Queer News

In this episode of Queer News, Anna breaks down one of the most significant legal wins for trans rights this year—a federal judge blocking Trump's ban on gender-affirming care for incarcerated trans folks. We remember Laura Schueler, a beloved Black trans woman murdered in Cincinnati, and we honor the 49 lives lost at Pulse Nightclub nine years ago. Plus, we celebrate the power of protest and performance: four drag queens crashing Trump's Kennedy Center return with defiance and dignity. Contributor Benjamin Coy takes us to the Native Son Gala, a night honoring the brilliance of Black gay and queer men. From the courts to the stage, from mourning to marching—this episode reminds us that resistance takes many forms and our stories will not be erased.

Family, this is your favorite queer radio personality Anna DeShawn, and this is Queer News — your favorite weekly news pod where race and sexuality meet politics, culture, and entertainment. This week's episode is unlike any other because I'm fresh off the plane from WorldPride Washington, DC 2025 and bringing you a special edition filled with the powerful voices, moments, and movements that made the week unforgettable. In this special recap, Anna shares firsthand reflections from the week that brought LGBTQIA+ activists, artists, and leaders together from across the globe. From the Human Rights Conference to the National Trans Visibility March and the International Rally+March on Washington for Freedom, hear voices from the frontlines—including Jasmine Tasaki, Raquel Willis, Chris Mosier, Marissa Miller, Brian Michael Smith, and so many more.

In this special episode of Queer News, Anna drops the script and speaks directly from the heart. As Pride Month begins amidst a wave of political attacks, rising hate crimes, and corporate retreat, Anna reflects on the importance of joy as resistance and why we must never stop telling our stories.  From celebrating her upcoming WorldPride panels in DC to spotlighting a heartbreaking hate crime in Illinois, this episode is raw, unfiltered, and full of fire. We also hear from contributor Jake Wittich of Windy City Times, who reports on a recent anti-LGBTQ hate crime in Illinois that's rocked the local community. If you're moved by the story, please consider donating to the survivor's GoFundMe — the link is in the show notes. This is not just news — this is truth-telling, soul-centering, and community care. Pod in, family. This one's for us.

In this week's episode of Queer News, we remember the legacy of Harvey Milk and the power of hope in the fight for liberation. We take you inside BET's Black & Iconic Soirée with a special report from contributor Benjamin Coy, get all the nostalgic tea on the 20-year comeback of Noah's Arc, and unpack the final chapter of the Jussie Smollett saga. Plus, Da Brat and Jessica Betts are teaming up for a musical duet just in time for Pride, and Chicago Sky legends Courtney Vandersloot and Allie Quigley celebrate the arrival of their first child. Oh—and don't forget, I'll be repping Queer News at WorldPride DC 2025 with panels, podcast activations, and my very first brand deal with Kirrin Finch. Let's get into it, family.   00:26 Welcome to Queer News   02:39 Leave a Queer News Tip, Email info at e3radio.fm or leave a message, https://www.speakpipe.com/msg/s/243669/19/rc6z5z67pp1op502   03:50 Queer News Headlines     04:43 BET's Black & Iconic Soirée Honors Black Queer Legacy  08:16 Noah's Arc Returns for 20-Year Anniversary Special   10:13 Support Queer News Coverage at World Pride 2025, https://bit.ly/WorldPride2025 & Meet us there, https://worldpridedc.org/   11:23 Jussie Smollett Saga Comes to a Close with Settlement   13:47 Your Mental Health Coverage Is Just As Important As Your Physical lth Coverage, https://getcovered.illinois.gov/resources/mental-health-parity.html   14:18 Da Brat & Jessica Betts Drop New Pride Anthem   15:45 Chicago Sky Legends Welcome Baby Girl   16:52 Anna's Got A Word    

This Memorial Day, Queer News with Anna DeShawn brings you a powerful one-on-one with activist, artist, and author Christopher Murphy. Christopher's breakout thriller The Other Side of the Mirror isn't just a page-turner—it's a bold reimagining of the thriller genre told through a Black queer lens. We talk about: ✍

