Category: Community

Despite societal changes and growing acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, 18% of LGBTQ+ adults continue to avoid coming out. The reasons for this are complex and multifaceted, including fear of potential negative consequences, doubts about support from loved ones, and concerns about social stigma. In this analysis, we look at the key factors that influence the decision to remain closeted and how they impact the lives and emotional well-being of these individuals.

From Awareness to Revelation: The Reasons That Prevent 18% of LGBTQ+ Adults from Coming Out

Members of the LGBTQ+ community often come to terms with their identity at a young age, but not all of them are willing to share it with their loved ones. According to a new Gallup report, most LGBTQ+ adults came to terms with their sexual orientation or gender identity at an early age: 48% of respondents came to terms by age 14, and 72% by age 18, with the average age of understanding being 14.

Most LGBTQ+ adults came out to friends and family by age 22 (57%), and the vast majority did so by age 30 (71%). However, a significant number of people said they had never come out (18%), including a small proportion of gay and lesbian adults in the US (5%) and nearly a quarter of bisexual adults (23%).

“Americans, like citizens of other countries, have seen significant changes in their attitudes toward the LGBTQ+ community, including their perceptions of the morality of same-sex relationships and LGBTQ+ rights in the United States,” the report notes. While public opinion and attitudes toward this group have changed, this has not significantly affected the age at which LGBTQ+ Americans become aware of their identity, but it has had a significant impact on when they choose to disclose their identity to others.

Because gay and lesbian people (24%) are more likely to come out, they are twice as likely as bisexual people (12%) to report experiencing worse treatment or harassment in the past year compared to previous years. Overall, about one in four LGBTQ+ adults say they have experienced mistreatment or harassment “often” (5%) or “sometimes” (19%) because of their sexual orientation.

“Social change has not fully eradicated the discrimination that one in four LGBTQ+ adults have experienced in the past 12 months, with gays and lesbians particularly affected,” the report says.

Coming Out in Show Business and Sports: How Public Confessions Shape a New Understanding of LGBTQ+ Identity

In recent years, many famous musicians and athletes have come out and openly declared their sexual orientation or gender identity. These public confessions not only marked an important step in their personal lives, but also had a significant impact on societal norms and perceptions of the LGBTQ+ community.

Among the famous musicians who have come out are singer and actress Ella Mai, who has openly declared her bisexuality, and Billie Eilish, who has made public statements about her gender identity. These confessions have helped expand the understanding of how sexual orientation and gender identity can intersect in the lives of public figures.

There have also been many significant coming outs in sports. For example, openly gay footballer Jason Collier and tennis player Margaret Court have become iconic figures in promoting visibility and acceptance in sports. These coming outs have been important in promoting inclusivity and breaking down stereotypes in both music and sports.

Such steps by famous personalities contribute to greater acceptance by the LGBTQ+ community and help create a more open and supportive environment for everyone.

Elon Musk announced his intention to move SpaceX and X out of California due to a law prohibiting schools from requiring teachers to notify parents of a student’s gender identity change.

Musk moves SpaceX and X to Texas due to California law

On Tuesday, Musk announced he would move his companies’ headquarters to Texas after California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law prohibiting teachers from telling parents when a student requests the use of a different name or pronouns.

“This was the final straw,” Musk said on X. “Due to this law and many others that came before it that have impacted families and businesses, SpaceX will now move its global headquarters from Hawthorne, California to Starbase, Texas.” .

MUSK, who has an adult transgender daughter, noted that he previously warned Newsom: “Laws of this nature will force families and businesses to leave California to seek protection for their children.”

In a subsequent post, Musk announced that he would also be moving X (formerly Twitter) from San Francisco to Austin, expressing fatigue at “having to dodge gangs of violent drug addicts just to get in and out of a building.” Musk, the world’s richest man, has in recent years leaned toward Texas, which is attractive for its lack of corporate and income taxes and its conservative politics. In 2021, Musk moved Tesla’s main headquarters from Palo Alto, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, to Austin, Texas, and himself moved from California to Texas. Despite this, Tesla, the world’s most valuable car company, has maintained its “engineering headquarters” in California. Since becoming President X in 2022, Musk has increasingly been vocal about his political views, often criticizing policies and public figures he considers too left-wing or “woke.”

The evolution of rights: how transgender legislation shapes the future of society

Transgender legislation has a significant impact on society, generating widespread debate and having profound sociocultural and political implications. The main impacts of laws relating to transgender rights can be divided into several key areas.

