Washington Blade, Volume 56, Issue 40, October 03, 2025

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Community Partners

WorldPride 2025 in D.C. may have come to a close, but Pride continues in the region with celebrations planned throughout October.

Guide to regional fall Pride celebrations

Winchester Pride is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley (901 Amherst St.) in Winchester, Va. King Molasses is the headliner for a packed schedule of drag performances. More than 40 vendors are slated to participate and there will be food trucks, garden tours, and book signings. A 21+ Pride Afterparty is planned that evening at 50/50 Taphouse (29 West Cork St., Winchester, Va.) with doors opening at 9 p.m. and the drag show starting at 10. Find more information at winchesterpride.com or on the Winchester Pride Facebook page The Upper Chesapeake Bay Pride Festival is scheduled

for Saturday, Oct. 4 from 1-6 p.m. at Concord Point Park (352 Commerce St.) in Havre de Grace, Md. For more information, visit the Upper Chesapeake Bay Pride Foundation website

Staunton Pride is slated for Saturday, Oct. 11 from 12-5 p.m. at the GHP Bandstand (600 Churchville Ave.) in Gypsy Hill Park in Staunton, Va. Find more information at stauntonpride.org or by visiting the Staunton Pride Facebook page

The Southwest Virginia Pride Fest is slated for Saturday, Oct. 11 from 12-7 p.m. at the Salem Civic Center (1001 Roanoke Blvd.) in Salem, Va. The event will feature vendors, food and beverages, drag performances and a family zone. For more information, visit swvapride.org

The annual southern Maryland Pride celebration, Pride SoMD, is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 12 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Lexington Manor Passive Park (Three Notch Rd.) in Lexington Park, Md. The theme this year is “Existence is Resistance.” For more information, visit pridesomd.com or the Pride SoMD Facebook page

HoCo Pride in Howard County is scheduled for Sunday,

Acclaimed disability rights advocate

Thomas Mangrum dies at 61

Lifelong D.C. resident also served as ‘cherished’ Capital Pride volunteer

By LOU CHIBBARO JR.

L. Thomas Magnum Jr., a lifelong D.C. resident, widely recognized and acclaimed advocate for people with disabilities, and LGBTQ rights activist involved in the city’s Capital Pride events, died Sept. 17 from complications related to stomach cancer. He was 61.

A statement released by Project ACTION!, a local disability advocacy organization for which Mangrum served for 15 years as co-president, says he worked for more than 20 years for the D.C.-based Maurice Electric Supply company before retiring in 2002 and devoting his efforts to disability-related projects and programs.

Phyliss Holton, an official with the D.C. organization Quality Trust For Individuals With Disabilities and a longtime friend of Mangrum, said as a person with a developmental disability Mangrum devoted his life to supporting others with all forums of disabilities. She said that due to a separate spinal condition, Mangrum was wheelchair bound for about 15 years prior to his passing.

Holton said Mangrum had a mild form of developmental disability, which the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes as “a group of conditions due to an impairment in physical, learning, language or behavior areas” that usually develops before a child is born during pregnancy.

Holton said Mangrum was an active member of Project ACTION! for 15 years prior to the 15 years he served as the organization’s co-president.

“He traveled nationally and presented at conferences, was featured on webinars and podcasts on a variety of topics related to self-advocacy, accessibility, equality, and more,” Holton told the Washington Blade in a statement.

“He shared his lived experience of being a Black man with a disability, and being gay, and how it impacted how he was treated in the community,” Holton said. “He was a strong advocate and co-facilitated trainings for independent advocacy organizations that Thomas supported and

was a key advocate in their advocacy work,” she said. Holton added, “He would answer a late request to train a group of attorneys, present at a meeting or testify before City Council or meet with an advocacy group to advance pending legislation that impacted people with disabilities.”

She said Mangrum also enjoyed participating in LGBTQ Pride events and last year traveled to the New York Pride events. According to Holton, he looked forward to participating in WorldPride 2025 events earlier this year in D.C. “but his illness prevented him from doing so.”

In a statement announcing Mangrum’s passing, Capital Pride Alliance, the group that organizes D.C.’s annual LGBTQ Pride events and served as the lead organizer of WorldPride 2025 in D.C., called Mangrum a “cherished volunteer” for D.C. Pride events.

June Crenshaw, the Capital Pride Alliance Deputy Director, said Mangrum served as a volunteer for D.C.’s LGBTQ Pride events “for many years” and was involved in many of the planning activities for WorldPride before his illness prevented him from participating in WorldPride earlier this year.

“He certainly in my interaction with him made me very aware of making sure that Capital Pride was thinking about accessibility always, and making sure that we had a welcoming, affirming accessible space for participants and staff with disabilities,” Crenshaw said.

In its statement on Mangrum’s career and accomplishments in life, Project ACTION! says he helped to advance the needs of people with disabilities through service on many boards and commissions. Among them were Lifeline Partnership, the D.C. Developmental Disabilities Council, the D.C. Center for Independent Living, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transportation Authority’s Accountability Advisory Committee, “and many more.”

“His leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment

Oct. 12 from 12-4 p.m. at Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods (10431 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, Md.). The family-friendly celebration will include vendor booths, performances, games and more. For more information, visit howardcountypride.org and register on Eventbrite Pride Franklin County is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 12 from 12-5 p.m. at Wilson College (1015 Philadelphia Ave.) in Chambersburg, Pa. For more information, visit pridefranklincounty.org

The 2025 Annapolis Pride Parade and Festival was rescheduled following inclement weather and will now take place on Saturday, Oct. 18. The parade begins at 10 a.m. at the corner of Bladen St. and Clavert St. The path of the parade continues along West St. and terminates at Park Pl. The festival runs from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. and will be at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts (801 Chase Street) and Bates Athletic Complex (935 Spa Rd.). There will be entertainment stages, food trucks and over 190 vendors, according the the Annapolis Pride website. For more information, visit annapolispride.org

to equity and inclusion made a lasting impact on all who had the privilege to know and work alongside him,” the statement says.

It adds, “Thomas showed us the power of perseverance, courage, and the importance of standing together. His spirit will continue to guide us and strengthen our community for generations to come.”

A funeral for Mangrum was scheduled for Oct. 9, at D.C.’s Westminster Presbyterian Church at 400 I Street, S.W., with a viewing at 10 a.m. followed by a program at 11 a.m. A burial was scheduled to take place that same day at Heritage Memorial Cemetery at 13472 Poplar Hill Road in Waldorf, Md.

Holton said in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Project ACTION! for a Celebration of Life and advocacy scholarship in Mangrum’s name. A date and location for the Celebration of Life for Mangrum was to be announced later, according to Project ACTION!

Nadeau announces she won’t seek re-election

D.C. Councilmember Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1) announced on Thursday, Sept. 25, that she will not seek reelection for a fourth term in office, opening the way for what political observers expect to be many candidates competing for her now open Council seat.

Gay Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Brian Footer, 41, is one of three Democrats who announced their candidacy for the Ward 1 Council seat prior to Nadeau’s decision not to run again.

The other announced candidates who will be running against Footer in the city’s June 16, 2026, Democratic primary are Terry Lynch, 66, a longtime Ward 1 and D.C. civic activist, and Aparna Raj, 33, a former chair of the D.C. chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America.

Political observers expect more candidates to formally enter the race in the coming weeks and months. The 2026 D.C. primary will be the city’s first election to take place under the newly implemented rank choice voting system that D.C. voters approved in a ballot initiative in the November 2024 election.

Both Lynch and Raj have expressed support for LGBTQ related issues.

Raj attended a Sept. 10 meeting organized jointly by the Capital Stonewall Democrats, D.C.’s largest local LGBTQ political group, and the Ward 1 Democrats, where she said she would be a committed LGBTQ community ally if elected to the Council.

Howard Garrett, the Capital Stonewall Democrats president, praised Nadeau for her longstanding support for the LGBTQ community.

“I also commend her for stepping aside and letting new leadership with new ideas come into play versus holding the seat for a very long time,” Garrett said. “And Capital Stonewall will be doing an endorsement process, and we will do whatever we can to support that candidate that is endorsed,” he said.

“I have always believed that these positions should not be lifetime appointments That those in leadership should cultivate others to carry on the work,” Nadeau said in a statement she released on Sept. 25. “It’s not easy to step away, especially at such a difficult time for our community and our country,” she said. “But I do believe that it is the right time for me, for my family, and for Ward 1.”