Family, it's your favorite queer radio personality Anna DeShawn, and this week on Queer News, we're bringing you the stories that matter most to our community. From legal wins in Texas and Iowa to updates on Jazlynn Johnson's case, we're spotlighting courage, progress, and resilience. Plus, we're celebrating powerful moments in culture—from Scott Evans' Webby win to groundbreaking representation on MSNBC. Pod in, because this episode is full of truth, hope, and pride. 00:26 Welcome to Queer News   02:48 Leave a Queer News Tip, Email info at e3radio.fm or leave a message here https://www.speakpipe.com/msg/s/243669/19/rc6z5z67pp1op502 03:07 Join the QCrew, https://bit.ly/JoinQCrew   03:32 Queer News Headlines     04:08 Texas Takes a Stand: Repealing the Anti-Gay Law   05:42 Victory in Iowa: Blocking the “Don't Say Gay” Clone   08:30 Justice for Jazlynn Johnson: A Mother's Mission   11:41 Your Mental Health Coverage Is Just As Important As Your Physical Health Coverage, https://getcovered.illinois.gov/resources/mental-health-parity.html 12:50 Support Queer News Coverage at World Pride 2025, https://bit.ly/QNPWorldPride2025 & Meet us there, https://worldpridedc.org/ 13:23 Learn more about the Help Stop Hate Campaign, https://ilstophate.org 13:54 Scott Evans Wins a Webby: House Guest Gets Its Flowers   15:22 Windy City Times x Queer News: Media Collaboration in Action   19:55 History on MSNBC: Two Black Gay Men Anchor “The Weekend”   23:16 Sending Love to Big Freedia   23:54 Anna's Got A Word  

This week on Queer News, your favorite queer radio personality Anna DeShawn returns with our roundup of stories where race and sexuality meet politics, culture, and entertainment. From political updates in the fight for trans rights in the military to a detailed look at the fashions on the Met Gala red carpet by contributor Benjamin Coy. Queer News keeps you informed, grounded, and connected. Plus, we celebrate community, honor our elders, and spotlight the art that continues to shape queer identity across the globe. Pod in, family—let's get into it. 

Family, your favorite queer radio personality Anna DeShawn is back with another informative episode of Queer News — where race and sexuality meet politics, culture, and entertainment. This week, we celebrate a long-overdue win for trans service members in the military and Robert De Niro's beautiful public support for his trans daughter. We honor Jill Sobule's contribution to queer music and celebrate Doechii's major music milestone. If you need a word of encouragement this week, keep listening till you get to Anna's Word. Let's get into it.

Family, this week we honor the legacy of the incredible Coretta Scott King, a true trailblazer for Black and LGBTQ+ liberation. In politics, Colorado moves to permanently protect same-sex marriage, Minnesota takes a bold stand against Trump's attacks on trans youth, and George Santos faces the consequences of his deception. In culture and entertainment, BET announces a fabulous celebration for Black queer icons, we mourn the devastating loss of Jiggly Caliente, and Jennifer Beals gifts The L Word fans a gorgeous re-release of her photographic journal. Plus, we wrap up National Poetry Month with a moving poem by James Baldwin. Let's get into it! 

This week on Queer News with Anna DeShawn — we're talking legal wins and loses, representation on-screen, and unmatched excellence on the basketball court. A U.S. federal appeals court deals a blow to Trump's anti-trans military ban, affirming the right of our trans siblings to serve with pride. But across the pond, the UK Supreme Court drops a devastating ruling stripping trans people of legal recognition.  In culture, we lift up the groundbreaking TLC show Jay & Pamela — a love story breaking barriers around disability, queerness, and visibility. We mourn the cancellation of Clean Slate, Laverne Cox's bold sitcom, and celebrate WNBA icon Candace Parker as the LA Sparks announce her jersey retirement this Pride Month. And to close, we honor Black lesbian poet Pat Parker for Lesbian Visibility Week with her searing classic, my lover is a woman. This episode is a ride through pain, pride, power — and the poetry that keeps us grounded. Let's get into it, family.

