500 and Global 500 companies and those attending Fortune conferences.
Thirty minutes late! Finally proof that you may be human! Thanks for another great issue. Keep up the great, albeit late, work Fabrice.