Fabrice Houdart | A weekly newsletter on LGBTQ+ Equality
This week: Ghana setback, the rise of the gay conservative, the Vatican gay lobby, the Nasdaq repeal, remembering Troy Masters, Davos or Creating Change in January, the PinkNews drama, and much more….
From courtroom verdicts in Ghana to a newly crowned Queer Eye darling, this newsletter takes you from tragic to mundane, which will also be the title of my upcoming memoir. I cannot say LGBTQ+ people are ending the year on a high note, but history has proven that our community always does best in the face of great adversity. I am betting on our community rallying in 2025 while keeping a packed suitcase under my bed.
This week: Ghana setback, the rise of the gay conservative, the Vatican gay lobby, the Nasdaq repeal, remembering Troy Masters, Davos or Creating Change in January, the PinkNews drama, and much more….
Global News
Ghana: Supreme Court Upholds Controversial Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill
Ghana’s Supreme Court, led by Justice Lovelace Avril Johnson, dismissed petitions challenging the constitutionality of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. This proposed anti-LGBTQ+ law seeks to criminalize LGBTQ+ advocacy and impose penalties on those promoting or indirectly supporting gays. Advocates had argued the bill violated human rights and failed to meet constitutional quorum requirements during its passage in Parliament. The court still upheld the bill. Now, it is a thorn in the thigh of the newly elected President. Read more on BBC.
France: Guillaume Kasbarian and The Rise of the Gay Conservative
It’s not just about Scott Bessent; the gay conservative man is having a moment globally. It is a force to reckon with. We all knew that Attal’s Government was super gay, but Guillaume Kasbarian, part of the now defunct Barnier Government, represents a remarkable evolution in French conservative politics as an openly gay minister in a dusty Républicain corner. The article describes his quaint life in a quiet village near Chartres with his partner Antoine, splitting his days between monogamy and the Cathedral. Let’s see which gays the centrists, led by Bayrou, come up with. With a new government every few months in France, “Spot the Gay Minister” is the game that keeps giving.
Germany: the Equal Rights Coalition conference
The Equal Rights Coalition (ERC) Conference 2024, hosted by Germany and Mexico alongside civil society partners LSVD+ and Fundación Arcoiris, is taking place this week (December 17–18) at the German Federal Foreign Office in Berlin. Under the theme "Countering the Push-Back," the event gathers representatives from 45 member states and the ERC Civil Society Network to discuss strategize against the global backlash on LGBTQ+ rights. A declaration will be issued. See the program here.
Brazil: LGBTQ+ Political Wave
In recent elections, Brazil has had a historic surge in LGBTQ+ political leadership, representing intersections of marginalized identities—women, Black, and trans leaders. For a closer look, check out this 1-minute animation with Election Highlights spotlighting these groundbreaking election results, and explore the VoteLGBT website.
Kenya: Sentenced to 50 Years for Murder of LGBTQ+ Activist
Kenyan photographer Jacktone Odhiambo has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for the murder of LGBTQ+ activist Edwin Chiloba in January 2023 (see my mention of the crime at the time). Judge Reuben Nyakundi described the crime as "diabolical" after evidence revealed Chiloba had been smothered to death and his body dumped in a metal box. Despite showing no remorse, Odhiambo broke down in court following the sentencing.
Vatican: Gossip And Grievances About the Gay Mafia
An anonymous Vatican employee has likened working in the Holy See to a “via crucis” (way of the cross, something you can now use in your holiday’s banter as in “navigating Aunt Karen's conspiracy theories turns our family dinner into a full-blown via crucis." ), accusing Pope Francis of favoring Spanish-speaking “progressive” cliques and in particular the “gay lobby” my friend Frederic Martel aptly described in his book ’In the Closet of the Vatican.’ The whistleblower’s gripes, published in Panorama, include dwindling wages, unaffordable housing, secretive finances, and a management style said to change “with the Pope’s humor,” which sounds like a job I once had. Read more here.
US News
Wisconsin: Pocan Rightfully Calls Out Transphobic Misinformation
In The Hill, Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) had every reason to lash out after Matt Gaetz and far-right figures baselessly claimed a Wisconsin school shooter was transgender. Pocan, chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus, slammed the ignorance fueling such lies, which not only deflects from real solutions like gun control but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes about transgender people.
Nadine Smith: A Wake-Up Call for Democrats
In a substack piece, activist Nadine Smith suggests we draw lessons from the cryptocurrency industry’s staggering $600M+ investment in the 2024 U.S. election. Crypto has become the new symbol of rebellion against a "rigged system," but its libertarian appeal has been weaponized to radicalize voters, amplify disinformation, and feed right-wing populism. Smith suggests that Democrats must stop misdiagnosing election outcomes as voter endorsement of cruelty or centrism and instead confront the systemic disillusionment fueling this trend. Nadine does not believe in culture war compromises.