Family, this week we're celebrating political wins in Colorado and Boise, shining a light on the Curve Foundation's Power List, and spotlighting NFL player Khalen Saunders for creating space in sports for LGBTQ athletes. From politics to pop culture, Anna brings the stories that matter to our community—amplified, unfiltered, and with plenty of heart. In Politics: Colorado Comes Through: The state House passes groundbreaking bills protecting gender-affirming care, shielding trans kids and their families, and recognizing abortion as a constitutional right. Boise Stands Tall: Despite Idaho's ban on flying non-governmental flags, Boise Mayor Lauren McLean affirms the city will keep flying the Pride flag. The best part? The bill has no enforcement mechanism. Sometimes resistance is as simple as staying the course. In Culture & Entertainment: Curve Power List Honors Anna: That's right — our very own Anna DeShawn made the 2025 Curve Power List! Shoutout to the Curve Foundation for recognizing LGBTQ+ women and nonbinary folks shaping culture and policy. What an honor to be listed among such icons. Chicago Tops Queer Travel Safety Index: Misterb&b names Chicago the #1 safest city for LGBTQ+ travelers in the U.S., beating out places like Seattle, San Francisco, and Honolulu. Come through, Chi-town! NFL Allyship in Action: Saints player Khalen Saunders is hosting a football camp for LGBTQ+ athletes in St. Louis, co-led by bisexual former Cowboy RK Russell. Saunders says being an ally means showing up — and he's doing just that. GLAAD Awards on Hulu: Don't forget to stream the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, now on Hulu. Let's celebrate those who tell our stories right.

This week, we're turning up the volume on resistance and resilience. From nationwide “Hands Off” protests to major political wins in Wisconsin and Montana, the people are making their voices heard. We also honor the lives of Linda Moran and Kaitoria “Kai” Bankz — two trans women taken too soon. In culture, I'll take you to AIDSWatch on Capitol Hill, celebrate TS Madison's game-changing Starter House, and gush over trans love in Survival of the Thickest. Let's get into it, family — because our stories matter. ✊

Family, Happy Trans Day of Visibility

In this episode, Anna & Amanda discuss the life and activism of Bobbie Lea Bennett, the first person with a disability ever to receive gender affirming surgery in the United States.   In this episode you'll discover:   ✅ Why Bobbie drove from San Diego to Washington D.C. to confront President Carter. ✅ What Bobbie did to celebrate her 1974 acceptance into a gender care clinic. ✅ Who referred to Bobbie as "Bionic Woman."   This is Queer History Done Right.    Undead Voice: https://undeadvoice.com More about Amanda & Yesterqueers   Yesterqueers founder Amanda W. Timpson (she/her) is an accidental public historian, a former television executive, and a Carrie Fisher-inspired sass factory who is passionate about exploring and celebrating the broad expanse of queer history. As the descendent of a long line of writers and raconteurs (and more than a few skilled bullshit artists), storytelling is part of Amanda's DNA. She believes that restorative storytelling is our most powerful tool for connection, understanding, and change. Follow her across social media @yesterqueers.   Learn more about Yesterqueers here, https://yesterqueers.com  

Family, it's your favorite queer radio personality, Anna DeShawn, and this is Queer News—your go-to source where race & sexuality meet politics, culture, and entertainment. This week, we celebrate a huge win as Boston declares itself a sanctuary city for trans and queer folks, setting a powerful precedent for protection and inclusion. But while some progress is made, we're also facing new threats—Trump's administration is considering devastating cuts to HIV prevention funding, putting lives at risk. Meanwhile, LGBTQ+ veterans discharged under Don't Ask, Don't Tell are finally getting long-overdue justice. And in culture and entertainment, Doechii is shaking up the charts, Patrik Ian Polk is set to bring a Black queer classic to the screen, and women's basketball is thriving like never before. You already know—this is an episode you don't want to miss. So let's get into it!  

In this episode, Anna & Amanda have a wide-ranging conversation about Jeanne Córdova and what lessons from her work are most relevant today. Born in Germany and raised in Los Angeles, Jeanne Córdova was the mother of the West Coast LGBTQ movement.   In this episode you'll discover: ✅ Why entering a convent helped her realize she was a lesbian ✅ How she became a millionaire ✅ What a lifetime of activism taught her about gender and identity   This is Queer History Done Right.  'When We Were Outlaws:' https://bookshop.org/a/86770/9781935226512 More about Amanda & Yesterqueers Yesterqueers founder Amanda W. Timpson (she/her) is an accidental public historian, a former television executive, and a Carrie Fisher-inspired sass factory who is passionate about exploring and celebrating the broad expanse of queer history. As the descendent of a long line of writers and raconteurs (and more than a few skilled bullshit artists), storytelling is part of Amanda's DNA. She believes that restorative storytelling is our most powerful tool for connection, understanding, and change. Follow her across social media @yesterqueers. Learn more about Yesterqueers here, https://yesterqueers.com