First of all, such laws have an impact on the legal recognition and protection of gender identity. They define the rights of transgender people to have their gender reassigned on official documents and have access to medical gender reassignment procedures. This is important not only from the point of view of individual rights, but also to strengthen their social inclusion and protection against discrimination.

Secondly, transgender legislation affects the education system and medical institutions. It can regulate transgender children and adolescents’ access to certain services, including medical procedures and social programs. Controversial aspects of laws can cause conflicts between legislators, parents and educational institutions, affecting the educational and social environment.

The third aspect relates to economic impact. Laws that protect the rights of transgender people can help create a level playing field in the workplace and eliminate discrimination in the workplace. However, they can also generate negative reactions from the business community due to the potential additional costs of compliance.

Finally, transgender legislation has a cultural impact by shaping societal norms and values. It stimulates discussion of gender identity and the role of gender stereotypes in society. Such discussions can promote cultural change and the development of tolerance.

Transgender legislation is thus a key element of social and political change, having a significant impact on various aspects of society, from legal protection to cultural norms and economic relations.

The realm of beauty pageants has undergone notable transformations in recent times, with LGBTQ+ women winning titles and crowns to showcase their beauty, intelligence and strength. These achievements not only break stereotypes, but also open new horizons for the LGBT community. Bailey Ann Kennedy, a  contestant in American beauty pageants, became the inaugural transgender winner of the Miss Maryland title. Now, the wife of a military member will have the chance to vie for the Miss USA title.

Bailey Ann’s victory: a historic achievement and a step towards advancing LGBTQ+ interests

Marca highlights Bailey as the inaugural transgender woman to clinch a beauty pageant victory in her state, alongside being the premier Asian contender to achieve this feat.

Bailey Ann turned 31, although previously only models under 28 could participate in the competition. For the Cambodian-born winner, the crown not only represents personal success, but also a chance to advance the cause of the LGBTQ+ community.

“I believe that my victory will help open the doors and hearts of people to see the diversity of the LGBTQ+  community.  “I aspire to make a positive impact on society and strive to improve it,” stated the American.

This year, the Miss Universe organizing committee lifted the age restrictions for participants, giving more opportunities to women over 28 years of age. Her success is not only a personal achievement, but also an important step towards advancing the interests of the LGBTQ+ community. In 2019, Bailey Ann married a military man. They have two dogs and the couple travels frequently while being active in the community.

Beauty without borders: achievements of LGBTQ+  women in beauty pageants and their impact on society

Bailey Ann is not the only one who has achieved success in this field. In 2018, Angela Ponce became the first trans woman to compete in the Miss Universe pageant, representing Spain. Her participation caused a wide outcry and started important discussions about the rights of transgender people and their place in society. Ponce emphasized that her main goal is to show the world that trans women are just as worthy as all other women.

In 2019, Jazella Barbie Royal from the Philippines became the first trans woman to win the title of Miss International Queen. This competition, especially created for transgender women, also plays an important role in supporting and promoting the LGBTQ+  community. Royal’s victory was an important step in the recognition and respect of transgender women around the world.

These achievements of LGBTQ+  women in beauty pageants help break down prejudices and stereotypes that exist in society. They inspire many people to be themselves, fight for their rights and strive for their dreams, despite all the difficulties. These women demonstrate that beauty has no boundaries and that every person is worthy of respect and recognition.

According to a survey released by the European Union’s human rights agency on Tuesday, discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ) individuals in the EU has declined. However, there has been a troubling increase in physical and sexual attacks directed at this community compared to three years ago.

Research shows: Discrimination has decreased in the EU, but violence against LGBTQ+ people has increased

A report released by the On Tuesday, the EU Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) announced that an online survey carried out between June, July, and August 2023, involving over 100,000 individuals who identified as LGBTIQ, showed few variances compared to a prior similar study conducted three years prior.More LGBTIQ people in Europe are now speaking openly about their identity. However, they face increased levels of violence, harassment and discrimination compared to the past,” the Vienna

In a statement regarding the report, the FRA commented. The adjusted data, which allows comparisons between different surveys, shows an increase in the number of

individuals hailing from the 27 member states of the EU who showed that they had experienced physical or sexual assaults over the past five years because of their LGBTIQ identity. The share of such cases increased from 11% according to the previous survey to 14%.

The lowest rates in the EU are recorded in Bulgaria (18%) and Latvia (17%), with the highest number of incidents reported among intersex and transgender people.

