New HRC data: LGBTQ+ people are choosing visibility ahead of 2026 midterms
Even as more than half of LGBTQ+ adults (56 percent) say the current political climate makes them less likely to be open about who they are, LGBTQ+ people continue to build visibility and support for equality, according to new HRC Foundation data released ahead of National Coming Out Day on October 11. Most (85 percent)…
Voting rights advocates organize volunteers to track potential intimidation at the polls
As Donald Trump refuses to rule out taking extreme action in the midterm elections, voting rights advocates and civil rights leaders are bolstering their voter protection efforts in anticipation of possible federal interference. The focus by activists comes amid uncertainty among advocates and election officials over what Trump may do before, during and after Election…
‘The Q’ explores who tells our stories for LGBTQ+ History Month
When we talk about LGBTQ+ history, it’s easy to think about the names, protests, court cases and political victories that made it into history books. But what about everything else? The photographs somebody kept for decades. The flyer from a queer bar that no longer exists. An old Pride program. A newspaper. A box of…
‘TRANSform the Vote’ to help LGBTQ+ voters with ID needs
Charlotte voters in the LGBTQ+ community will have an opportunity Oct. 7 to learn about voter identification and voting rights at “TRANSform the Vote,” scheduled for the Arts Factory at 1545 W. Trade St. The event is being organized with participation from SONG Power, State of Emergency and (TRANS) parent Magazine. ABOUT VOTING North Carolina…
The Midterms: Voting in the Carolinas
The midterm elections are now just weeks away and LGBTQ+ organizations have chosen their political endorsements. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) PAC and Equality North Carolina Action Fund PAC (ENC) are supporting politicians that challenge MAGA Republicans and advocate for LGBTQ+ equality. NORTH CAROLINA On September 16, HRC PAC endorsed Democratic candidate Roy Cooper for…
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Supporting LGBTQ+ owned and LGBTQ+ affirming businesses is more than a consumer choice; it is a practical way to encourage economic opportunity, strengthen local communities and reward companies that embrace equality. LGBTQ+ owned businesses create jobs, provide essential services and contribute to local economies. Research published by the Center for LGBTQ Economic Advancement & Research…
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Qnotes Democracy: Your rights are on the docket (or Justice wears a robe, not a cape)
I wanted to be a lawyer. More specifically, I dreamed of being a judge. An intelligent, objective dispenser of justice. A superhero in a robe instead of a cape. I’d get the bad guys off the streets, protect the innocent and make sure justice was served. Simple, right? Then I married my first husband, who…
COMMUNITY
SC Equality hosts black tie casino night
It’s time to get your queer James Bond on! South Carolina Equality, the Palmetto State’s oldest LGBTQ+ advocacy organization, is hosting a black-tie recommended “Equality Royale” on the evening of Friday, October 9. This night of “cards, cocktails, and community” is a fundraising event with a message: “Don’t Gamble Your Rights Away.” LGBTQ+ rights are…