Nadeau said she would announce her support and endorsement of a “proud progressive Democrat” running in the 2026 Democratic primary, but she did not identify that candidate. Some have speculated that the candidate will be Ward 1 ANC commissioner Rashida Brown, who was expected to formally announce her candidacy soon.

If Footer were to win the Democratic primary and the November general election he would become the Council’s second openly gay member. Ward 5 Councilmember Zachary Parker (D) is currently the 13-member Council’s only gay member.

Footer is a three-term ANC commissioner who currently serves as chair of ANC 1E, which represents the city’s Howard University, Park View, and Pleasant Plains neighborhoods.

LOU CHIBBARO

Stonewall Sports DC unveils new organizational model

Stonewall Sports DC announced on Monday the implementation of a new citywide organizational model designed to enhance operational efficiency, broaden community impact, and expand program offerings for LGBTQIA+ athletes throughout the District, according to a release from the organization.

Under the revised structure, each sport will continue to maintain its own volunteer leadership and preserve its unique culture. A centralized board will now oversee strategic planning, financial stewardship, community partnerships, and cross-league programming to ensure alignment and consistent quality across all activities, according to the statement.

“Our leagues have flourished because of the dedication of our volunteers and participants,” said Stu Wales, president of Stonewall Sports DC. “This citywide model allows us to preserve the character of each sport while delivering coordinated, high- quality experiences across the District.”

This shift also gives Stonewall Sports DC the ability to broaden its programming.

“As we grow, we can bring in new sports and activities, meet people where they are, and open even more inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA+ athletes and allies across the District,” Virginie Adams, vice president of programs, added.

Comings & Goings

Victory Fund names two new vice presidents

By PETER ROSENSTEIN

The Comings & Goings column is about sharing the professional successes of our community. We want to recognize those landing new jobs, new clients for their business, joining boards of organizations and other achievements. Please share your successes with us at comingsandgoings@washblade.com.

Congratulations to Daniel Hernandez on his appointment as Vice President of Political Programming, Victory Fund; and to Ben Dotson on his appointment as Vice President of Development, Victory Fund. Dotson will also be working for the Victory Institute. Upon their appointment Evan Low, President & CEO of LGBTQ+ Victory Fund said, “Our movement faces a defining political landscape and this moment requires exceptional leadership to grow our political power- from city halls to the White House. Ben and Daniel both are the leaders to strengthen Victory Fund and position us to empower candidates in key political races across the country and fortify our organization to reach new heights.  I am energized by this new chapter in our history and look forward to what we will build together.”

Hernandez is an award-winning lawmaker, author, and steadfast advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. He served on the Sunnyside Unified School District Governing Board in Tucson,

where he worked to create safer, more inclusive environments for LGBTQ students. As a former legislator, and congressional candidate, he earned recognition for his unwavering commitment to advancing LGBTQ+ rights. He was a vocal advocate for anti-discrimination legislation, healthcare access, and policies that prioritized the well being of LGBTQ individuals, especially youth. His work as a lawmaker earned him several awards, underscoring his effectiveness and dedication in pushing for progressive change. As an author, he has written extensively on issues related to LGBTQ rights, social justice, and the need for intersectional advocacy in public policy. A longtime ally of the Victory Fund, Hernandez has been instrumental in supporting and mentoring LGBTQ leaders. On accepting the position Hernandez said, “Victory Fund has been part of my journey since 2011, when I first attended the candidate training as a young activist. Every step of my journey in public service has included the support of the Victory Fund. To now join as Vice President of Political Programming feels like a homecoming. I’m honored to join this incredible team and excited to help support and elect the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders who will shape our future.”

Dotson most recently worked at EMILYs List and has worked in campaigns, digital engagement, and political fundraising

Further, the model centralizes sponsorship and fundraising functions to maximize impact.

“By unifying these efforts, we are better positioned to secure larger partnerships, eliminate redundancies, and reinvest more resources directly into our leagues and community programs,” Anthony Ortman, director of sponsorships, added.

To celebrate the revised structure and the 15th anniversary of the organization, Stonewall Sports DC is hosting a gala on Oct. 18th at the JW Marriott. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. Ticket sales end on Oct. 10. FROM STAFF REPORTS

for more than 16 years. As the Vice President of Digital, he led the two most successful digital fundraising cycles in the organization’s history and built a supporter community of more than six million. He also served as an appointee in the Department of Energy under President Obama. Upon his appointment Dotson said, “I couldn’t be more excited to join the Victory Fund at this critical moment. Voters are searching for leaders with courage and vision, and Victory Fund candidates are answering that call in communities across the country. As someone who has benefited from the work of Victory Fund, I know firsthand the power of this work to change lives and shape our democracy.”

LGBTQ+ Victory Fund works to endorse and elect LGBTQ+ elected officials for local, state, and federal office.

Advocates warn of FBI plan to label trans Americans as ‘violent extremists’

Fears of reprisals against community as gov’t ramps up attacks

By JOE REBERKENNY | jreberkenny@washblade.com

The nation’s leading LGBTQ advocacy groups are sounding the alarm over reports that the FBI may soon classify transgender people as a threat group — a move advocates say would be unconstitutional, dangerous, and rooted in political retribution.

At a joint press briefing held over Zoom last week, the heads of the Human Rights Campaign, Transgender Law Center, Equality Federation, GLAAD, PFLAG, and the Southern Poverty Law Center condemned the possibility that the FBI, in coordination with the Heritage Foundation, is working to designate transgender people as “violent extremists.”

The warning comes after a story earlier this month by independent journalist Ken Klippenstein, who reported that two anonymous national security officials said the FBI is considering treating trans subjects as a subset of its new threat category. That classification — originally created under the Biden administration as “Anti-Authority and Anti-Government Violent Extremists” (AGAAVE) — was first applied to Jan. 6 rioters and other right-wing extremists.

After pardoning all of the Jan. 6 insurrectionists, the Trump administration shifted the FBI’s terminology, replacing AGAAVE with “Nihilistic Violent Extremists (NVEs),” or, in some cases, “Transgender Ideology-Inspired Violent Extremism (TIVE).” The possibility of such a label follows several high-profile media errors in which reporters incorrectly linked Charlie Kirk’s shooter to the transgender community, fueling anti-trans rhetoric on the far-right .

For more than an hour last Wednesday, LGBTQ leaders denounced the reported FBI proposal and warned of the consequences of targeting one of the country’s most vulnerable communities. They emphasized that such a move would represent a violation of basic human rights, further fuel misinformation, and give legitimacy to political attacks already directed at transgender people.

Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign, warned of the broader danger for the LGBTQ community if this happens.

“Americans can no longer count on the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, not when political violence runs rampant, not when political retribution goes unchecked, not when hate is being incited by our president.”

Robinson argued that claims of “Transgender Ideology-Inspired Violent Extremism” are not rooted in reality. For example, Gun Violence Archive Executive Director Mark Bryant has said that out of 5,000 mass shootings tracked by the archive, the number of trans or LGBTQ+ suspects is in “the single digit numbers.”

“Trans Americans are more likely to be the victim of a violent crime than a perpetrator of one… violence committed by trans Americans is a lie, a lie that only begets more violence.”

Shelby Chestnut of the Transgender Law Center warned that the federal government’s posture would escalate attacks on the community.

“Bullying communities and manufacturing chaos will never erase the truth that we are far more connected than divided,” Chestnut said. “In the coming days and weeks, you will see increased targeting of our organizations and our communities and mis and disinformation being weaponized at the highest level of government.”

Fran Hutchins of the Equality Federation described the move as a direct assault on trans people, echoing Chestnut’s points — but made it clear that this will not stop organizations supporting transgender people from continuing their work.

“This is a campaign that weaponizes fear and misinformation to isolate and harm our communities,” she said. “Let’s call it what it is. It’s political violence… We will not be erased.”

Sarah Kate Ellis, president of GLAAD, the LGBTQ media watchdog organization, urged the press not to fall into false equivalencies, reminding reporters that transgender people face the highest risk of violence, contrary to the narratives pushed by some MAGA Republicans.

“Trans people exist. They always existed, and they will continue to exist,” she said. “The truth is the real trans terrorism… is the terror experienced by trans people in this country.”

Ellis also emphasized that this is an issue of civil and human rights, not something abstract — with real consequences.

“Do not treat civil rights as a both sides issue.”

Brian Bond of PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) framed the FBI’s proposal as a betrayal of American values, calling it “un-American” and “despicable,” while warning that even if it doesn’t immediately affect everyone, it represents a slippery slope.

