Fabrice Houdart | A weekly newsletter on LGBTQ+ Equality
This week: Thai celebrations, a trans era in Brazil, a very queer UK, the resilience of Europe’s DEI efforts, hyper-masculinity is back, NYC Botoxgate, David Coote and Pee Wee’s coming out & much more
The ripple effects of America suspending its financial support to LGBTQ+ civil society and its all-out war against corporate mentions of LGBTQ+ inclusion are unknown. How much will we salvage? Is LGBTQ+ leadership working on a plan B? Will Europe experience contagion? Is LGBTQ+ becoming as radioactive as DEI? I wrote a piece Friday on how the mission remains legitimate and urgent, but the tactics for gay liberation must change. At the global level, rainbow flags adorning Bangkok’s balconies and new statistics from the UK reminded us that 95.77% of the LGBTQ+ population does not live in the United States.
This week: Thai celebrations, a trans era in Brazil, a very queer UK, the resilience of Europe’s DEI efforts, hyper-masculinity is back, NYC Botoxgate, David Coote and Pee Wee’s coming out & much more
Global news
Thailand: Same-Sex Marriage
Thailand became the first Southeast Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage, and celebrations swept Bangkok. On January 23, thousands of couples registered their unions, the result of over a decade of activism. Beyond securing equal marital rights, the move is expected to boost Thailand’s tourism industry, contributing 12% to its $500 billion economy. Read more on France24.
UK: youth is gayer than ever
New data from the UK’s Office of National Statistics (ONS) shows that over 10% of 16-to-24-year-olds now identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual—more than double the percentage in 2018. The rise is primarily driven by an increase in bisexual identification, especially among young women. Stonewall’s CEO calls this a "wake-up call" for organizations rolling back LGBTQ+ rights, as this generation will demand equal treatment in workplaces and beyond. Meanwhile, older generations remain far less likely to identify as LGB. See in The Guardian.
Brazil: The Trans Community Is Political
In an unusual move for Le Figaro, its January 24 feature delved into Brazil’s vibrant but embattled trans community. The article profiles prominent figures like Erika Hilton, the first trans woman elected to Congress, who faces threats and harassment in her fight for equality, and Duda Salabert, a fellow lawmaker who recounts voting in a bulletproof vest amid constant death threats. The piece also highlights Gabriela and Enio, parents of Jean, a 13-year-old trans boy who began transitioning at 10, and Efe, a trans artist. Brazil is having a trans moment at odds with the US.
Europe: Steady Commitment to Inclusion
As highlighted in my friend Jens Schadendorf’s recent article, Europe is cautiously holding its ground against the US's rising anti-woke rhetoric. In Poland, labor shortages have pushed businesses, particularly in finance, to sustain LGBTQ+ initiatives despite conservative government pressure. The Netherlands thrives through pragmatic, mainstream strategies, while Germany remains a steady supporter, with organizations like the Uhlala Group and Prout at Work flourishing. Schadendorf’s analysis underscores that the main parts of Europe still believe inclusion remains a competitive advantage - at least for now. Nobody knows how growing pressure from US-based companies in the global business would affect companies' DEI future engagements in Europe.
World: The Return Of Hyper-Masculinity
I read in New York Magazine this week that chins are back in. The article said, “People want to see men. Fey is out. Men are in”. Rolling Stone wrote about MMA’s comeback. From Trump, Elon Musk, and Mark Zuckerberg’s love declaration to strong men and leaders like Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping doubling down on traditional gender roles, hyper-masculinity is also resurging in global politics and business. In international diplomacy, force and rigid hierarchies precede inclusivity and cooperation. Are patriarchal authority, military strength, and a rejection of progressive social norms making a comeback? If so, I want out. I missed the boat. I wear silk pajamas (from Derek Rose) and different perfumes on most occasions.
Hypermasculine jawlines are all the rage in Hollywood. They only cost $12,000.
US News
Banning Military Service by Transgender Troops
Late Monday night, Trump issued an executive order barring transgender individuals from serving openly in the military, calling transgender identities "radical gender ideology" and labeling them incompatible with military discipline. The order directs Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth - who completed sober January successfully - to submit an implementation plan within 30 days, raising concerns about whether current transgender service members—estimated at 15,000 (8,980 active duty & 5,727 reserve troops) could face discharge. Legal challenges were filed within hours. This marks a significant rollback of policies established under the Biden administration, which had allowed transgender troops to serve openly. See more on NPR.