In the year preceding the in the most recent survey, around 36% of respondents across the EU reported experiencing discrimination in various aspects of their lives due to their LGBTIQ identity. This percentage reflects a decrease from 42% in the previous survey.  Bulgaria and Cyprus showed the highest levels, both countries with 48%. Among those most feeling discriminated against were intersex people (61%) and transgender people (54%), which were the only categories where the proportion of such responses exceeded 50%.

Reported areas where discrimination occurred include labor, education, health care, interactions with government agencies, and service in Stores, restaurants, bars , and nightlife establishments. The survey also included European Union aspirants such as Albania, North Macedonia, and Serbia. “Open individuals within the LGBTIQ community expression in Europe should not be difficult. While there are some signs of improvement, bullying, harassment and violence continue to be serious problems”-FRA Director Sirpa Rautio noted in her statement

LGBT discrimination in Europe: legal issues and social consequences

In Europe, the LGBT community faces various forms of discrimination at different levels of society. One of the most common problems is the lack of legal protection and recognition of same-sex marriages in many countries. Some states still have laws that prohibit or restrict the rights of the LGBT community, resulting in exclusion from both social and legal spheres.

Prejudice can also occur at the employment level, where individuals within the LGBT community might encounter job denials or poor working conditions because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Harassment and violence can also occur in schools and public places for these same reasons.

In addition, individuals in the LGBT community may encounter  negative attitudes from family, friends and society at large, leading to social isolation and psychological problems.

Despite the significant efforts of many human rights organizations and states, combating discrimination against the LGBT community in Europe remains an important task that requires further efforts and changes in legislation and public consciousness.

Many celebrities face situations where their children decide to change their name, sex or gender. This phenomenon generates interest and reflection in society about the themes of self-expression and identity.

Stars whose children changed their name, sex or gender: their stories

The daughter of actor Ben Affleck and actress Jennifer Garner, formerly known as Seraphina Rose, first publicly introduced herself under her new name Finn at a memorial service for her grandfather. She’s just one of many celebrities whose children are searching for their own identity. Now there are several stories of famous personalities who are proud of their children and always support them with a reliable parental shoulder.

Jennifer Lopez

Singer Jennifer Lopez’s daughter, Emmy Maribel Muñiz, 15, uses gender-neutral pronouns. Her mother is married to Ben Affleck. The search for her own gender identity contributed to the strengthening of the closeness between this girl and her half-sister.

Almost two years ago, at her concert, J.Lo publicly came out as a non-binary person to her daughter. She referred to her child as “they,” calling them her favorite duet partner.

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt

Despite regular scandals and conflicts, both celebrities remain exemplary parents for their daughter Shiloh. In 2008, the baby first stated that he considered himself a boy and asked to be addressed as John. Ten years ago, the media began to spread rumors about Shiloh’s possible transgender transition, and her parents supported her decision. However, starting in 2020, the teenager is periodically seen in a female form, causing interest and questions among the public.

Cher

The 17-year-old eldest daughter of singer Charity Bono openly announced her lesbian orientation for the first time. Over time, Chaz Bono has become an important voice in the transgender cause. The mother was initially shocked by this confession, but then became one of the most active supporters of the LGBT community. Although it was not easy for Cher to make the decision to support her child in his journey, she consciously chose this path.

“Chaz just radiates happiness, and I don’t understand the problems of other people. They are just scared and don’t know how to react to it,” the star concluded.

David Tennant

The Doctor Who star has five children. In 2015, he and his wife Georgia welcomed a daughter, Doris, who identifies as non-binary. These spouses actively support the rights of the LGBT+ community and are a reliable support for their child. “Happy birthday, mom!” – Doris noted, expressing gratitude to her mother.

Charlize Theron

Charlize Theronin December 2019, emphasized the importance of using pronouns correctly while highlighting the status of her adopted daughter Jackson. It is known that the actress initially accepted the child as a boy, but later the situation changed. “My daughter’s story is her personal story, and in due time, if she wants, she will share it herself,” Charlize emphasized. In addition, Theron herself is actively involved in charitable work, defends LGBT rights and acts as an activist on HIV/AIDS issues.