“Every child in their family, every family member, every neighbor, transgender or not, is affected.”

He added: “PFLAG parents… will not back down.”

Beth Littrell of the Southern Poverty Law Center underscored the constitutional implications of these potential actions, their consequences for other marginalized groups, and the role of the media in calling out the Trump administration’s tactics.

“The real threat is when the government targets a group of people and those who support them for unequal treatment based only on who they are or what they believe,” Littrell said. “It should go without saying, but I say it anyway, transgender children do not threaten anyone’s ability to safely live and thrive in our nation or anywhere else.”

“What is being reported is unconstitutional. What is happening is dangerous,” she added. “We have seen this playbook before… We fought alongside the communities then, we will continue to do so now.”

Advocates closed the call with a unified demand: that political leaders, the media, and the public reject any attempt to label transgender people as extremists and instead hold accountable those responsible for spreading violence and misinformation.

AI-driven therapy apps bring relief, concerns in addressing queer mental health

How bots are changing the therapeutic scene, for better and worse

By CLINTON ENGELBERGER

ChatGPT knows a lot about Jordan.

It knows about her complicated history with her ex-boyfriend, the steps she’s taken to achieve sobriety and the type of person she wants to be.

But for Jordan, who requested to be identified with a pseudonym to freely share personal information, talking to a bot isn’t a one-and-done solution to her problems –– it’s a way to supplement the support she receives from her therapist throughout the week.

“During a period of time where I was in denial about my alcoholism, I asked ChatGPT to list out the ways that I met the criteria for alcoholism and it really helped me,” Jordan said. “I used it like a diary… and I would ask it, ‘based on everything you know about me, am I an alcoholic? Am I an addict?’”

While little research has been done on the queer community’s relationship with AI-driven therapy platforms, progress toward addressing mental health barriers in the community through artificial intelligence hasn’t slowed down.

But no bot is perfect, and accessibility doesn’t always lead to precise solutions. Here’s how bots are changing the therapeutic scene, for better and worse.

How AI is used in therapy programs

Using artificial intelligence as a supplement –– or, in some cases, a replacement –– for therapy brings its own successes and challenges.

Chatbots use natural language processing to assess user input and provide answers. Bots adapt to the mood and tone of the user, trying its best to provide answers and suggestions that best meet the needs of the given prompt.

Though it helps people like Jordan work through issues, ChatGPT wasn’t created as a therapy tool. It’s a conversational platform that was designed with broad capabilities in mind. That’s where AI-driven therapy bots come in –– platforms such as TheraBot, Wysa and Woebot were specifically designed to achieve mental health goals using tools and methods grounded in research.

These AI platforms use methods championed by experts such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which helps individuals understand and evolve their negative thought patterns.

As chatbots become more technologically advanced, some experts see them as a path forward in tackling health barriers for marginalized communities.

Addressing mental health barriers

Components of chatbots, including their 24/7 availability, anonymity and their role as a “resource navigator” to evidence-based information, make them a useful tool for marginalized people seeking help, according to a 2023 study published by the Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR)

“Leveraging chatbots and generative conversational AI can help address some of the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ community, providing a safer, supportive, informed, nonjudgmental, internet-based environment where individuals can connect, seek guidance and empower themselves,” the study reads. While Jordan uses a chatbot not directly tailored to-

ward the LGBTQ community, she’s felt these positive effects firsthand.

Jordan was drawn to the anonymous and nonjudgmental nature of ChatGPT after her relationship ended with her ex-boyfriend. She said she struggled with limerence –– or obsessively thinking about someone romantically –– after the breakup, and would talk about him to “everyone that would listen.” Despite the good intentions of her friends and colleagues, Jordan said she began to feel like she needed another outlet to vent to.

“That caused a lot of conflict between me and the people that were close to me that were so tired of hearing about him,” Jordan said. “That was actually the thing that motivated me to start using ChatGPT.”

Once she worked her way through the breakup, Jordan said she used ChatGPT to assist with other aspects of her life, such as creating daily checklists that helped manage her ADHD.

Jordan pays $20 per month for ChatGPT Plus, a premium subscription that lets her customize the tone of the bot (Jordan prefers “cheerful and adaptive”) and allows the bot to retain previously discussed information to provide more personal answers.

Above all, using ChatGPT hasn’t impacted her relationship with her therapist. She said everything she talks to the bot about she brings to her therapist. Her therapist even recommended she use the bot to manage her symptoms in between sessions, and suggested she give it prompts that ask what healthy changes she could make in her life.

Jordan has made therapeutic progress with ChatGPT, even though it isn’t a direct therapeutic platform. The JMIR study noted that programming these conversational chatbots to provide results and advice tailored to the user’s needs can unlock meaningful conversations that could help someone in a time of need.

“Generative conversational AI can be programmed to provide accurate, evidence-based, culturally sensitive, tailored and relevant information based on users’ unique identities and needs,” the study reads. “This ensures that the guidance and resources offered are applicable to the experiences and challenges of the

LGBTQ community.”

The appeal is straightforward: address rising mental health demand by providing 24/7 support that’s affordable and accessible using similar methods implemented by human therapists.

The reality, however, is a bit more complex.

Challenges in AI therapy

Since AI gathers information from human input, it can be prone to bias and provide support that isn’t nuanced enough to fill the unique needs of marginalized people.

“AI algorithms can inadvertently perpetuate biases present in the data they are trained on,” the study reads. “If the training data contain biases, AI systems may reproduce discriminatory or harmful behaviors, exacerbating existing challenges faced by the LGBTQ community.”

While AI therapy platforms were created to address these issues, the JMIR study pointed out that there’s still room for human error or algorithmic bias and misinterpretation in its responses.

On the user’s end, developing a relationship with a chatbot could lead to over-reliance. The user may depend on the chatbot for support, and distance themselves from social and professional settings.

Jordan said she’s found herself over-relying on ChatGPT before, but is able to recognize when she takes it too far. Others, she said, might not be so lucky.

“It can be dangerous, because sometimes I’ve gotten into spirals and it’s not going to tell me to stop. I can keep going as long as I want,” Jordan said. “So something that I think people need to be mindful of is how much time they’re spending on it, because it can just tell you what you want to hear, and it can be really seductive and addicting.”

Programming a better future

AI isn’t going away anytime soon, which some experts say accelerates the need for meaningful change in their systems.

As demand for mental health support rises, studies show it’s critical for AI systems to provide accurate and nuanced care for users.

The solution extends beyond accuracy, however. Although AI-driven therapy platforms have become more financially accessible, the JMIR study warns that LGBTQ people with limited access to technology or digital literacy “might be left behind in terms of benefiting from positive AI impacts.”

In order to create a more accessible and beneficial future for users of AI therapy programs, change needs to happen from the developers themselves, the JMIR study noted.

“Every single line and bit of code, every algorithm and every data set used in AI systems must be scrutinized for biases and prejudices, and developers and policy makers should strive for a standard of AI that champions fairness and equality,” the study reads. “The lived experiences and perspectives of members of the LGBTQ community are invaluable in ensuring that these technologies truly reflect their needs and aspirations.”

D.C. celebrates 2025 WorldPride ‘Impact Report’

Speakers say summer events had impact greater than economics

By LOU CHIBBARO JR. | lchibbaro@washblade.com

Close to 400 people turned out Tuesday night, Sept. 30, at D.C.’s Walter Washington Convention Center for a WorldPride D.C. “Wrap Up” celebration in which a long-awaited WorldPride Washington, D.C. 2025 Impact Report was officially released.

At least nine speakers, including D.C. Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development Nina Albert and Capital Pride Alliance Director Ryan Bos, pointed to the 80-page report’s detailed analysis claiming that the 23-day D.C. WorldPride’s  hundreds of events had an overall impact far greater than an economic impact.

The report includes information previously released by Destination D.C., the nonprofit organization that promotes D.C. tourism and special events and which played a leading role in promoting D.C. WorldPride, that the international event attracted at least 1.2 million visitors to D.C. and had an economic impact of $310 million.

The report says D.C. hosted at least 400 WorldPride events “in all corners of the United States capital.” It states, “Envisioned as a celebration of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, plus (LGBTQ+) progress and joy, the moment arrived when the community’s rights and freedoms were under renewed threats, transforming the celebration into a movement and making attendance an act of resistance.”

That theme was reiterated by nearly all of the speakers at the Sept. 30 event, including Bos and Japer Bowles, director of the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs, one of the organizers of the event.