Let’s talk about why Trump’s pitch resonates [...] It’s because he’s selling himself as the guy who will tear down a system people no longer believe in.
Raquel Willis Gives Up on Democrats
Following her protest against Republican-led bathroom bans I mentioned last week, trans activist Raquel Willis issued a stark warning in The Independent: trans people, she feels, can no longer rely on Democrats to protect their rights. Willis criticized the party’s "pattern of ignoring and sidelining the trans community." She urged trans individuals and allies to prepare for "radical defiance" to face an effort to "erase trans folks from public life."
Radical Optimism in U.S. v. Skrmetti
Despite widespread pessimism, NCLR Legal Director Shannon Minter is not sure the Supreme Court will uphold Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors in the Blade this week. Drawing parallels to the Court’s landmark 2020 Bostock decision, which recognized anti-trans discrimination as sex discrimination, Minter highlights the unpredictability of key conservative justices like Neil Gorsuch and Amy Coney Barrett. Minter remains optimistic that precedent, legal rigor, and public opposition to anti-trans policies could influence a favorable outcome.
Another Gay Joins the Fray
President-elect Trump’s appointment of gay tech executive Jacob Helberg as undersecretary of State for economic growth, energy, and the environment is another nod to the Palantir Caucus. A former Buttigieg supporter and Democratic donor, Helberg, like many rich gays, has pivoted to Trump’s camp.
The Gay Business
Grindr is a money-making machine.
Grindr’s projected 20% annual revenue growth through 2029 has impressed Goldman Sachs, which hails the dating app as a “revenue compounder” with expanding margins (see here). With 14.6 million active users, the platform leverages the growing LGBTQ+ market, transforming personal connections into profit. The commodification of human connection is limitless.
My Interview with Chief Influencer
Thanks to Anthony Shop for including me. Growing up gay in a heteronormative world is no small feat. I am constantly amazed at how impostor syndrome, shame, and self-doubt linger even among the most accomplished LGBTQ+ people. Yet, they also fuel our drive and empathy. On Spotify:
Queering the Boardroom
On the Nasdaq Diversity Rule Repeal
First, let’s be clear that this ruling does not change anything for us: the Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors remains committed to supporting LGBTQ+ people in the Boardroom. In a press release, the Association expressed disappointment with the Fifth Circuit Court's decision to repeal Nasdaq’s Board Diversity Rule, allowing us to track progress on the exchange. I mention, "Diverse boards are key to driving innovation and long-term growth,” reaffirming our commitment to advancing LGBTQ+ representation in boardrooms.
NACD Honorees Are Super Gay
On Monday night, I attended the NACD Directorship 100 Gala, where 8% of honorees (including yours truly) were LGBTQ+—a remarkable figure considering our community holds less than 1% of board seats. This wasn’t due to quotas or a concerted effort but because, when given opportunities, LGBTQ+ leaders excel. As the political winds shift and corporate commitments to board diversity waver, companies must stay true to their North Star. Congrats to honorees like Dr. Jesse Ehrenfeld, Liz Zale, Cathy Halligan, James Cole Jr., Matthew Fust, and Vanessa Pegueros prove that excellence takes many forms. LGBTQ+ diversity isn’t just right—it’s essential for boardroom success.
Semi cultural desk
PinkNews Drama: An Update
The founders of PinkNews, Benjamin Cohen and Anthony James, are facing allegations of sexual misconduct, including inappropriate behavior at work events, as detailed in a BBC documentary. The couple has finally denied the claims, calling them “false and malicious.”Read more on the BBC.
Air Mail: Monogamous Lesbians are the new Promiscuous Gay Men
I resumed my subscription to Air Mail this week: that’s what I do with your subscription money. 2025 will not only be the year of the “normal gay”: Air Mail lists “gay women,” “monogamy,” and “Korean bathhouses” as underhyped, while overhyped entries included “gay men,” “ethical non-monogamy,” and The Bear.
Soccer Still Has A Homophobia Problem
In France, the Ligue 1 match between PSG and Lyon was halted after anti-gay chants erupted from PSG fans, forcing captain Achraf Hakimi to plead with supporters to stop. This follows the controversial “captains’ rebellion” against wearing rainbow laces and jerseys in the UK a few weeks ago, with players claiming political neutrality. Are football's anti-discrimination efforts just for show? What is FIFA doing about it? it just confirmed Saudi Arabia as the host nation of the 2034 World Cup following an “uncontested bidding process.”
Park Ranger’s Extortion Scheme Shocks Houston
In a bizarre abuse of power, Houston park ranger Joey Lamar Ellis has been indicted on 20 counts of civil rights violations for allegedly targeting gay men in city parks. The indictment accuses Ellis of threatening his victims with arrest, demanding money, and even coercing some into sexual acts. Using his city-issued vehicle to trap victims and wielding his firearm for intimidation, Ellis reportedly orchestrated a twisted campaign of extortion. Read more in Metroweekly.
