Fabrice Houdart | A weekly newsletter on LGBTQ+ Equality
This week: homophobic parents, Ghana and Uganda’s self-inflicted wounds, Trump’s anti-trans ads, a poll on corporates, Toyota flips off the community, Roy Cohn’s specter, Tammy’s seat, and much more..
Welcome to this week's newsletter from National Harbor, where I attended the Annual Summit of the National Association of Corporate Directors (see how we are queering the place; we just hosted our second Annual LGBTQ+ dinner there). Whether it's Uganda bleeding billions due to its anti-LGBTQ laws or Toyota giving the middle finger to our community, the fight for equality has never been more urgent and, frankly, more expensive. In Russia, they're rounding up medics for “LGBTQ+ propaganda and Satanism,” as if the devil wears Prada and advocates for better healthcare. In the US, we are 27 days away from a Presidential election - a $10 billion out-of-control affair that is now peddling transphobia for votes in this last stretch.
This week: homophobic parents, Ghana and Uganda’s self-inflicted wounds, Trump’s anti-trans ads, a poll on corporates, Toyota flips off the community, Roy Cohn’s specter, Tammy’s seat, and much more…
Global News
France: Court Convicts Parents for Homophobic Abuse of Their Son
This story moved me. There is so much suffering behind it; I am in awe of LGBTQ+ people and the dignity with which they walk in a world that often terminally mistreats them. On October 4th, a French court convicted two parents for violence and homophobic insults directed at their son, Lucas Dekens. Dekens chose to speak out at 18 years old, hoping to raise awareness about the issue of familial homophobia. Lucas said he wished his parents had offered an apology instead. Statistics everywhere show that most homophobic violence and verbal abuse take place at the family level.
France too: Extortion via Gay Dating Sites
The recent arrest of two men in France for extorting victims through gay dating sites in the Loire region highlights a growing global issue of crimes targeting LGBTQ+ individuals using “sexual networking” applications. This case draws attention to the widespread underreporting of these crimes, fueled by shame, fear of involving law enforcement, and… dating apps. These lucrative companies bear responsibility and must implement more robust safeguards to prevent predatory schemes.
Russia: Moscow Arrests Medic for 'LGBT Propaganda' and 'Satanism'
Things are not looking too good in the East for gays, devil worshippers, and those at the intersection. Russian authorities arrested a medical professional in the Ulyanovsk region on charges of "Satanism" and promoting same-sex relationships. The FSB, Russia's powerful security service, accused the medic of using Satanism to encourage LGBTQ+ relationships among employees, allegedly linking it to career advancement. The incident is part of Moscow's broader effort to reinforce "traditional family values," a trend which has steadily accelerated since the start of the war in Ukraine, which caused 120,000 deaths and 170,000 to 180,000 injured troops. Talk about toxic masculinity. See in the Moscow Times.
Uganda: Anti-LGBTQ Laws Cost the Nation $1.6 Billion in 12 Months
Open for Business, the global LGBTQ+ business platform CEOs and multinational companies trust to advance LGBTQ+ equality, published a new report showing that Uganda's stringent anti-LGBTQ+ laws have inflicted a heavy financial toll on the country. According to it, the legislation has cost Uganda as much as $1.6 billion in just 12 months, primarily due to significant reductions in foreign direct investment, international aid, trade, and tourism. The study warns that this number could increase to $2.3 billion and $8.3 billion over five years if the laws remain unchanged. Hate comes at a high price. See more on Bloomberg.
Uganda: All Out launches petition targeting the World Bank
All Out has launched a petition urging the World Bank to maintain its aid suspension to Uganda over the country's Anti-Homosexuality Act. While the Bank proposes "mitigation measures" to protect LGBT+ people, these plans fall short. Uganda's government, responsible for the discriminatory law, is expected to implement these measures, and LGBT+ individuals are not explicitly named, leaving them vulnerable. Sign the petition here.