Jamie Lee Curtis

A few years ago, Jamie Lee Curtis openly shared that her daughter Ruby, whom she shares with director Christopher Guest, identifies as transgender. “We watched with amazement and pride as our son grew into our daughter, Ruby,” she said. On her daughter’s birthday, the Oscar winner took the opportunity to not only praise her child, but also speak out in support of the transgender community as a whole. “Today is my trans daughter’s birthday. I am proud and grateful to be the mother of a trans child and express my support to all trans families across America who are being targeted by conservative lawmakers,” Jamie Lee Curtis said.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon Known for the TV series Sex and the City, she is married to education activist Christine Marinoni. In 1996, she gave birth to a daughter, Samantha Moses, with English professor Danny Moses. In 2018, she shared the news that her son Samuel Joseph Moses is transgender. She posted the information on social media to celebrate his graduation from the University of Chicago. “I’m proud of my son Samuel Joseph Moses (call him Seph) who received his college diploma this month,” she wrote. Sigourney Weaver, star of the Alien film series, revealed in December 2022 that her husband Jim Simpson and she are raising a child named Charlotte (Shar), who identifies as non-binary. This was when they were 32 years old. “I can’t believe they’ve been around for 12 years now. They’re actually non-binary and they’re teaching us so much,” the actress shared. There are actually many more such examples. Celebrities themselves often come out in public with a sense of identity, like actor Elliot Page and The Crown star Emma Corinne.

Evolution of personality in childhood: from physiology to character

Personality change in childhood is a continuous process that includes various aspects, ranging from physical changes to the formation of unique character traits and psychological characteristics.

On a physical level, children go through significant changes. They grow, their appearance changes, and new physiological needs arise. For example, during adolescence, associated with puberty, serious changes occur in the child’s body and psyche, which also affects his sense of self and perception of the world around him.

However, personality changes in children are not limited to just physical aspects. They also actively develop their social skills; communication with people around them helps them from their worldview, values ​​and behavioral patterns. For example, in kindergarten or school, children learn to interact with others, build relationships, and learn to resolve conflicts.

An important aspect of personality change in childhood is character formation. Children begin to show their individual traits, such as perseverance, tolerance, honesty and responsibility. These traits develop under the influence of upbringing, training and life experiences.

In addition, psychological development plays an important role in shaping a child’s personality. They begin to understand their emotions, learn to control them, develop empathy and the ability to connect emotionally with other people.

Thus, personality change in childhood is a complex and multifaceted process that includes physical, social, characterological and psychological aspects. This period plays a key role in the formation of a person’s personality and determines his further development and attitude towards life.

An English football club’s decision to sign Richard Kone, a gay player, was a high-profile event that sparked conversations about inclusion and acceptance in the world of sport.Only a few years ago, Richard Kone was forced to leave his home after his family kicked him out for his homosexuality.

Career breakthrough: Richard Kone signed Wycombe Wanderers after difficult tests

Wycombe Wanderers Football Club from England have acquired a player with an amazing story. According to the club’s press service, the Blues have added 20-year-old Richard Kone from Ivory Coast to the squad, who plays as a forward.

Richard moved to Wycombe Wanderers from the amateur team, for which he played for three years. His talent was spotted by Newham Athletic at the Homeless World Cup. Unfortunately, after Richard came out to his family about his homosexual orientation, he was kicked out of the house.

It should be noted that Richard had experience of auditioning for clubs such as Colchester United and one of the Premier League clubs, but was unable to get there. While playing at the amateur level in England, he managed to score more than a hundred goals.

Eliminating stereotypes: how the signing of Richard Kone changes sports culture

Kone’s signing opens a dialogue about the importance of creating equal opportunities for all participants in the sports industry, regardless of their sexual orientation. This move was a clear example of the fact that a player’s ability and professionalism are the key criteria for selection, and not his personal preferences.

Scientific research shows that acceptance and support of individuals with non-traditional sexual orientation helps improve their psychological and emotional well-being. This is especially important in the professional world, where environment and relationships can have a significant impact on a person’s performance and confidence.

Signing a player with a different sexual orientation also helps eliminate stereotypes and bias in sports culture. This signals change within the industry, emphasizing the need for training and education in a spirit of inclusion and respect.

The responsibility for inclusivity and acceptance lies not only with clubs, but with society as a whole. Support from fans, management, and sports officials plays a key role in creating a safe and friendly environment for all players, regardless of their personal characteristics.

The signing of Richard Cone is not only an important step towards acceptance and inclusion in sport, but also a shining example of how sports clubs can become agents of positive change in society. This is a call to create a world where everyone has equal opportunities and rights, regardless of their sexual orientation.