Gay or Queer: an old debate revived
“I’m Gay, Not Queer. It Matters.” That was the June 30 title of a New York Times essay written by young, self-identified Christian author Matthew Vines. Vines, who became a darling of gay Christians in 2015 with the publication of his book, “God and the Gay Christian,” argued in his NYT piece that the rise…
Heading to Charlotte Pride? Here’s how to stay safe in the heat
Charlotte Pride weekend is finally here, and for many festivalgoers, that means hours spent…
Federal agency blocks Medicaid gender-affirming care coverage for youth
A new federal rule will end Medicaid coverage for gender-affirming hormone therapies and procedures…
The Velvet Pony hopes to build community in North Charleston
When The Velvet Pony opens its doors in North Charleston later this year, owner…
What is Democratic Socialism, and what are its roots?
When watching the news, it’s hard not to hear the words democratic socialism. To…
LGBTQ Destinations: your DC weekend
There is always something new to discover in Washington, D.C. This trip I found…
pride
Charlotte Pride looks toward community for 2026
The Queen City’s largest event – Charlotte Pride – is less than a month away. Like other Pride parades, the annual celebration is looking beyond corporate sponsorship for aid. “Our focus for 2026 is intentional optimization and community-centric value,” explains John Walton-Tate, the Charlotte Pride director of operations and finance.. “The layout and energy this…
pride
Charlotte Pride creates huge boost to city’s economy
Charlotte’s annual Pride festival and parade has evolved into one of the Queen City’s largest tourism events, generating major bank in economic activity while filling hotels, restaurants and businesses across Uptown. The event, which takes place August 15 –16, has grown from meager beginnings into a two-day celebration that attracts tens of thousands of visitors…
arts & culture
Full color finale: August events across the Carolinas
August is busy with events for LGBTQ+ communities across the Carolinas. Charlotte Pride returns with its annual festival and parade, while organizations throughout North and South Carolina continue celebrating the season with theater, concerts, drag performances, community fundraisers, networking events, sporting events and opportunities to give back. Whether you’re looking for a Pride celebration, a…
community
LGBTQ+ youth organizations and support in the Carolinas
Every LGBTQ+ young person deserves access to affirming spaces where they can find support, build community and be themselves. This guide highlights some of the organizations, community centers and PFLAG chapters serving LGBTQ+ youth and families in North and South Carolina. Whether you’re looking for a support group, mental health resources or family support, these…
Join the Qnotes Press Club
As Qnotes enters its 40th year, we are inviting readers to help carry this work forward. Qnotes is the only LGBTQ+ newsroom serving the Carolinas, and our reporting remains independent and community-centered because of reader support.
Joining or renewing the Qnotes Press Club helps sustain local LGBTQ+ journalism, amplify community voices, and preserve stories that might otherwise go untold.
A $40 gift in honor of 40 years is a simple way to support the next chapter of Qnotes. Monthly and annual options are also available.
Join the Press Club today and invest in the future of trusted, local LGBTQ+ journalism.