Ghana: Pressure Mounts Over Delay in Ruling on Anti-LGBTQ Bill
On October 8, protesters from the group Arise Ghana, along with several religious organizations, took to the streets demanding a swift judgment on the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill (see BBC). The bill, which could result in up to three years of imprisonment for engaging in same-sex activities, is currently under review by Ghana's Supreme Court. The delay in the court’s ruling - which is convenient for the President and the judiciary - has caused frustration among supporters of the bill. You can see pictures of the demonstration here.
Georgian Parliament Speaker Signs Anti-LGBTQ Law Amid EU Concerns
On October 3, Georgian parliament speaker Shalva Papuashvili signed an anti-LGBTQ+ law after President Salome Zourabichvili refused to endorse it. The legislation, which bans same-sex marriage, LGBTQ+ adoption, and gender-affirming care, mirrors similar laws in Russia. Critics warn that the law jeopardizes Georgia's EU membership bid. (RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty). Papuashvili had grandiose words to justify his antagonistic move - does he know his great-grandkids will be ashamed of his words:
I understand very well that the signing of this law will cause criticism from some foreign partners, but we Georgians have never been afraid of others' judgment when our faith, common sense, and loyalty to the country required us to do so and when we saw that the currents of civilization were going in the wrong direction
In other news
Is Ishiba good news for the gays? The latest from the “Synod on Synodality” and the sad fate of a gay Anglican priest.
US News
Trump and Republicans Bank on Anti-Trans Ads in 2024 Campaign Blitz
This article in the New York Times will make your blood boil. In a last-ditch effort to sway suburban female voters, Donald Trump and other Republican candidates have funneled over $65 million into TV ads focused on transgender issues. These ads, running in competitive races across states like Ohio and Montana, bank on fears around transgender women in sports and taxpayer-funded gender transitions in prisons. Trumpian strategists believe this wedge issue, combined with stances on inflation and immigration, can energize their base while painting Democrats as out-of-touch radicals. Despite mixed results in past elections, the GOP is betting big on this cultural flashpoint ahead of November.
Misleading Claims Spread Amid Hurricane Disaster Relief Efforts
As the U.S. grapples with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and braces for Hurricane Milton, misinformation on social media is out of control. A viral post on X (from an account called EndWokeness) misrepresented a 2023 FEMA roundtable that discussed supporting vulnerable communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, during disasters. The post falsely implied that FEMA is prioritizing LGBTQ+ people over the general population, sparking outrage, the fuel of this presidential election season. Read more in Newsweek or The New York Post if you have the stomach for it.
Advocates Challenge GLAAD Over HIV Stigma Report
Three weeks ago, I mentioned GLAAD’s Fifth State of HIV Stigma Report. HIV advocates are challenging it, arguing it inaccurately claimed a decline in HIV stigma based on flawed data. Over 50 organizations, led by the Sero Project, called for its retraction. While GLAAD has taken steps to correct the issue, the lack of a full retraction has frustrated many advocates. Read Mark King’s take on My Fabulous Disease.
First, GLAAD’s own data from the survey doesn’t measure HIV stigma. It measures whether people – random households in the country that were surveyed – believe that HIV stigma exists.
The post-election race for LGBTQ+ appointments
In the U.S., it’s never too early to champion names for political appointments with the new administration. If they have done right by the party or the campaign, there are many entry points, including the Victory Institute’s Presidential Appointments Initiative. Click here to submit your resume to the David Mixner Political Appointments Program.
Queering the boardroom
The NACD Directorship 100 is super gay.
In corporate America, the 2024 NACD (National Association of Corporate Directors) Directorship 100™ list is making headlines—and yes, it's looking quite fabulous, with 8% of honorees hailing from the LGBTQ+ community even though we hold less than 1% of Board seats. Influential leaders such as Cathy Halligan, James Cole, Jr., Dr. Jesse Ehrenfeld, Matthew Fust, Vanessa Pegueros, Liz Zale, and, if I may, yours truly are in this year’s list of honorees. It’s a reminder that while the boardroom might still be an old boys’ club, it's getting queerer—and stronger—for it.