Family, welcome back to Queer News, where we break down the stories that matter to us—because our stories deserve to be heard.    This week, we honor Amyri Dior, a Black trans woman whose life was tragically cut short, and we refuse to let her story go untold. In politics, we celebrate comrades who are standing up for our community, from Kentucky's Governor Andy Beshear's continued support to Rep. Sarah McBride finally clapping back at those who refuse to respect her identity. Meanwhile, a new Gallup poll confirms what we've always known—we're not just surviving, we're thriving, with nearly 1 in 10 Americans identifying as LGBTQ+. In culture and entertainment, Chappell Roan gives country music a sapphic spin, and Diana Portillo wins a decade-long legal battle for trans workplace rights. Plus, we dive into the Unrivaled playoffs and how this league has set a new bar for women's basketball.    The Breakdown:  

In this episode, Anna & Amanda dive deep into the story of Gertrude 'Ma' Rainey, the Mother of the Blues. Born and raised in Alabama, she first took to the stage around the age of 12 and never looked back. Over the course of her nearly 40-year career Ma Rainey subverted every expectation with style and changed the face of American music. In this episode you'll discover: ✅ How Ma Rainey got her name ✅ Who once said that "after performing and working with Ma Rainey there was nowhere to go but to the Lord" ✅ Why Bessie Smith once had to bail Ma Rainey out of jail  This is Queer History Done Right.  The Brister English Project: https://bristerep.org/   More about Amanda & Yesterqueers Yesterqueers founder Amanda W. Timpson (she/her) is an accidental public historian, a former television executive, and a Carrie Fisher-inspired sass factory who is passionate about exploring and celebrating the broad expanse of queer history. As the descendent of a long line of writers and raconteurs (and more than a few skilled bullshit artists), storytelling is part of Amanda's DNA. She believes that restorative storytelling is our most powerful tool for connection, understanding, and change. Follow her across social media @yesterqueers.   Learn more about Yesterqueers here, https://yesterqueers.com  

Family, this week on Queer News, Sam Nordquist is our top story as prosecutors reveal horrifying new details and expand charges in his brutal murder case. In politics, Montana delivers an unexpected win for trans rights, with nearly half of the state's Republican lawmakers breaking ranks to defeat anti-trans bills. Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom raises eyebrows by aligning with far-right extremist Charlie Kirk on a trans sports issue—what was he thinking? In culture and entertainment, MSNBC makes history with a groundbreaking new show featuring Jonathan Capehart and Eugene Daniels, and WNBA legend Diana Taurasi announces her retirement after 20 seasons. Plus, a special queer book tip and an empowering word on resilience from Anna. Tap in, family—this is Queer News.  Top Stories:   ⚖️ Justice for Sam Nordquist - Shocking new details emerge as prosecutors file additional charges in his horrific murder case.

In this episode, Anna & Amanda uncover the untold story of Isabel Pell—Raised among New York's elite, she ditched high society, defied expectations, and ultimately joined the fight against the Nazis in France.This bold and rebellious queer woman defied expectations, loved who she wanted, and risked her life by joining the French Resistance during WWII.  In this episode you'll discover: ✅ How she was banished from NYC's elite for breaking all the rules ✅ The dramatic queer love affair that ended in a crash over the North Sea ✅ Why she risked it all to join the French Resistance in WWII LGBTQ stories must be told so history won't erase us!  This is Queer History Done Right. 

This week we're diving into some tough but necessary conversations. Iowa just became the first state to strip gender identity from its civil rights law, and the Pentagon is actively targeting trans service members, forcing them out of the military. But in the face of these attacks, we also have stories of resilience—like a major lawsuit challenging Trump's executive orders and my exciting new role as the newsletter coordinator for BLACKlines, keeping Black LGBTQ+ stories alive. Plus, we celebrate Black queer excellence at the Oscars and dive into a powerful queer women's history series. Let's get into it!  

This week on Queer News: We remember trans trailblazer Elisa Rae Shupe, her fight for recognition, and the heartbreaking circumstances of her passing. In politics, Maine's governor stands tall against Trump's anti-trans rhetoric. In culture and entertainment, we celebrate Raquel Willis, named one of Time's Women of the Year, and her powerful message to the trans community. Brittney Griner cancels a speaking engagement over a suspicious hotel message and Angel Reese dominates making Unrivaled history. ✨ This week's highlights:

From poetry to hip-hop, pain to purpose, 2AM Ricky has always known the power of words. In this episode, he sits down with Anna DeShawn to discuss his rise to fame, the losses that shaped him, and how faith fuels his music.

