Ready for another news round up, ladies? We got you covered.
Angola Decriminalizes Same-Sex Relationships
A law decriminalizing same-sex relationships went into effect last week in Angola. The law overturned a colonial-era provision that was essentially a ban on homosexual relationships. The law itself was passed in January of 2019, but was not signed into law until November of last year. Additionally, the law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and imprisonment for up to two years for discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. Activist Jean-Luc Romero-Michel tweeted that the law was a “great step forward” in the fight against discrimination.
Say Goodbye to the Toasted Walnut
Philly’s only lesbian bar is closing, leaving only 14 lesbian bars in the United States. The owner, Denise Cohen, faced personal financial hardships due to poor health, but with the added financial burden of the pandemic, and landlords unwilling to negotiate, the bar will not be able to stay open. In November of last year, the Lesbian Bar Project raised over $100,000 to try to save lesbian-centered spaces. We’re sad to say goodbye to one more.
The Last of Us Adaptation Casts Its Stars
We’ve known for a while that HBO has been working on an adaptation of the popular video game. But up until now, who would portray Joel and Ellie had largely been fan speculation. Pedro Pascal will star as Joel and Bella Ramsey will be portraying Ellie. Pascal seems to be a perfect fit for the role. We all know he can pull off the brooding loner who accidentally adopts a child and becomes a dad in the process. If you teared up during the season finale of The Mandalorian, get your tissues ready for his portrayal of Joel. Meanwhile, Ramsey wowed audiences during her time on Game of Thrones. So we have high hopes that she’ll do justice to our favorite 14 year-old post apocalyptic baby lesbian.
Ashlyn Harris and Ali Krieger Adopt A Baby Girl
Remember the days when fans would analyze a blurry selfie to try and figure out if these two were dating? And now, they’re married, living together with their two dogs, and mothers to a baby girl. What a glow up. The couple made the announcement over Instagram while sharing a photo of their new daughter, Sloane Phillips. The announcement also included a heartfelt letter to the girl’s birth mother. We know they’re going to be amazing parents.
US President Biden Issues Memorandum on Advancing the Rights of LGBT Persons Around the World
The memorandum unequivocally states, “it shall be the policy of the United States to pursue an end to violence and discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.” It also directs all departments and agencies involved in diplomacy and foreign assistance to combat criminalization of and violence against same-sex relationships. Sure, it may seem like the bare minimum, but at least it’s something.
The CW Gives Early Renewals to Several Current Shows For Next Season
These shows include Batwoman, Nancy Drew, Riverdale, and Legends of Tomorrow. While no specific release dates have been announced, you can rest easy knowing a new season is coming.
Jenna Laurenzo Releases Title Song For Girl Night Stand: Chapter 2
The song, “The River” is featured in the trailer for the lesbian themed short. You might also know Laurenzo from the hit movie Lez Bomb. Oh did we forget to mention she wrote, starred in, and directed that movie? The power of lesbianism is limitless. Girl Night Stand: Chapter 2 updates the story to reflect the pandemic. A lonely woman reaches out to her ex-girlfriend. But when she’s invited to come over and hang out, naturally it gets a bit awkward. Are they willing to drop the mask for one another? Watch and find out!
Crys Matthews Releases New Single
In the mood for new music? Lesbian artist Crys Matthews new single “Call Them In” pays homage to “freedom riders or letter writers” who make the world a better place. The second single off her album Changemakers was inspired by the late John Lewis. “When John Lewis passed away,” Matthews said, “I wanted to write a song to honor his memory and his legacy.” So naturally, the single will be released on Lewis’ birthday, February 21st. The album is set to release later this spring.
Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual People Significantly More Likely To Suffer Poorer Mental Health
A study from the University College London, the University of East Anglia, and the University of London found LGB people were more likely to suffer poor mental health and struggle with misuse of alcohol and drugs. Well, I could’ve told you this for free. The research analyzed data from 2007 to 2014 and had a sample size of 10,433 people between the ages of 16 and 64. Discrimination and bully contributed to poorer mental health in gay and lesbian people. The homophobia never ends. But, the researchers are calling for the government to take action in ensuring equity in health and social services along with schools to create supportive environments for LGB students. “This is really important because it shows that, despite some changes in societal attitudes, people who are lesbian, gay and bisexual continue to experience poor mental health.” The researchers said.
Batwoman’s Javicia Leslie Stars in Netflix’s Always A Bridesmaid
The bisexual actress already made waves as the new Batwoman. And if you want to see more of her, check her out in the movie Always A Bridesmaid on Netflix. Leslie plays Corina, a woman who is, well, always the bridesmaid and never the bride. She wonders in love and marriage can really coexist as she re-enters the dating scene.
Lesbian Emcee Joei Redd Gives Us “So Much Sauce”
Can I get, uhh, extra sauce on that please? Emcee Joei Redd’s new single, “So Much Sauce” is a catchy little song that’s sure to get stuck in your head. Head on over to Spotify to listen to it now.