A Draconian Step on Trans Youth
Trump’s latest executive order, titled “Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation,” puts an end to gender-affirming care for minors. The order prohibits medical interventions such as puberty blockers, hormone therapies, and surgeries for individuals under 19, framing these treatments as "irreversible" and "harmful." It was expected, but, as usual, the wording is antagonistic.
Idaho Push Supreme Court to Overturn Same-Sex Marriage
The Idaho House of Representatives has passed a resolution urging the Supreme Court to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the 2015 ruling that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. It passed in a 46-24 vote, with all House Democrats and 15 Republicans opposing it. The resolution still needs approval from the Republican-controlled Idaho Senate before it can be formally sent to the Supreme Court. The push comes amid growing fears after Justice Clarence Thomas suggested revisiting Obergefell in his concurring opinion when Roe v. Wade was overturned. Read more in the NY Times.
The Catastrophe of Development Aid Suspension
The administration’s pause on U.S. foreign aid for a 90-day review jeopardizes critical LGBTQ+ initiatives like the State Department’s Global Equality Fund and USAID’s inclusion programs. These efforts support activists, economic empowerment, and crisis response in regions where LGBTQ+ rights are in crisis, such as Uganda or Uzbekistan. With the executive order emphasizing “alignment with American interests,” programs tackling human rights and inclusion may face cuts, especially as many online resources on USAID’s LGBTQ+ initiatives have disappeared. Imara Jones tweeted, “Shutting down of PREP worldwide today (PEPFAR) could be the most catastrophic,” but then we heard HIV meds were exempt. The fear is also that civil servants will quickly become overzealous:
Many US officials, they said, now fear retribution from Trump administration officials if they are seen as questioning or attempting to evade the halt
Congress: Bathroom Policing Backfires
In a striking misstep, GOP Reps. Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace confronted a cisgender woman in a Capitol bathroom, mistaking her for Rep. Sarah McBride, the first transgender member of Congress (who was interviewed in The New York Times this week, incidentally). The incident, which stemmed from Speaker Mike Johnson’s anti-trans bathroom policy, highlighted the ridiculousness of such regulations. McBride’s office called the episode “predictable,” while critics, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, warned of the harassment these policies invite. Boebert apologized for her error.
Queering the boardroom
LGBTQ+ Executive Moves
Jeffrey Dodd Farnath has stepped down from the board of First Protocol Group. On the appointment side, Robert Lee Hanson has been named CEO of Duckhorn Portfolio, Inc., assuming the role on February 1. Robert B. Chavez will join Macy’s, Inc. as a board member starting April 1. Chavez will also be honored at the Luxury Education Foundation’s (LEF) inaugural gala on May 29, 2025, at Christie’s in New York City.
The gay business
Davos Leaders Push Back
Global business leaders at Davos doubled down on inclusion as a cornerstone of corporate success. CEOs from Uber, Ikea, and Ralph Lauren highlighted how diversity and sustainability drive innovation, improve customer alignment and bolster financial performance. Despite political headwinds, many executives, particularly in consumer-facing industries, argued that the business case for DEI and ESG is stronger than ever. Read the full article here. As Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi put it:
We’re not going to change course. Building a diverse, global workforce is not just positive—it’s good business.
e.l.f. Beauty Is Doubling Down on DEO
e.l.f. Beauty is doubling down. Known for campaigns like “So Many Dicks,” which highlighted gender imbalance on corporate boards, the Oakland-based beauty brand has maintained a bold stance on inclusion. With a workforce that’s 75% women and 40% people of color, e.l.f. Credits its success—including a 700% stock increase since 2020—to embracing diverse perspectives, all without a formal DEI team. CEO Tarang Amin says their approach reflects the values of their loyal, younger customer base. Read more here.
Target Faces Backlash After Scaling Back DEI Initiatives
Target’s decision to roll back its DEI initiatives following Trump’s executive order has sparked backlash from LGBTQ+ groups, particularly in its hometown of Minneapolis. Twin Cities Pride, a longtime beneficiary of Target’s sponsorship, announced the retailer will no longer be welcome at this year’s festival. Read more on Fox Business.
Semi cultural desk
UK: David Coote Uses His Gay Card
Former Premier League referee David Coote has come out as gay—a little late. Recently sacked over alleged cocaine use and a leaked video calling Jürgen Klopp a choice expletive, Coote’s revelation has prompted side-eyes from those who question the timing. While he bravely shared his struggles with shame and hid his sexuality in football's hyper-macho culture, some wonder if this heartfelt confession isn’t about softening the blow of public fallout. Read more on BBC.