This week on Queer News, we honor the lives of Sam andTahiry, two Black trans individuals whose tragic deaths remind us why we must continue to speak their names and fight for justice. In politics, Lambda Legal secures a major win for gender-affirming care, while the people protest in NYC after transgender and queer identities are erased from the Stonewall Monument website. Plus, Darian Aaron from GLAAD brings us a special report on an upcoming conference supporting gay men who want to have children. And in entertainment, have you seen KWN & Kehlani's latest steamy music video? Let's get into it!

This week, we kick off Black History Month with some powerful words from Doechii and a reminder: You are exactly who you need to be.

This week on Queer News, Anna DeShawn dives into the first chaotic days of the 47th presidency and the real-life impacts on our community. Plus, we're recapping the Creating Change conference—a true queer refuge in these wild and wicked times. From politics to culture, we've got you covered.

Today's episode drops on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the same day Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th President of the United States. What a juxtaposition. We reflect on what this moment means for our communities and why the work we do matters now more than ever.

Anna DeShawn kicks off this episode with the fiery highlights of the year's first days and a heartfelt reflection on recent events that have shaped our community. From the staggering devastation of the LA fires to inspiring tales of resilience, this episode is a blend of activism, community, and laughter.

Welcome to Season 4! It's a new year, and Anna DeShawn is back to guide us through Queer News where race and sexuality meet politics, culture, and entertainment. While Anna takes time to reflect and recharge, we're revisiting a vital conversation with Mony Ruiz Velasco, Deputy Director of Equality Illinois. In this replay episode, Mony breaks down the actionable steps LGBTQ+ folks can take to safeguard their rights, families, and futures in an increasingly hostile environment. 

As we close out 2024, our host Anna DeShawn takes us on a reflective journey through a year filled with triumphs, challenges, and moments that defined our community. This episode revisits an impactful interview with Nico Lang, author of American Teenager: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era. Nico's work, highlighting the resilience and joy of trans youth, reminds us of the critical fight ahead: "None of us are free until all of us are free." This final episode of the year, is a heartfelt reflection, a call to action, and a reminder that together, we can navigate the challenges of 2025. 

This week on Queer News, Anna DeShawn wraps up the year with a mix of headlines and an exclusive interview you don't want to miss!

Join Anna DeShawn, your favorite queer radio personality, as she winds down to the end of the year with a few top queer news headlines and an exclusive interview with Jordan Alexander.  Jordan Alexander, the breakout star of HBO Max's Gossip Girl reboot, describes herself as an unrelenting artist, blazing her own path in music and entertainment! In this episode of Queer News with Anna DeShawn: Jordan reflects on her transformative role as Julien Calloway. The story behind her new album Now You're Caught Up, which captures personal growth, heartbreak, and resilience. Her journey as an independent, out, and proud queer artist. Why affirmations like "I am enough" keep her grounded in today's politically charged world.

Join Anna DeShawn, your favorite queer radio personality, for a power-packed episode of Queer News. This week, we dive into the Supreme Court case on trans healthcare bans—a historic moment for LGBTQ+ rights—with insights from ACLU attorney Chase Strangio and a look at the inspiring activism of Raquel Willis and Hope Giselle. Anna also celebrates the success of the Queer News merch line, shares a holiday gift-giving promo, and spotlights an inspiring interview with a trailblazing LGBTQ+ advocate and military service member, Isaiah Wilkins. Stay informed, empowered, and connected as we navigate the stories shaping our queer community. Don't miss it!

Join your favorite queer radio personality, Anna DeShawn, for this powerful Queer News World AIDS Day special. In this episode, we confront a critical yet under-discussed issue: the impact of HIV on Black women. Through heartfelt storytelling, historical context, and expert voices, Anna shines a light on systemic inequalities, cultural stigmas, and the resilience of Black women in the face of an epidemic.

This week on Queer News with Anna DeShawn reports on Quanesha “Cocoa” Shantel, a Black trans woman who was murdered in Greensboro, North Carolina. In politics, Representative elect Sarah McBride has been banned from the women's bathroom in the US Capitol. In culture & entertainment, Jussie Smollett's conviction has been overturned in Illinois, BlaqueOut Magazine releases an interactive map to remember our trans siblings and Khalid is outed by an ex-boyfriend.  

