🤗 The power of a mother's hug

Plus, Planet Fitness wrestles transphobia Hello, wonderful humans! I’m [Christopher Wiggins]( The Advocate’s senior national reporter, stepping in for Alex, who’s off enjoying a much-deserved vacation. 🌴 While he’s away, I’ve taken the liberty of diving deep into the treasure trove of stories that make our community vibrant, resilient, and endlessly fascinating. Today, we’ve got a lineup that’s as diverse as it is impactful. So, grab a comfy seat, perhaps a warm cup of coffee ☕, and join me on this journey. 📚 Inclusivity Takes the Lead in Washington: First up, [a groundbreaking move by Washington State]( They’re making history by incorporating [LGBTQ]( figures and moments into school curriculums. Imagine learning about the giants on whose shoulders we stand, like Harvey Milk and Marsha P. Johnson, in class. This initiative promises a future where education mirrors the diversity of life itself. 🌈📖 🗣️ Chasten Buttigieg’s Powerful Message: Chasten Buttigieg, in a poignant lecture at Michigan State University, [tackled the devastating impact of anti-LGBTQ+ bullying](. Sharing personal stories and the tragic narrative of Nex Benedict, he underscored the importance of compassion and advocacy in the fight for a safer world for LGBTQ+ youth. It’s a call to action for all of us to stand firm in the face of injustice. 💪❤️ 🤗 The Power of a Mother’s Hug: When a Free Mom Hugs volunteer was unjustly labeled a “groomer” by critics,[her response was nothing short of heroic](. Turning a baseless accusation into a profound statement on love and acceptance, she reminded us of the transformative power of understanding and support for LGBTQ+ kids. 🏳️🌈🤗 🏋️ Planet Fitness Flexes Its Inclusivity Muscles: In a display of commitment to their “Judgement Free Zone,” Planet Fitness took decisive action [against a member who invaded the privacy of a transgender woman](. Their stance is a reminder that spaces can and should be safe for everyone, regardless of gender identity. 🚫💪🏳️⚧️ But wait, there’s more! We’re also bringing you the latest in health, politics, and arts & entertainment. I hope you find these stories as moving and meaningful as I did. Until next time, let’s keep the conversation going, the support flowing, and our spirits high. 🌟 With warmth and solidarity, Christopher [Washington makes school curriculum more 'inclusive' by adding LGBTQ+ history]( [Chasten Buttigieg takes on anti-trans bullies during Michigan State University lecture]( ['Free Mom Hugs' volunteer labeled 'groomer' by hate group. Here's how she responded.]( [Planet Fitness bans member who photographed trans woman changing — and it's not sorry]( [Wisconsin middle school faces series of bomb threats after Libs of TikTok post]( [Unfilled prescriptions, missed checkups, loneliness: States' anti-LGBTQ+ moves affect health]( [Southern states push forward with bills ending legal recognition for trans people]( Look, queer trivia! Each week, The Advocate newsletter has a little bit of LGBTQ+ trivia. Today, you'll get the question. Thursday, you'll get a hint. And Saturday, you'll get the answer. This week’s question is: Which country was the first to legalize same-sex marriage, doing so in 2001? Reply to this email with the answer and you may get a shout-out in a future newsletter! What you should also be reading: - These two queer athletes dove head first into love and have never been happier (Pride) - [Drag Race & We're Here star Shangela hit with multiple new sexual assault allegations]( (Pride) - [Will & Grace star Eric McCormack defends straight actors playing gay]( - [Kit Connor & Joe Locke meeting up IRL has Heartstopper fans flipping out]( (Out) Do you know someone who would like to receive The Advocate newsletter? Share it with them! [Click to email a link to your friends]( Keep up with the latest LGBTQ+ news -- from politics to entertainment to opinions from queer voices. The Advocate is part of [equalpride]( a proudly LGBTQ-owned and operated media company that serves as a leading voice on equality with LGBTQ, women and people of color. Follow us [X]( [Facebook]( [Facebook]( Copyright © 2024 equalpride. All rights reserved. PO Box 241579, Los Angeles, CA 90024 [Privacy policy]( [Terms of use](