Webinars that will get you closer to your board seat
On October 9, learn how to ace a board interview with the UNC’s Director Development Initiative (register here). On November 12, explore board opportunities in start-ups, VC-backed, and PE portfolio companies (register here). On December 4, hear how others got their first board seats. Special events include "Anti-Woke Activism and Waning DEI Efforts — Implications for the Corporation" on October 11 (register here). All webinars are free (see here).
New Report Highlights Financial Benefits of Diverse Corporate Boards
A new report from e.l.f. Beauty (remember the So Many Dicks, so few of everyone else campaign?), in partnership with North Carolina A&T State University, reveals that S&P 500 companies with diverse boards outperform their less diverse counterparts. Released on October 7, the "Not-So-White Paper" draws on five years of data, showing that companies with more significant gender and racial diversity in boardrooms have a 15% higher return on equity and a 50% reduction in earnings risk. The report emphasizes that diverse boards face fewer lawsuits and are better equipped to navigate complex business environments.
Republican attorneys target NASDAQ’s rule.
A recent letter from 22 Republican attorneys general makes yet another attempt to denigrate Nasdaq’s Board Diversity Rule in an inflammatory letter. The letter challenges the requirement for companies to meet diversity targets or justify their non-compliance, claiming it is an illegal quota system. Nasdaq always framed the rule as a transparency measure, not a mandate, to promote inclusivity in corporate leadership. For LGBTQ+ people, NASDAQ is a vital effort.
Given Nasdaq’s zealous desire to impose quotas on companies, several of which are headquartered in our states, we are interested in learning what policies Nasdaq has in place to ensure its listed companies are following federal and State antidiscrimination laws.
Board Appointments
Amy Martin Ziegenfuss secured her first official board role at Norte 19, a Mexican hotel brand formerly City Express Hotels and recently acquired by Marriott International. Meanwhile, Kikka Hanazawa has joined the Mercari board. Congratulations to both Amy and Kikka for their remarkable achievements!
The Gay Business
Toyota’s Abrupt Retreat from LGBTQ+ Support
Toyota announced last year that the Land Cruiser would return to the U.S. I'd scream if I saw you in one. Toyota announced via a tweet (classy) last week that it would be withdrawing its support from LGBTQ+ initiatives, including Pride parades and participation in the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index, opting instead for “corporate neutrality.” The decision also restricts Business Resource Group activities. This abrupt shift, which was shared casually on social media, is justified by activist Robbie Strabuck’s theatrics (see quote below) but is probably the result of deep resentment among Toyota’s management for the equity work they had to do. Here is a link to my reaction (spoiler alert: I am not too happy).
a Toyota spokesman stated that Starbucks's public criticism prompted around 30 customer calls to the company's call center, a few questions from dealers, and a few hundred inquiries from employees.
What do you think we should do?
People around me are frustrated by what they perceive as our passivity in the face of a revolt from the old guard. What do you think we should do?
How is HRC responding?
Kelley Robinson has been responding to the pushback by pointing out these are “poor, shortsighted decisions” and highlighting that the majority of the companies are still with us. I watched this Squawk Box segment, where she shared her strategy four weeks ago. You can also see her response to the Toyota exit on LinkedIn.
Semi cultural desk
Caillebotte’s Vision of Masculinity at the Musée d’Orsay
Le Point explores the intriguing focus of Gustave Caillebotte on masculine figures, highlighted in the exhibition “Peindre les hommes” at the Musée d’Orsay. This exhibit, running from October 8 to January 19 (if you happen to make a little Xmas shopping trip to Paris), examines Caillebotte’s unique portrayal of male intimacy and virility, often contrasting with traditional 19th-century masculinity. The show features 70 works that challenge both social and sexual norms of the era. Of course, many experts are uncomfortable with the obvious:
All these baseless assumptions in the United States about his homosexuality make no sense.
