We are taking a little more time to plan the next Qnotes Connect gathering so we can deliver an event that truly reflects the energy, creativity, and community spirit of our readers and supporters. Our next meet-up will now take place in early 2026, and we look forward to sharing the updated date and details soon.
Thank you for your enthusiasm for Qnotes Connect and for continuing to support trusted, independent LGBTQ+ journalism in the Carolinas. We cannot wait to gather with you in the new year for an evening of conversation, connection, and community storytelling.
Stay tuned for the announcement. We’re excited for what’s ahead!
recent headlines
Year in Review: 2025
In 2025 we saw a decided increase in disturbing and frightening activity aimed at our community. Despite warnings about a second Trump presidency armed with a MAGA guide book, few of us expected so much. Here’s our look back at the good, bad and ugly. JANUARY LGBTQ+ marriages surge before Trump inauguration day In a…
Carolina Conference on Queer Youth comes to Charlotte this month
The Carolina Conference on Queer Youth (CCQY) returns to Charlotte on Friday, Oct. 17 offering a full day of training, networking, and collaboration for adults who work with LGBTQ+ young people. The annual conference is dedicated to advancing the well-being and rights of LGBTQ+ youth in schools and community spaces across the region. It brings…
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From Queer Icon to MAGA Ally: Nicki Minaj’s Political Turn
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Trump admin agrees to drop anti-DEI criteria for stalled health research grants
The Trump administration will review frozen grants to universities without using its controversial standards that discouraged gender, race and sexual orientation initiatives and vaccine research. In a settlement agreement filed in Massachusetts federal court December 29, the National Institutes of Health and a group of Democratic attorneys general who challenged the new criteria for grant funding said…
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Why are so many people sick?
Respiratory illness season is here in North Carolina, and one virus is already spreading at a rapid pace. We spoke with Dr. David Weber, an infectious disease expert at the UNC School of Medicine, to break down which illnesses are circulating in North Carolina and how to stay protected this holiday season. Which respiratory illnesses…