In its analysis showing that the WorldPride D.C. impact went beyond economics, the report devotes 30 pages providing details and photos of many of the 400 WorldPride events, including D.C.’s record long WorldPride

Parade, Music Festival, Global Dance Party, Capital Cup Sports Festival, and International Choral Festival.

“This was an opportunity for us to come back together after a few months since we closed out the final event of this year’s WorldPride,” Bos told the Washington Blade “As we indicated tonight, we presented our Impact Report that talks about not just the economic impact but also social and educational impact that our community was able to have,” he said.

Among other things, the report breaks down the attendance figures to show how many attended some of the specific events. Among the 1.2 million total attend-

D.C.’s Bet Mishpachah to celebrate 50th anniversary on Oct. 25

Community invited to join gala celebrating ‘LGBTQ+ Jewish Pride’

By LOU CHIBBARO JR.

| lchibbaro@washblade.com

Bet Mishpachah, D.C.’s LGBTQ synagogue, has announced it will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its founding in 1975 at an Oct. 25 gala.

The event, which will take place at the Washington Hebrew Congregation’s gathering hall at 3935 Macomb St., N.W., will be a “sparkling evening filled with laughter, music, and honor as we celebrate five decades of community,”  a statement released by Bet Mishpachah says.

Among other things, it says the event will honor “visionary trailblazers,” including its Rabbi Emeritus Bob Saks and nationally acclaimed LGBTQ rights attorney Evan Wolfson, the founder of Freedom to Marry, the advocacy group credited with leading the successful campaign to legalize same-sex marriage.

“Since our founding in 1975, we have been a beacon of love, acceptance, and spiritual connection for LGBTQ+ Jews and allies in our nation’s capital and beyond,” a separate statement by the organization says. “Bet Mishpachah was born out of a need for a safe space where LGBTQ+ could come together, practice Judaism,

and embrace our identities,” it says.

“Founded by a small group of visionaries, we quickly grew into a diverse and thriving community that has supported hundreds of individuals and families over the years,” the statement says.

Joshua Maxey, Bet Mishpachah’s current executive director, said the LGBTQ synagogue has about 190 members and holds its weekly Friday evening Shabbat services at the Edlavitch D.C. Jewish Community Center at 1529 16th St., N.W.

“I would say it is a special milestone that we are celebrating our 50th anniversary,” Maxey told the Washington Blade. “This congregation was started by members of the LGBTQ Jewish community who did not feel comfortable, and may I dare say safe being in their respective communities and respective synagogues,” he said.

“So, they really had to step out, take a leap of faith, and start their own community,” Maxey said. “And here we are 50 years later. We are a thriving organization.”

He noted that in addition to this being its 50th anni-

ees, it says at least 35,000 marched in the parade, there were 350,000 “parade spectators,” 500,000+ attended the two-day street festival and concerts, and 60,000+ attended the Global Dance Party.

Bos said more than 700 volunteers provided more than 4,000 hours of service in support of the WorldPride events and organizing.

Although the report and those who spoke at the Impact Report event did not mention the Trump administration by name, they referred to a “political climate” creating growing threats to the rights of LGBTQ people, especially the transgender community.

LGBTQ activists both locally and internationally have said the hostility generated by the Trump administration was the major reason why far fewer people, especially those from other countries, attended WorldPride D.C.  than had initially been expected to attend. Early predictions indicated that up to 3 million visitors would attend the events.

“Against this backdrop, WorldPride D.C. became a powerful demonstration of defiance, solidarity, and courage and an opportunity for millions to gather, lift one another up, and be seen,” the report states.

Others who spoke at the event included Theresa Belpulsi, Destination D.C.’s Senior Vice President for Tourism, Sports, and Visitor Services; Marquia Pannell, Capital Pride Alliance’s Director of Marketing and Communication; Dee Tum-Monge, an official with the D.C. Latinx History Project; Kenya Hutton, CEO of the LGBTQ Center for Black Equity; and Mike Alexander, Capital Pride Alliance’s Development Director.

The WorldPride Washington, D.C. 2025 Impact Report can be accessed via Capital Pride’s website.

versary year, he and Bet Mishpachah members were proud and honored to have their synagogue prominently featured at D.C.’s Capital Jewish Museum in its special exhibit entitled LGBTQ Jews in the Federal City.

Bet Mishpachah spokesperson Nino McQuown said the anniversary gala is also serving as a fundraiser to help support its programs, services and events and members of the wider LGBTQ community and its allies are invited to attend the event.

Information about ticket availability for both potential sponsors and individuals can be accessed at Bet Mishpachah’s website.

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ZAR

is the monomynous founder and former creative director of Team Rayceen Productions. Zar led TRP for more than 10 years and has lived in the Capital region all of his life.

Domain unavailable: The Internet giveth and it taketh away  Tech billionaires can remove content, limit access, delete accounts

For many years, Team Rayceen Productions live streamed on Facebook. Those videos are now gone. Because of a policy change on that social media platform earlier this year, live stream videos more than 30 days old were deleted.

Unaware of any announcement, we did not discover the loss of those videos until recently. Those videos include series by Team Rayceen Productions such as An Audience with the Queen of the Shameless Plug and Monthly Mouth-Off, numerous interviews with special guests, as well as footage of The Ask Rayceen Show, our monthly gathering and variety program, which ran from 2012 to 2021. Much of what took hundreds of hours to create from 2020 through 2024 is now gone.

This loss of content and documentation seems not like a fluke but rather a harbinger of things to come. Also disappeared from the Internet are videos recorded by the National Park Service about the history of DC Black Pride, which included an interview with Rayceen Pendarvis; those interviews are no longer on their website. Our videos on the Team Rayceen YouTube channel remain available, but those, and anything else that is online, exists precariously, at best.

We are all far too reliant upon social media platforms and websites not only to access information, but to store it and preserve it. Photos and videos are posted, then often deleted from devices. Storage is limited. Certainly some people regularly save images on hard drives and in the cloud, but the amount of time and energy it would take to sift through years of files would make recovery arduous.

Many of us use social media and websites to document the present and preserve the past, but we are vulnerable to the whims of the people who run and own them, and who those people are changes often without our knowledge and always without our consent.

Twitter was purchased and ruined because of one man and his political agenda. He succeeded in destroying what was the closest thing we had to an online town square. He, along with his billionaire cronies and colleagues, control the flow of information (and misinformation) for a pivotal percentage of people in the United States. These media moguls manipulate perceptions that create people’s reality. They can shift public opinions. They can bestow fame and success. The can villainize and dehumanize. They can distort the truth. They have the ability to weaponize not only the news, but to weaponize us against each other.

Nobody is safe or exempt. The recent predicaments of late night hosts Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel demonstrate that. The ominous “they” now quite clearly includes the U.S. government, with a current administration that seems less ethical than the Mafia in its pursuit of creating a regime similar to North Korea, targeting, among many others, people who they think are not sufficiently mourning the death of a podcast host.

What happens when they decide to stop the flow of information? What happens when we are unable to communicate? If there were no ability to direct message or email, if we were unable to text message or call people, how would we communicate? How would we organize? How would we resist?

Under comparable circumstances, the people of Nepal resisted. They protested, burned buildings, and apprehended corrupt government officials. Afterwards, they cleaned debris from the streets and forced looters to return stolen property. None of that seems likely to happen in the United States, nor does the resistance seen in France, South Korea, or other countries where the government was forced by the citizenry to capitulate.

We are far too reliant upon websites and social media, owned and controlled by too few individuals, for our social, cultural, economic, and communal well being. They can act with impunity. They can impose shadow-bans. They control the algorithms. They can remove content, limit access, delete accounts, suppress information, misrepresent facts, and not only impose a future they want to bring to fruition, but rewrite history as they please.

There are no simple solutions, such as going completely analog or avoiding technology. Awareness is the first step. Do not be lulled into a false sense of security. Do not assume that what you post or upload will be available in perpetuity. Do not rely on websites to be maintained or social media accounts to be accessible. Do not think that the algorithm is benevolent.

I hope this essay was insightful. If you liked it, please share it and share it soon. There is no way of knowing for how long it will be available.

KEVIN

C. MARTIN, PLLC, is a local law firm specializing in estate planning. Learn more at kevinmartinlaw.com.

You can’t predict the future, but you can protect it

Estate planning brings peace of mind no matter your age

When most people hear “estate planning,” they think of gray hair and retirement accounts — documents drafted only when the finish line feels near. But that’s a dangerous misconception, especially in these uncertain times.