The strange story of the GSBA/Equality Arizona executive director
A double life, betrayal, and boardroom hand-wrenching: I was in Seattle last week and heard a story about due diligence that should be a cautionary tale for LGBTQ+ boards. In November 2021, GSBA enthusiastically announced a new Executive Director after a “national search,” then, it all came to a screeching halt. Read more on the Phoenix New Times.
Roy Cohn is back in the Apprentice movie.
I would say that America itself is Roy Cohn’s brainchild. The Apprentice, released on October 11, presents a chilling portrayal of the young Donald Trump’s rise under the mentorship of Roy Cohn. Directed by Ali Abbasi, the film stars Jeremy Strong (Succession) as the ruthless Cohn and Sebastian Stan as the ambitious Trump, capturing the darker side of 1970s and 1980s New York real estate. You can read the Washington Post’s criticism here.
Sebastian
I watched Sebastian on Amazon. Max, a struggling young novelist in London, adopts Sebastian's persona as he navigates a secret life as a sex worker to gather inspiration for his writing. I found it a little boring, though.
Daddies are in
That’s what the Times claims; meanwhile, I haven’t gone on a date since 1992.
Coming and going
Nanette Kazaoka last tour de piste
Nanette Kazaoka, a longtime AIDS activist, ACT UP member, and lifelong dancer, has died. She had her own chapter in Viki Noe’s book F*g Hags, Divas and Moms: The Legacy of Straight Women in the AIDS Community. You can discover or rediscover her on ACT UP Oral History.
Tammy Baldwin is in Danger: Wisconsin Senate Race Tightens
Senator Tammy Baldwin is facing a tough re-election fight as her Republican challenger, Eric Hovde, ramps up attacks centered on her support for LGBTQ+ rights. Baldwin's lead has evaporated, with the race now labeled a toss-up by the Cook Political Report, and the outcome could determine Senate control in 2025. Hovde and his allies have spent millions on ads targeting Baldwin’s trans issues stance and funding for LGBTQ+ programs, tapping into the right-wing “parental rights” movement. As both sides dig in, Baldwin’s campaign faces one of the fiercest Senate battles this cycle. See in the Guardian.
The gay agenda
October 8: International Lesbian Day
October 8 is a day for Lesbians worldwide to come together to celebrate lesbian history, diversity, and culture. I love lesbians - I have been on Outright’s board for years! Here is my message to them: ♥️♥️💋♥️♥️💋♥️♥️💋♥️♥️💋♥️♥️ NPR “celebrated” it with an article on the burden of mental health issues on LBTQ+ women.
October 7-10: Out & Equal canceled Due to Hurricane Melvin
The LGBTQ workplace summit scheduled for October 7-10 at Disney World has been canceled due to Hurricane Melvin. The Board Chair and Executive Director announced it in this LinkedIn video.
October 17: Webinar, LGBTQ Activists in China
Outright International, in collaboration with China Rainbow Collective and China Rainbow Observation, has released an influential report titled “You Are on Our List: Urgent Support Needed for Chinese LGBTQ Activists at Risk.” On October 17th, join the conversation by attending a related webinar at 8 a.m. EST. Register for the event and access the full report here.
October 18th: Webinar, LGBTQ+ Inclusion in Global Development
Join a discussion on the role of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) in fostering LGBTQ+ inclusion globally on October 18th at 9:00 a.m. EST. This event will feature the world-famous Francesco Tornieri of the Asian Development Bank and Clifton Cortez, the World Bank Group’s Global Adviser on SOGI inclusion. They will be joined by Maria Amelia Viteri, an anthropologist, and Lucrezia Raggio, who specializes in human rights advocacy. Register here.
Galas galore. The charity-circuit carousel
It’s Gala season, and I have a new tux as the pants of my previous one cracked at the Outright Gala last summer. I will be at SAGE at Cipriani on October 21st, but it looks like it’s not a black tie.
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Well, that’s it for this week. Sorry for the 1h30-minute delay today: I have been on the road for ten days and have lost track of dates, time, and life goals. But you shouldn’t: whether standing up in court, a corporate boardroom, or simply logging off for the weekend, remember: the march for equality is relentless, and you power it. See you next week.