This week on Queer News with Anna DeShawn we remember trans pioneer Sir Lady Java. I'm still over this election. Can we start there? But there were a lot of wins by LGBTQ folks across the country so let's run those down. Nex Benedict's school district is found to have violated multiple Title IX violations. A group of fraternity bros decided to commit a hate crime, I'll tell you all about it, and let's talk about the LGBTQ folks nominated for Grammy's.  

This week on Queer News with Anna DeShawn she digs into the aftermath of Trump's shocking re-election and dissects its implications for the LGBTQ+ community. Anna is pleased to have Mony Ruiz Velasco, Deputy Director of Equality Illinois, join us as we explore practical steps to legally and personally protect ourselves and our loved ones. Don't miss this essential discussion on how to prepare, protect, and persist during challenging times.  

This week on Queer News with Anna DeShawn there is no bigger story than the presidential election taking place tomorrow. The stakes are high and so it our anxiety. Let's talk about it. In culture and entertainment, a teacher outs a trans student in the UK and gets banned, one of Matthew Shepard's murderers tries to get his sentence reduced, and we have a follow up to the hate crime that took place at Global Black Pride in Atlanta. They know who did it. Let's go!   

In this special episode join Anna DeShawn and special guest Amanda W. Timpson from Yesterqueers this LGBTQ History Month as they explore the fascinating and groundbreaking life of Hattie McDaniel. We know Hattie was the first Black woman to win an Oscar for her role in Gone With the Wind but what you probably didn't know was that she was bisexual. Tune in to her remarkable journey in old Hollywood and the untold stories of her journey. From her involvement in the secretive Sewing Circle to her friendships with influential figures and the challenges she faced in a segregated society. This video sheds light on the complexities and triumphs of an incredible woman who defied the odds and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and Black culture.   #LGBTQHistory #HattieMcDaniel #QueerHistory #HollywoodSecrets #BlackExcellence #BisexualIcons #Trailblazers #HiddenHistories #LGBTQIcons #FilmHistory #HollywoodLegends  

In this special episode join Anna Deshawn and special guest Amanda W. Timpson from Yesterqueers this LGBTQ History Month as they dive into the incredible story of Amelio Robles, the first openly transgender soldier in Mexican military history. Discover how Robles, a Colonel who fought under Zapata, transitioned in the early 20th century and was embraced by his comrades for embodying the epitome of a machismo soldier. In this video, learn how Amelio navigated post-war life, maintained his authentic identity, and left a lasting legacy that challenges conventional narratives around gender and history. Don't miss this powerful episode that not only honors Amelio Robles but also celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month. #AmelioRobles #LGBTQHistoryMonth #QueerHistory #HispanicHeritageMonth #TransPride #RevolutionaryHero #AnnaDeshawn #AmandaTheHistorian   Follow Amanda for More LGBTQ History    Official Website - https://www.yesterqueers.com  TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@yesterqueers Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/yesterqueers/  YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@yesterqueers   

This week on Queer News, Anna DeShawn will report on the groundbreaking case of Dime Doe, a Black trans woman whose murder has sparked outrage and demands for justice. In politics, Anna will examine the transphobic comments made by Virginia Senate candidate Hung Cao and celebrate the progress made for LGBTQ+ veterans who were unfairly dismissed under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." And finally, we'll bring you uplifting stories from the world of culture and entertainment, including the rescue of a beloved queer bar and the incredible achievements of four queer individuals who received the MacArthur Genius Grant. Let's go! 

This week on Queer News, Anna DeShawn and her special guest Amanda W. Timpson, the queer public historian, delve into the complexities of Matthew Shepard's tragic story. They discuss the commonly known narrative of his death and unveil the deeper layers, including issues of drug culture, homophobia, and the misrepresented nuances of his life. This episode is part of a series celebrating LGBTQ History Month by uncovering the histories you didn't know you needed to know. We will cover the:    Known Story of Matthew Shepard  Nuances and Complexities  Role of Media and Misrepresentation  Intersecting Issues  Unheard Connections  Concluding Thoughts and Legacy Follow Amanda for More LGBTQ History    Official Website - https://www.yesterqueers.com  TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@yesterqueers Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/yesterqueers/  YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@yesterqueers   