Estate planning is for anyone who wants control over their life, their family, and their legacy when everything else feels unpredictable. Whether you’re a young professional wondering what happens to your assets, a couple raising kids in an unstable world, or someone watching their nest egg fluctuate with every news cycle — you can’t control what happens in the world, but you can control what happens to the people and things you’ve worked so hard to protect. That’s not just estate planning. That’s planning for life.

Estate planning is important for all age and wealth brackets because vulnerability doesn’t discriminate. Young adults often don’t realize that once they turn 18, their parents no longer have automatic authority to make medical or financial decisions for them. A simple power of attorney or healthcare directive ensures someone they trust can step in during a crisis. For families raising children, guardianship provisions aren’t optional — they’re essential. Without them, a court decides who raises your children, potentially splitting siblings or placing them with relatives who don’t share your values. Couples, whether married or not, need clear planning to ensure their partner has legal rights if tragedy strikes.

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The process begins with understanding that effective planning starts early and evolves continuously. Life changes such as marriage, children, divorce, or even a new job should trigger a review. What made sense at 25 may be inadequate at 35. A comprehensive plan extends beyond a simple will. Most people need a power of attorney for financial decisions, a healthcare directive for medical choices, and often a trust to manage assets efficiently. Each tool serves a unique purpose in protecting your interests and those of your loved ones. One overlooked aspect involves naming beneficiaries carefully. Retirement accounts and life insurance policies pass directly to named beneficiaries regardless of what your will says. An outdated designation can override your carefully crafted estate plan, sending assets to an ex-spouse instead of your intended heirs.

Don’t let another year pass without taking action. Schedule a consultation with an estate planning attorney this month — even if you think you’re too young or don’t have enough assets to worry about. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved ones are protected is invaluable, and the cost of waiting could be devastating for those who depend on you most.

Ple as e D o n’t Eat Yo ur Chi ld r en, Pa rt 1

NicholasF. Benton

FALLSCHURCHNEWS-PRESS

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S cene s likethatattheope ning of“A ll Q uietonthe Wes te rn Fr ont,” the Wor ld WarIn ove l andf ilm w he rea teache rr allie s a cla ssr oom f ull of b oy s to en li st in the war,isbon e chillin g. Or, thely r icin Pink F loyd ’s ico n ic s on g,Comfor tably N umb , “W h en Iwasach ild ,I caug hta f leeti ng glimp se out of theco rne rof my ey e. I tu rn edtoloo k butit wasgo ne. I cannot p ut my fin ge ron it no w.Thech ild is grown, the dr eam i s g o ne .”

PETER ROSENSTEIN

is a longtime LGBTQ rights and Democratic Party activist. He writes regularly for the Blade.

Trump’s government shutdown is underway

Democrats fight for healthcare while president embarrasses the country

President Trump manages to reinforce how evil and disgusting he is each day. At the memorial service for Charlie Kirk, his widow did the Christian thing and forgave her husband’s killer, describing Kirk as someone who wanted to reach people and “did not hate his opponents.” Trump then offered the difference between them, saying, “I hate my opponents, and I don’t want the best for them.”

What is beyond comprehension is how any real Christian family would want their children to emulate this disgusting man. They are supporting a felon, who cheated on all three of his wives, is a liar, and grifter. By supporting him they are in essence saying to their children “this behavior is fine, and if you grow up this way, it is fine with us.” So sad.

Trump continued to show how vile he is in his speech to the United Nations. It was mostly a one-hour train of thought, and his thoughts are very scary. It was rambling nonsense, an embarrassment to the nation. He spewed lies from the beginning to the end. He peppered his remarks with constant sanctimonious BS, about how great people thought he was, and how great he thinks he is. By the time he finished, he managed to offend nearly everyone in the room. I kept hoping they would all walk out, which they did for Netanyahu. It clearly would have been appropriate as by the end he had attacked all of our allies telling them their countries were going to hell, and he constantly wavered in his train of thought on the Israeli/Gaza war, and the Russia/Ukraine war. His remarks had all the signs of a demented old man, who doesn’t remember from day-to-day, minute-to-minute, what he says.

Clearly in his separate meetings at the UN with French President Macron, and Ukraine President Zelenskyy, he kept changing his statements on the Russia/Ukraine war, giving credence to what most people accept as truth: “Putin has something on him, and threatens to use it.” There has to be a reason while every Republican in Congress, and so many others here at home, are kissing his ass, Trump seems to have his lips firmly attached to Putin’s ass.

As the felon moves from one stupid statement to another, it is the poor and middle class who are getting screwed. His rich friends are doing fine. Domestically so much of his craziness seems to be focused on keeping the Epstein files from coming out. There may be a vote in Congress shortly, as with Democrat Adelita Grijalva’s win in the special congressional election in Arizona, and her promise to sign the discharge petition, it could force a vote on whether to demand the papers be released.

Then the felon spews crap about Tylenol being a cause of autism, if taken by pregnant women, without any real proof. He couldn’t even pronounce “acetaminophen,” the ingredient in the drug. Many perceived it as just another attack on women’s health, and his way of grabbing another headline, no matter how dumb he sounded doing it.

While he focuses on this crap, people are paying more for rent, groceries, and home heating fuel. Things they need every day. Farmers in Nebraska and Iowa can’t sell their crops. China has cancelled billions of dollars’ worth of soybean purchases, and the crops that were bought through our programs at USAID, now all cancelled, remain here at home. Because of the harm created by what he named his “big beautiful bill,” he now wants to change its name. People are seeing what is in it and don’t like it. They realize their healthcare costs will go up, or they could even lose their healthcare entirely. Rural hospitals could close causing immense suffering. While the felon wants to change the name of the bill, he has not suggested he wants to change any of the awful things in it.

Democrats are standing fast on the budget bill extension, saying they want the money he took from healthcare put back into the budget. But Trump has said he would rather shut down the entire government, and fire more people, than do that. As of Oct. 1, the government is in a #Trumpshutdown. It is clear the felon is fine with taking healthcare away from millions of Americans. Only voting, and throwing out every Republican, at every level of government, will make a real difference if we want to take back our country.

‘American Teenager’: A nonbinary journalist’s pursuit of joy amid hate

Inside author Nico Lang’s odyssey to find trans teens who are thriving

By DAWN ENNIS

If you’ve ever marveled at how sometimes a rainbow appears after what seems like the darkest day and the wildest storm, then you’ll appreciate what it’s like at a time like this, to discover “American Teenager ” — an honest chronicle of diverse, complex, and completely real transgender and nonbinary youth, struggling to live their authentic lives all across America.

“I think the more that we can remind people that these kids are just kids, that they’re just people, the better off the world’s going to be,” author Nico Lang, told the Washington Blade.

Lang is an award-winning journalist, who was recently honored by NLGJA, The Association of LGBTQ Journalists, with the Al Neuharth Award. Lang, who is nonbinary themself, has been touring for nearly a year since the publication of the hard cover first edition, a 2025 Stonewall Book Award honoree.

Lang’s bestselling ethnography has now hit bookstores and online booksellers in paperback. And, they said, they are exhausted.

“In 12 days, it will be 12 whole months of being on the road, with tiny breaks every now and then,” Lang said. “I just got nine days off to be home with my husband. They felt very short. I’ve been to 110 stops so far, in 39 states and the District of Columbia. I plan to make it to all 50, but to be honest, I’m not sure when traveling will be over for me, when it feels like I will have done enough.”

Before the book tour, there was their odyssey across the country, spending days, sometimes weeks, with eight families who opened up to Lang about their challenges, their pain and also their joy. Lang spoke with the Blade in 2024 as well as last month about that journey, during which they also struggled.

“I was just completely living off what little savings I have, being really scrappy,” they said, pausing to reflect on what it took to write the book; not just the financial challenges, but emotional ones as well. “I don’t want to ever overemphasize my own struggle here, but being present with these families all the time, and doing that emotional labor and just, you know, being a human, around humans who are really struggling, was a lot.”

And the people they interviewed told Lang, that weight was plain to see.

an emphasis on what they call “the universality of the stories here.”

“It’s about their resilience. It’s about how they survive in the world,” they said. “But it’s also about them being kids and about them being humans.”

Each of Lang’s seven chapters introduces readers to a new family in a different city, focusing on eight individuals and their everyday lives. One centers on homeless trans siblings in Pensacola, Fla. — Augie, who is both nonbinary and neurodivergent, and Jack, as well as their mom.

“All of the families kept telling me, over and over again, ‘You sacrificed a lot for this. You really gave up your life for this.’ This wasn’t easy for me. This wasn’t easy for any of us.”