Pee-wee Comes Out to Play (Posthumously)
The late Paul Reubens revealed in the new documentary Pee-wee as Himself that he was gay—a secret he kept for decades to protect his career. Premiering at Sundance, the docuseries captures Reubens’ confession: “I was as out as you could be, and then I went back in the closet.” He even shared a gem from his father, who encouraged him to “be the greatest homosexual you can be.” The film also tackles Reubens’ controversies, his AIDS-era fears, and his decision to prioritize his craft over love. HBO will air the series later this year. Read more here.
What to watch? The Pitt on Max
It’s not gay, but anything to distract me from the current context. Anyway, I need to renew my Max subscription before White Lotus III—it's the only thing that keeps me going besides my children.
What to watch? Block Pass
Antoine Chevrollier’s debut feature Block Pass (La Pampa), premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, earning a Queer Palm nomination. The French drama follows Jojo, a young motocross racer outed as gay in his small town, and his best friend Willy, whose unwavering support becomes Jojo’s lifeline. Trailer below.
New York Killers Trial
The trial has begun for three men accused of turning New York City’s gay nightlife into their personal Venmo piggy bank—allegedly drugging, robbing, and, in two tragic cases, killing their victims. Prosecutors say the trio preyed on intoxicated men outside gay bars, dosed them with a fentanyl-laced cocktail, and used their unconscious faces to unlock phones and drain accounts. While the defense argues that it’s unclear which drugs caused the deaths, the prosecution insists the evidence is damning. Read more here.
Coming and Going
Capital Pride Board Member Becomes Acting Labor Secretary
Vince Micone, a longtime Capital Pride Alliance board member, has stepped down to serve as Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor. Micone’s 15-year tenure with the D.C. Pride organization, where he held key leadership roles, ends just months before the city’s WorldPride celebration. A seasoned federal official, Micone is tasked with implementing Trump’s anti-DEI executive orders while his successor, Lori Chavez-DeRemer, awaits Senate confirmation. Micone’s controversial email to Labor Department staff emphasized dismantling diversity programs, sparking criticism. This appointment marks Trump’s second openly gay cabinet pick, after Scott Bessent for Treasury Secretary. Read more in the Blade.
Center for Values in International Development Closes
After nearly five years of championing ethics in international development, the Center for Values in International Development (C4V), led by trans leader Chloe Schwenke, is closing its doors. As the only North American nonprofit dedicated to embedding human dignity, moral motivation, and ethical ideals into development and humanitarian efforts, C4V's closure feels ominous.
Botoxgate: When Cheap Filler Comes at a High Price
Nothing says bargain beauty disaster quite like NYC aesthetician Joey Grant Luther allegedly injecting clients with counterfeit Botox from China—leaving some with double vision, slurred speech, and a deep regret that even filler can’t smooth over. The self-styled skincare guru, who reportedly catered to a primarily male clientele, was arrested for smuggling and fraud after former patients noticed their “refreshing” touch-ups came with some unsettling side effects. One victim even ended up in the hospital with botulism, proving once again that when it comes to Botox, discount is not a good look. Currently out on bail, Luther faces up to 20 years in prison, which should give him plenty of time to reflect—sans fine lines. Read more here.
Karine Jean-Pierre’s farewell piece in Vanity Fair
I am not sure what Jean-Pierre’s message was precisely, but VF is queer AF this month (see the article on Scott Minerd’s estate, too). Read her interview here.
Caitlyn Jenner’s Cognitive Dissonance
Caitlyn Jenner has been slammed for praising Donald Trump’s inauguration despite his immediate executive orders targeting trans rights. I enjoyed this cute comment:
You supporting Trump, it’s like chicken supporting KFC. 🤯
Brad Clark Leaving Gill Foundation
After a decade at the helm of the Gill Foundation, Brad has announced his departure this spring, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy and impact. Under his leadership, the foundation championed LGBTQ rights, from laying the groundwork for the Respect for Marriage Act to securing federal protections for trans healthcare and LGBTQ youth. Read more here.
Well, that’s it for this week. Sorry for the 2-hour delay; I blame the Association’s new CRM system. I am trying to learn to stay sane while “living in the time of Nero,” as some Canadian columnist Andrew Coyne wrote in November. I need to curtail my doomscrolling (instead, I subscribed to this LGBTQ+ legislation alert system) but also get more in touch with the arts - an area where even Trumpers intuitively know LGBTQ+ people still matter.
Thank you so much for all the work you put into these emails! I'm curious if you have thoughts on how to best use the info you share, ie pushing back on this hellscape?