This week on Queer News, Anna DeShawn sits down with award-winning journalist Nico Lange to discuss their book “American Teenager: How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in a Turbulent Era.” Listen in as Nico shares the powerful and diverse stories of trans and non-binary teens across the U.S., the intersections of identity, and the pressing political challenges they face. This episode is a must-listen for understanding the true spectrum of trans experiences in today's world.  In addition, Anna would be remiss if you didn't also report on a few Queer News headlines that you need to know about:  A groundbreaking win for trans rights: Diana Portillo, a Latina trans woman wins a major lawsuit against McDonald's for discrimination. The election is 28 days away: Anna talks about canvassing in Racine,Wisconsin for the Harris/Waltz ticket Honoring queer history: Chicago's iconic Warehouse is officially designated a landmark, celebrating the birthplace of house music. Transgender youth and their families: Discover the inspiring stories of trans teens navigating hate and finding joy in a turbulent era.  

This week on the Queer News podcast Anna DeShawn has updates on two top stories that impacted Savannah Ryan Williams in Minneapolis and the legend Cecilia Gentili in New York City. In politics, we are 35 days from election day. In culture and entertainment, Thailand makes LGBTQ history in Souteast Asia and Chicago installs progress flag crosswalks across the city. Anna was there and got to cover the story. Let's go!  

This week on the Queer News podcast Anna DeShawn shares her top stories, a 3 month update on Taylor Casey missing in the Bahamas and Queer News winning best LGBTQ podcast at the Black Podcasting Awards. In politics Kentucky bans conversion therapy and Biden makes history appointing the 12th LGBTQ+ judge. Then of course she has your election update as well. In culture & entertainment,  we got a queer news tip on the Lesbians Who Tech summit, Sasheer Zamata comes out, and the Will & Harper documentary drops this week on Netflix. Let's go!  

This week on the Queer News podcast Anna DeShawn reports on Redd, a Black transwoman who was murdered in Chicago. In politics, an Arizona court rules in favor of two trans girls who just want to play sports. In culture and entertainment, we remember the Chicago legend and global icon Chilli Pepper. The gender liberation movement held its first march in DC & lets talk the VMA's. Was it the queerest one ever? Let's go!  

This week on the Queer News podcast Anna DeShawn holds a moment of silence for those killed, injured, and impacted by the mass schooling shooting at the Apalachee High School in Georgia. In politics, life long generational Republicans are publicly denouncing Trump and voting for Kamala Harris. The Cheney's, The McCains. Let's talk about it. In culture and entertainment, Sade is dropping her first single in 6 years and it's dedicated to her trans son, award winning  Queer journalist and founder of Queer News Daily Nico Lang is dropping a book and the interwebs were hot with rumors about Da Brat & Judy. Let's go!  

This week on the Queer News podcast Anna DeShawn reports on the politics of the day. Who is leading the polls with 62 days to go? Is it Harris or is it Trump? She talks about it. In culture and entertainment, Anna covers the 5th annual Trans Visibility March, Global Black Pride and Chappell Roan taking heat for setting boundaries with fans. Let's go!  

This week on the Queer News podcast Anna DeShawn reports back to us about her experience covering the entire Democratic National Convention. She breaks down where the DNC hit and where it missed. In culture & entertainment, Lambda Legal secured a big victory in the HIV space, the LGBTQ news outlet PinkNews CEO is under fire & Big Freedia gets a key to the city of New Orleans. Let's go!   00:00 - Welcome to the Queer News podcast  1:55 - Leave a Queer News Tip, Email info at e3radio.fm or leave a message here https://www.speakpipe.com/msg/s/243669/19/rc6z5z67pp1op502 

This week on the Queer News podcast Anna DeShawn is in conversation with Taylor Casey's mom who everyone calls Mama C. Mama C. opens up about Taylor's disappearance, the toll it has taken on the family, and the urgent need for answers. Mama C. shares personal anecdotes about Taylor's vibrant life, the challenges they've faced in the investigation, and the steps you can take to help bring Taylor home. Please listen, share, and take an action to bring Taylor home.  Make a donation here - https://chuffed.org/project/findtaylorcasey Call Senator Dick Durbin - (312) 353-4952 Call Senator Tammy Duckworth - (312) 886-3506