So why do it? Especially given that the most recent Gallup opinion poll, published in June, showed a slim majority of Americans believe changing one’s gender is “morally wrong.” The tide is high right now for the transgender community, especially families raising trans kids.

“A friend who is a civil rights attorney told me something recently that stuck with me: namely, that the movement for LGBTQ+ equality lost for years before we won anything,” said Lang. “Every court battle ended in defeat for decades until the tide started to turn slowly, and then quickly. Then, we became so used to winning that we always thought it would be that way. We’re finding out the hard way that that was never true, but it’s a reminder that tides can change. We can still fight to change them. That’s what this book is: the fight.”

And the fight is just beginning.

Lang told the Blade the book — subtitled “How Trans Kids Are Surviving Hate and Finding Joy in A Turbulent Era” — is aimed at countering narratives spread by opponents of gender affirming care and transgender inclusion in schools and sports, with

“Homelessness is such a part of the trans experience,” Lang said.

There’s also Wyatt of Sioux Falls, S.D., Rhydian in Birmingham, Ala., Mykah in Charleston, W.Va., Ruby in Houston, Clint in Chicago and Kylie in Torrance, Calif.

“More than anything, it’s just a book that centers the humanity of these kids,” said Lang. “It’s not always about them being trans. Sometimes it is, sometimes it isn’t. Sometimes it’s just us talking about, like, Kierkegaard on the balcony, you know? And there’s a universality there that, even if people have that kind of initial apprehension to the subject matter of a book like this, I hope that universality is able to sneak past that, and remind people, why these kids’ stories are important, and why their lives are important. I think that we can, when we put that humanity first and we remind people that these kids are just people, we can stop forcing our preconceptions onto them. We can just let them live their lives.”

After daily doses of negative mainstream media reports mentioning transgender people, Lang said their goal for the paperback is to provide positivity.

“I hope this book brings people optimism, that it brings people comfort, and that it gives others joy on hard days, of which we have collectively had many recently,” they told the Blade in an email Thursday.

“I struggle with those concepts myself,” wrote Lang. “Right now, I have really lost touch with hope. I sometimes say that ‘I hope to hope.’”

After this break with their husband, Lang vows to return to the road to resume promoting the book, right into the new year, and beyond.

“I’ve thought about traveling all the way through 2028, through the next election,” they said. “I don’t feel I did enough to try to stop the second Trump presidency. In regards to what could be coming next, I don’t want to make the same mistake again. I couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t put everything I had into that project.”

Looking back on the project that produced “American Teenager” — they said the title is borrowed from a song by Ethel Cain — it’s clear they put everything they had into the 304 pages, including the dedication.

“In our journalism,” Lang told the Blade, “we make connections beyond what general cisgender journalists do in terms of covering the stories.”

Lang’s dedication is to what they called, “lost souls,” like Terri Bruce, a trans man and South Dakota advocate, who died by suicide in 2018, and to HRC staffer Henry Berg-Brousseau, both of whom “gave their lives to us,” wrote Lang. And to Nex Benedict of Oklahoma, whose death after bullying made national headlines. And to Acey Morrison, a Native American killed in 2023 after meeting a man from a dating app, all of whom “deserved better,” they wrote.

“For me, the book is a record of the fact that we were here, we are here, and we will be here,” said Lang. “Trans people have always existed; they will always exist. Try as they might — and they will try very, very hard — they cannot will us out of being.”

COOKIES DC- WHERE CULTURE, CANNABIS, & COMMUNITY MEET

COOKIES, the world’s most popular cannabis brand - has planted its flag on U Street -

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Like music, cannabis transcends differences. It is one of the few things that bridge race, religion, politics, gender and sexuality.

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All products are lab tested, fully-legal, and locally sourced from licensed producers.

In DC, all cannabis is considered medicine, but no doctor’s visits are required.

CALENDAR |

By TINASHE CHINGARANDE

Friday, October 03

“Center Aging Friday Tea Time” will be at 2 p.m. in-person at the DC Center for the LGBT Community’s new location at 1827 Wiltberger St., NW. To RSVP, visit the DC Center’s website or email adam@thedccenter. org.

GoGayDC will host “First Friday LGBTQ+ Community Social” at 7 p.m. at Silver Diner Balston. This event is ideal for making new friends, professional networking, idea-sharing, and community building. This event is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

Saturday, October 04

GoGay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Community Brunch” at 12 p.m. at Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant. This fun weekly event brings the DMV area LGBTQ community, including allies, together for delicious food and conversation.  Attendance is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

LGBTQ People of Color Support Group will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This peer support group is an outlet for LGBTQ People of Color to come together and talk about anything affecting them in a space the strives to be safe and judgment free. There are all sorts of activities like watching movies, poetry events, storytelling, and just hanging out with others. For more information, visit thedccenter.org/poc or facebook.com/centerpoc.

Families Out Loud will host “Out Loud-Washington DC Drag Show Ft. RuPaul’s Drag Race Queens.” This will be an unforgettable evening of powerhouse Drag Race performances featuring Brooke Lynn Hytes, Silky Nutmeg Ganache, Icesis Couture, Detox and, D.C.’s very own, Cake Pop. Tickets start at $50 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.

Monday, October 06

“Center Aging Monday Coffee Klatch” will be at 10 a.m. on Zoom. This is a social hour for older LGBTQ+ adults. Guests are encouraged to bring a beverage of choice. For more details, email adam@thedccenter.org.

Tuesday, October 07

Universal Pride Meeting will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This group seeks to support, educate, empower, and create change for people with disabilities. For more details, email andyarias09@gmail.com.

Wednesday, October 08

Job Club will be at 6 p.m. on Zoom. This is a weekly job support program to help job entrants and seekers, including the long-term unemployed, improve self-confidence, motivation, resilience and productivity for effective job searches and networking — allowing participants to move away from being merely “applicants” toward being “candidates.” For more information, email centercareers@thedccenter.org or visit www.thedccenter.org/ careers.

GoGay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Activism at Women’s National Democratic Club” at 6 p.m. at The Whittemore House. Guests can join other activists at the WNDC for letter and postcard writing to get out the vote this fall in Virginia and other critical state races. Postcards will be written to women in rural VA and to members of Congress on Home Rule 101 in partnership with the D.C. Democrats Statehood Committee. There will be free pizza, cash bar, a fun raffle and camaraderie. More details are available on Eventbrite.

Thursday, October 09

The DC Center’s Fresh Produce Program will be held all day at the DC Center for the LGBT Community. To be fair with who is receiving boxes, the program is moving to a lottery system. No proof of residency or income is required. For more information, email supportdesk@ thedccenter.org or call 202-682-2245.

Virtual Yoga with Charles M. will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This is a free weekly class focusing on yoga, breath work, and meditation. For more details, visit the DC Center for the LGBT Community’s website.

Pitchers DC will host “Thirst Trap Thursday Drag Show” at 10 p.m. This is the ultimate drag experience hosted by the sensational Cake Pop and Venus Valhalla. Each week features four incredible queens, ranging from international “RuPaul’s Drag Race” stars to local legends. Admission is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

OUT & ABOUT

Festival to celebrate banned books

In celebration of Banned Books Week, the Banned Wagon will embark on its third-annual tour, stopping at libraries and bookstores across Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia — starting on Sunday, Oct. 5 at 1 p.m. at West End Neighborhood Library.

The Banned Wagon will feature a selection of 30 books that are being banned across the country and will distribute free copies to event attendees in each city. Within its tour, the wagon will be making a stop at the West End Neighborhood Library and Solid State Books in Washington, D.C.

Upcoming Performances

MASON ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE

Papermoon Puppet Theatre

Puno, Sewing Memories

Saturday, Oct. 4 at 2 and 7 p.m.

A spellbinding mixed media production that has traveled the globe

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago

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This Grammy-winning ensemble presents a colorful performance of Pan-American rhythms

‘The

Dragon’ a powerfully subversive play once banned in Russia

Relevantly set in immigrant detention center acted out by detainees

By PATRICK FOLLIARD

Weird and abusive, yet still inexplicably tolerated by the populace. That describes the titular ruler in “The Dragon,” the story of how a 400-year-old authoritarian regime endures, now running at Spooky Action Theater.

Originally written by Evgeny Shvarts in the 1940s, “The Dragon” has the feel of a fairytale yet it’s a powerfully subversive play written (and banned) in Stalinist Russia.

And now adapted by Jesse Rasmussen and Yura Kordonsky for Spooky’s new production, the reworked play is relevantly and disturbingly set in an immigrant detention center with the tale acted out by the detainees. Their reality mixes with the story.