G&LR’s “Strange Fruit”
The Gay & Lesbian Review (G&LR) kicks off 2025 with Strange Fruit, an issue unpacking queer histories from Louis XIV’s courtly sodomites to the glittering Pansy Craze of the 1920s. Founded in 1994 by Richard Schneider Jr., this Boston-based publication bridges academia and highbrow LGBTQ+ culture (meaning Queer Eye is hopefully excluded).
The Queer Eye Shake-Up
Let me preface this by saying that I have never watched an episode, although I recently saw Jonathan Van Ness at a party and recognized him, to my great surprise. The Fab Five has a new face, and fans are swooning. Jeremiah Brent, dubbed “a beautiful breath of fresh air” (in the DailyMail), has joined Netflix’s Queer Eye, replacing Bobby Berk. While viewers adore Jeremiah's warm charm, Bobby hasn’t gone quietly. After unfollowing co-stars Tan France and Antoni Porowski, Berk accused Netflix of trying to “erase” him by removing his profile icon, fueling rumors of lingering tensions.
Coming and Going
Troy Masters, a Champion of LGBTQ+ Journalism
I am convinced that LGBTQ+ people constantly minimize what happened to them: the sheer number of suicides and overdoes I have to report confirms my hunch. Troy Masters, the trailblazing publisher of the Los Angeles Blade, tragically died by suicide last week at age 63. As a founding figure of both Gay City News in New York and the Los Angeles Blade, Masters dedicated his life to advancing queer visibility and equality through fearless journalism. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Karen Ocamb wrote a moving tribute in the Blade:
No one yet knows why Troy took his life. We may never know. But Troy and I often shared our deeply disturbing bouts with drowning depression.
Gabriel Attal: From Young Wolf to Pack Leader
Gabriel Attal did not disappear despite adversity. He is the leader of Renaissance, the presidential party. At just 34, Attal’s journey from young government spokesperson to Prime Minister and now to head of the party reflects a rapid rise fueled by political savvy and a meticulous understanding of the political landscape. You go, Gabby!
Grenell Got Something
After missing out on the secretary of state role, Richard Grenell has landed a new gig as President-elect Trump’s envoy for “special missions,” with a focus on geopolitical hotspots like Venezuela and North Korea. Now, if only Trump opened an embassy in Pyongyang and placed him there. In Fortune.
Love in Missoula: Zooey Zephyr and Erin Reed Tie the Knot
In NBC News, Montana lawmaker Zooey Zephyr and writer Erin Reed, two prominent transgender advocates, celebrated their wedding in Missoula, Montana. Reed promised Zephyr “a love that feels like home” while they danced to “You Can’t Hurry Love” by The Supremes. See Erin’s Post here.
Toni Atkins Eyes Historic Bid for California Governor
Toni Atkins, former Senate president pro tempore and the first lesbian speaker of the California Assembly, has launched her campaign to become California’s first LGBTQ+ governor. With the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund’s endorsement, Atkins stands out as a seasoned lawmaker who has shaped policies on climate change, affordable housing, and reproductive rights during her 30-year career. It’s a crowded primary. Read more in The Advocate.
The Gay Agenda
NOTHING
I am off to take the plane tonight to Hanoi for a two-week expedition in two of the most beautiful countries in Southeast Asia.
January 22-26: Creating Change Conference
I have never been, but I hear it is a thing. The 2025 Creating Change Conference, themed "Rooted in Resistance, Power & Love," will gather thousands of LGBTQ+ advocates (progressives, not conservative, now I have to differentiate) in Las Vegas from January 22–26. Registration closes on December 30, 2024.
January 20-24: Davos: Snow, Suits, and Sarah Kate Ellis
The World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting will take place in Davos from January 20 to 24 (did the two events not coordinate? Just kidding). It will bring together global leaders, innovators, and a healthy dose of self-congratulation. With LGBTQ+ visibility on the rise at the forum, we hope that Koppa’s plans for Ring the Bell 2025 and the Global LGBTQ+ Inclusive Finance Conference, planned for October 2025, will be the talk of the town.
October 7-9: Lesbians Who Tech New York Summit 2025
Mark your calendars for October 7–9, 2025, when 5,000 of the world’s most innovative leaders, including LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary pioneers, will convene for the 12th Annual New York Summit, described as a “SXSW meets Cannes Lion” gathering. Early bird tickets close on December 31! 🏳️🌈
Well, that’s it for this week. I am ending the year slightly battered. Two nights ago, I fought with my Roomba®, and we both lost. Yesterday, my motorcycle died on the West Side highway. I am calling it quits. I am getting one last lunch at the Century now and closing my computer afterward. Tạm biệt