The new work is staged by the company’s artistic director Elizabeth Dinkova and performed by a five-person cast (including immigrants from South America, Syria, and Bangladesh) in Spooky’s black box theater on 16th street in the Dupont Circle neighborhood.

Included among the players are Helen Hayes Award-winning actor Fran Tapia and talented actor Gabriel Alejandro, two residents of Columbia Heights, a diverse and currently heavily policed neighborhood in Northwest. While Tapia is working with a visa for those with extraordinary ability and Alejandro is a U.S. citizen, the vibe remains extremely worrying for much of the area’s population.

Tapia, who self describes as “Chilean, Latina, queer and a proud immigrant,” says “The Dragon” resonates

to her core: “Despite the stress, you keep going while everything around remains strange; you can’t be your authentic self. You’re thinking twice about what you’re saying and posting, and where and what time you go anywhere. Danger is there as much as we try to pretend it’s not.”

“The Dragon’s” actors are cast in multiple roles, Tapia plays Lancelot, the hero who comes to save the day; Sophia, a journalist who comes to report on detention center conditions; and a beautiful cat.

“As Lancelot, I’m a bit of an outsider. He’s used to fixing things and helping people in distress. In this town the people are unaware that they need help.”

And regarding real life, Tapia says, “Immigration has become topsy turvy. It’s not unusual to see people being detained in broad daylight. It’s not unusual to have five police cars parked on the corner in the afternoon. It makes us think about how people respond to authority and absurd behavior.”

Similarly, Alejandro plays multiple roles including Henry, the son of the mayor (played by Ryan Sellers) and Officer Luis, a guard in the detention center. “Luis is comparatively a nice guy,” Alejandro explains, “Yet, he accepts what’s bad about the regime he serves.”

As a Latino, Alejandro is exploring his identity through the play. “In my daily routine I’m more anxious. I present in a way that I could be a target for the government even

though I’m a U.S. citizen.”

What’s happening on the streets isn’t entirely alien to what’s happening in the play, he adds. “In the play, I have some power over people who look like me. I could be in the detention center, and that’s not altogether different from what’s going on in the real world.”

Alejandro who identifies as pansexual moved from his native Puerto Rico to D.C. six years ago. After acting in just one show the pandemic hit and work dried up. Next, he attended the Shakespeare Theatre’s MFA in Classical Acting program at George Washington University, and since graduating in 2023, he’s been consistently working as an actor, something he calls “a joy and privilege.”

And as pansexual, he has an openness to people, says Alejandro. “That’s how I approach my characters. I find a way to love them. Even if they’re bad guys, I find a way to figure them out. That’s what I do here.”

“The Dragon” is satirical, and funny. Still, we know what we’re referring to in the real world, which is very scary and painful. And yet, audiences are given permission to laugh without losing the gravity of the work.

The Dragon

Through Oct. 19 | Spooky Action Theater 1810 16th St., NW | $23-$43 | Spookyaction.org

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Intensive ‘Riefenstahl’ doc dives deep into a life of denial

German filmmaker spent decades trying to rehab her image

By JOHN PAUL KING

She was an exceptional woman of the early 20th century, an ambitious powerhouse with beauty, intelligence, and a bold creative vision, along with a determination for success that helped her become a pioneering female artist. She rose to prominence as a dancer, actress, photographer, and filmmaker who helped to define the aesthetic of an era, and reached the top of her profession in a male-controlled industry. Her career was relatively short, but her life was long enough to see her movies held up as cinema masterworks, studied by filmmakers and scholars for their blend of technical prowess and poetic vision, before eventually dying at the impressive age of 101 in 2003.

Yet today, you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone eager to celebrate her legacy with anything more than carefully calculated appreciation.

That’s because her name was Leni Riefenstahl, and her filmmaking career ended prematurely not in retirement, nor from illness, nor even because of some scandalous gossip-column tale of adultery or sexual deviance. It ended because she built it in Germany, collaborating with Hitler and hob-nobbing with a who’s-who of infamous Nazis while enthusiastically creating spectacular documentaries that implicitly promoted a romanticized vision of the Third Reich. Her celebrated films were tarnished at the end of the war, their artistic merit eclipsed by the circumstances under which she had made them, and she spent much of the rest of her life as a relative pariah.

Indeed, as the cinema buffs out there probably already know, her name became practically synonymous with the idea of an artist whose work cannot be separated from their “problematic” ethical choices or political views; and while she would resurface when her films found muted-but-sincere appreciation for a new generation of critics, participating in interviews or appearing on the occasional talk show, she would spend the rest of her long life trying desperately to rehabilitate her image and her reputation in the public eye. Yet however often she repeated her claims – that she had never believed in the ideals of the Nazi movement, that she was never aware of the atrocities that took place under Hitler’s

reign, that she had always only been motivated by “art” – most of the world seemed to never quite believe them.

Now, with an exceptionally comprehensive documentary from director Andes Veiel, Riefenstahl’s culpability in the Holocaust is up for examination again, and the timing couldn’t be any more perfect.

Granted unlimited access to Riefenstahl’s personal archives by her estate, Veiel draws deeply from the rich collection of imagery, writings, and artifacts contained there to assemble a measured and methodical portrait that is largely drawn from her own words and the pictographic record she chose to keep as part of her official legacy. Tracing her from her upbringing as the child of a stern authoritarian father and a mother who pushed her aggressively to succeed, it follows her rise in the German movie industry, where she gained fame as an actress before making her own first film as a director – “The Blue Light” (1932), a successful debut that caught the attention of Germany’s future führer, eventually leading to her first commission as a filmmaker for the Nazi government.

It goes on to examine the records of her associations with the Nazis during the wartime years, including an implied affair with Joseph Goebbels and an eventual marriage to a leading Wehrmacht officer, as well as a friendship with Nazi architect Albert Speers that would endure beyond his 20-year post-war prison sentence. Even more provocative, it explores her participation in the filming of location scenes for a propaganda film that used child inmates from a nearby concentration camp as extras – something that casts her claimed ignorance of the Nazi agenda in an even less convincing light.

It also utilizes the copious material that documents her lesser-known history after the war, during which she undertook the writing of her memoirs and returned – briefly – to the limelight with an extensive photographic study of the Nuba tribes of Sudan. But it’s her frustrated attempts to escape the stain of her past that provides the recurring theme for this portion of her life, punctuated by footage of her confrontations with interviewers, talk show

hosts, and documentarians who asked her the questions she didn’t want to answer. In these moments, we can witness her unfiltered; we take note of her imperious manner and her quick temper, of the vanity which shows through her demands over lighting and makeup, and of the tongue-slips that inadvertently offer a glimpse at something we suspect she’d rather we didn’t see. Veiel organizes all this information in a sort of kaleidoscopic narrative in which the various periods of his subject’s life bleed across and into each other, forming recognizable patterns which acknowledge and revel in her singular artistic vision, yet come to form an inescapably damning assessment of her long-held denials; though there’s no “smoking gun” that proves her unequivocally to be a liar, there are far too many of those “tongue-slips” to ignore. In the end, it leaves us with the inescapable conclusion that Leni Riefenstahl, whether she believed in the party agenda or not, was willing –at best – to overlook Hitler’s monstrous crimes against humanity for the sake of her own ambitions; even more, it suggests that the only thing she regretted afterward was the loss of her career and the stigma that was steeped upon her. In the end, it’s hard to avoid the conclusion that she, like so many Germans of the Nazi era, wanted to simply pretend they didn’t know what was happening, when they were tacitly condoning it every step of the way.

With its leisurely pace and its brooding, minimalistic score by Freya Arde, “Riefenstahl” weaves a hypnotic effect that makes its two-hour runtime drift by like a dream, but there’s a meticulous logic and a rigorous empiricism to it all – marked by a sparseness of narration from its director, who merely supplies essential context to material he allows to speak for itself – that crystalizes the facts in way that’s entirely rational, and leaves us with an ominous feeling of familiarity with the world in which its controversial subject made her contribution to cinematic history; it’s this which renders Veiel’s documentary with such a profound sense of relevance, an ominous feeling of déjà vu that might be best illuminated through Riefenstahl’s own words from the final recorded conversation included in the film, in which she predicts that it will take “one or two generations” for Germany to reawaken to the “morality, decency, and virtue” to which its people are “predestined.”

Doing the math, her calculations feel ominously accurate, though perhaps the spirit that has reawakened has more to do with a particular worldview than a specific national identity.

“Riefenstahl” premiered at the Venice film festival in 2024, with an American debut at Telluride earlier this year. Released in New York and screening at venues across the U.S. and Canada this fall, it’s a movie to watch for. Set your radar accordingly.

These four intertwined stories will leave you flabbergasted

Characters in ‘The Elements’ wrestle with culpability and the past

By TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

You weren’t proud of it.

Something you did in your past, yesterday, five years ago, a lifetime, you think of it sometimes and poke it like a bad tooth. You’re not proud of it but you paid for it anyhow, with time, money, apologies, or through a jury of your peers and you know this: as in the new novel, “The Elements” by John Boyne, the condemnation is harshest when the jury is you.

She changed her name again.

It was the first thing Willow Hale did when she rented the cottage on an island not far from Dublin. Isolation would help her sort things out: to figure out why her husband was in jail, why her daughter avoided her. Willow didn’t want anyone to recognize her as she came to terms with her role in what happened.

Though he was born with the skills of an athlete, Evan Keogh didn’t want to be a soccer star. He wanted to be an artist after he left the island, but he wasn’t talented enough. Coming to terms with that took a while, and he sold his body to older men to get by in the meantime. When he finally accepted his athleticism, it was not because he loved the game. It was because he loved revenge but satisfying that itch would ruin his life.

Medical students were annoyances that Freya Petrus had to endure.

Though she was a highly regarded burn surgeon, the truth was that she disliked humanity in general, perhaps because of childhood trauma she couldn’t forget. So, teeth gritted, no family, no friends, no close colleagues, she endured people, relying instead on a sordid hobby to soothe her memories.

Rebecca didn’t ask Aaron Umber to bring their son from Australia to Ireland, but there was a reason he did so, though Emmet balked at the trip. Emmet was at a tender age, not an adult but not a child anymore, either – 14, the same age as when something happened to Aaron that affected him forever. Where to begin?

How about: “The Elements” is an incredible book. How about from the very beginning of it, you’ll be captured by what feels like “The Twilight Zone” without the paranormal; like reading the news, and wincing.

Here, the lush Irish background that author John Boyne so lovingly portrays is secondary to his characters, each of them flawed, maybe irretrievably so, as they wrestle with culpability and self-indulgent recognition of the past. You’ll dangle from a string as four intertwined tales eke out in a delicious tease, detonating a little TNT on a page every now and then to keep you on the edge of your chair.

No spoilers here but the end of these four stories isn’t quite really an end, which will leave you flabbergasted, staring at the back cover for a few minutes after you close it.

Beware that there are adult themes inside this book, and they could be triggering. If that’s not a worry, let yourself be stunned by “The Elements.”

Love it? Guilty.

‘The Elements’

By John Boyne

c.2025, Henry Holt | $29.99 | 496 pages

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Why LGBTQ buyers choose certain markets

Palm Springs, Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale among favorites

By SCOTT HELMS

The Williams Institute at UCLA estimates that more than 16 million U.S. adults identify as LGBTQ+, and nearly 50% of them are homeowners. While that number is growing, it still lags behind the nearly 70% homeownership rate for the general population (U.S. Census Bureau).

According to the National Association of Gay and Lesbian Real Estate Professionals (NAGLREP):

• 73% of LGBTQ+ renters say they want to own a home in the future.

• 46% of LGBTQ+ homeowners report that neighborhood inclusivity was a top factor in their purchase.

• LGBTQ+ buyers are twice as likely as the general population to prioritize finding a realtor who understands their community’s needs.

Key factors that make some markets more attractive include:

• Legal Protections: 23 states and Washington, D.C. have comprehensive LGBTQ+ housing protections, while others rely only on federal law.

• Community & Visibility: LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhoods offer inclusive schools, businesses, and cultural hubs.

• Affordability: With the median U.S. home price hitting $420,800 in 2025 (National Association of Realtors), affordability plays a major role.

• Employment & Lifestyle: Cities with thriving job markets and visible LGBTQ+ communities attract more first-time buyers.

Top LGBTQ+ Buyer Markets in 2025

1. Wilton Manors & Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Wilton Manors ranks in the top three U.S. cities for same-sex households per capita (U.S. Census). Nearly 15% of all households here are same-sex couples — more than ten times the national average. Home buyers are drawn to its walkable neighborhoods, thriving LGBTQ+ nightlife, and established support services.

Tip: Partner with a gay-friendly realtor from GayRealEstate.com who knows the ins and outs of Broward County. They can help identify neighborhoods that balance affordability with strong resale value.

2. Palm Springs, Calif.

Palm Springs has the highest per-capita LGBTQ+ population in the U.S., with estimates showing over 40% of residents identify as LGBTQ+. Median home prices here hover around $700,000 (Zillow 2025), but buyers benefit from established LGBTQ+ networks, Pride festivals, and retirement communities designed with inclusivity in mind.

Insight: Palm Springs is also home to more than 30 LGBTQ+ organizations, making it a top choice for retirees and second-home buyers.

3. Austin, Texas

Though Texas lacks statewide protections, Austin is home to over 100,000 LGBTQ+ residents and consistently ranks as the state’s most progressive city. Home values rose 8% in 2024 (Zillow), but median prices remain lower than coastal hubs at $490,000. The booming

tech industry and music culture draw younger LGBTQ+ professionals.

Statistic: Over 12% of Austin’s residents identify as LGBTQ+, compared to the U.S. average of about 7%.

4. Columbus, Ohio

Columbus has one of the most affordable large housing markets, with median home prices around $310,000 in 2025 (Redfin). The city is home to an estimated 90,000 LGBTQ+ residents, supported by one of the Midwest’s most visible Pride events.

Tip: Same-sex couples purchasing in Midwest markets like Columbus often find 30–40% larger properties for the same price as smaller coastal condos.

5. Portland, Ore. & Seattle, Wash.

The Pacific Northwest continues to attract LGBTQ+ buyers. Seattle’s LGBTQ+ population is estimated at 200,000, or about 12% of the city. Portland also ranks among the top 10 most LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the U.S.

Seattle median home price: $930,000 (2025).

Portland median home price: $540,000 (2025).

Insight: Nearly 70% of LGBTQ+ buyers in Portland report choosing their home based on neighborhood inclusivity (NAGLREP).

6. Atlanta, Ga.

Atlanta is home to the largest LGBTQ+ population in the South, with an estimated 300,000 LGBTQ+ residents in the metro area. The city’s median home price is $405,000 (2025), making it more affordable than many LGBTQ+-friendly metros.

Resource: Many buyers find LGBTQ+-friendly mortgage professionals and agents through GayRealEstate. com’s national network — ensuring allies are on your side every step of the way.

Tips for LGBTQ+ Home Buyers and Sellers

Work with an LGBTQ+ Real Estate Agent. Representation matters. An LGBTQ+ realtor understands your unique needs and ensures you’re respected throughout the transaction. Start with GayRealEstate.com, the trusted LGBTQ+ real estate resource for over three decades.

•Know Your Legal Protections. Federal law prohibits housing discrimination, but local protections vary. Currently, 27 states still lack full protections against housing discrimination for LGBTQ+ individuals.

• Identify Inclusive Neighborhoods. Look for areas with LGBTQ+-owned businesses, active community centers, and visible Pride events — strong signs of acceptance and safety.

• Plan Financially. Same-sex couples should decide how to take title — joint tenants, tenants in common, or another structure. An LGBTQ+-friendly real estate attorney can help secure your rights.

• If Selling, Market Inclusively. Sellers in LGBTQ+-friendly markets should highlight proximity to inclusive schools, LGBTQ+ hubs, and protections in place.

Resources for LGBTQ+ Buyers & Sellers

• GayRealEstate.com – The largest and most trusted network of LGBTQ+ real estate agents in the U.S.

• Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Municipal Equality Index – Scores 506 cities nationwide on LGBTQ+ inclusivity.

• NAGLREP – Advocacy and data for LGBTQ+ buyers and sellers.

Final Thoughts

The dream of homeownership is universal — but for the LGBTQ+ community, finding the right place and the right representation makes all the difference. Whether you’re searching for a condo in Wilton Manors, a bungalow in Portland, or a starter home in Columbus, today’s buyer markets offer opportunities where inclusivity and value meet.

With the guidance of a trusted LGBTQ+ real estate agent from GayRealEstate.com, you can navigate the buying or selling process with confidence, knowing your needs will be understood, respected, and protected.

SCOTT

HELMS is president and owner of Gayrealestate.com.

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