Join PFLAG at the Jewish Congregation of Oak Ridge for their monthly meeting, where Jewish educator Dale Rosenberg will discuss the advances and setbacks of LGBTQ rights in the U.S. during the first term of the Trump administration. Learn about the history of the LGBTQ movement and what to expect in the future from this important talk. All are welcome to attend and participate in open dialogue about sexual orientation and gender identities. Don't miss this opportunity to engage in meaningful conversation and work towards a more diverse and respectful society.
LGBTQ Rights in the U.S.: Progress and Setbacks under the Trump Administration
The LGBTQ community has made significant progress in recent years, with the legalization of same-sex marriage, the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," and the increased visibility of LGBTQ people in media and culture. However, the election of President Donald Trump has cast a cloud of uncertainty over the future of LGBTQ rights.
During his campaign, Trump promised to appoint Supreme Court justices who would overturn Roe v. Wade and pledged not to sign the Equality Act, which would expand federal civil rights laws to include protections for LGBTQ people. Although Trump has reversed some of his anti-LGBTQ rhetoric since taking office, his administration has taken several actions that have been seen as hostile to the LGBTQ community.
These actions include:
These actions have sparked widespread protests and concern among LGBTQ activists and allies. They worry that the Trump administration is rolling back the progress that has been made in recent years and that LGBTQ people are once again at risk of discrimination and violence.
FAQs
1. What is the Equality Act?
The Equality Act is a proposed federal law that would expand the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to include protections for LGBTQ people. It would prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, credit, jury service, and public accommodations.
2. What is the status of the Equality Act?
The Equality Act has been introduced in both the House and Senate but has not yet been passed by either chamber. It faces strong opposition from Republicans, who argue that it would infringe on religious freedom and lead to discrimination against people who hold traditional views of marriage and gender.
3. What is the Trump administration's position on the Equality Act?
The Trump administration has not taken an official position on the Equality Act. However, several members of the administration have expressed opposition to the bill, including Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Vice President Mike Pence.
4. What are the implications of the Trump administration's policies for LGBTQ people?
The policies of the Trump administration have created a climate of fear and uncertainty for LGBTQ people. They are concerned about the possibility of losing their jobs, being denied housing or credit, or being discriminated against in other ways.
5. What can you do to support LGBTQ rights?
There are many ways to support LGBTQ rights. You can:
Mumbai-based social media influencer, Orhan Awatramani, popularly known as Orry, has been summoned by the Mumbai Police's Anti-Narcotics Cell in connection with a massive drug trafficking case worth Rs 252 crore. The case is linked to a major drug bust in July 2025, where drugs worth over Rs 300 crore were seized. The investigation, which includes allegations of high-profile parties involving Bollywood figures, was initiated based on statements given by an arrested drug dealer who claimed Orry was involved in organizing or attending such events. This marks the second legal trouble for Orry this year, as he was previously booked for violating liquor laws in Jammu & Kashmir.
The grand 'GlobeTrotter' event at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad saw the much-awaited title and first look reveal of SS Rajamouli's next film 'Varanasi', starring Mahesh Babu. The event was virtually streamed on JioHotstar and attended by the star cast, including Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran, along with a power-packed performance by Shruti Haasan. The highly anticipated film, slated for release in 2027, features an ensemble cast and is being made on a massive budget. The teaser has already garnered over 3.9 million views on YouTube and has received praise from fans for its cinematic shots and Rajamouli's direction.
A shocking and brutal attack on actor Saif Ali Khan at his high-security home in Mumbai has left the family in a state of shock and trauma. Although Saif is out of danger, the breach of security has raised serious concerns about the safety of the family. Close friend Sharmila Tagore is flying in to support the family, while Saif's previous concerns about the invasive nature of paparazzi have taken on a much more serious meaning.
Despite the K-pop idol repeatedly warning against violations of his privacy, two Japanese women were allegedly caught trying to break into Jungkook's home in Seoul. The incident, which was filmed by a Russian fan, sparked outrage among BTS' fan community with calls for privacy and respect. This comes just months after a previous break-in attempt on the day Jungkook returned from his military service.
Renowned filmmaker S S Rajamouli, along with a star-studded line up of actors including Priyanka Chopra and Mahesh Babu, recently attended the grand Globetrotter event in Hyderabad. During the event, Rajamouli made a groundbreaking announcement that his upcoming film Varanasi will be the first Indian movie to be filmed in IMAX. He also explained the difference between true IMAX and "blown up" versions, further emphasizing the innovative technology that will be used for his highly anticipated film.
Celebrated filmmaker SS Rajamouli has revealed the much-awaited teaser of his upcoming magnum opus "Globetrotter", which boasts a stellar cast including Priyanka Chopra, Mahesh Babu, and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The teaser was launched at a grand event in Hyderabad's Ramoji Film City, attended by a massive crowd of 50,000 fans. Along with the teaser, the audience also got to witness thrilling live performances by the film's lead cast and music composer MM Keeravani.
The upcoming film 120 Bahadur, starring Farhan Akhtar as Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, is set to release on November 21st. However, the makers have decided to commemorate the 63rd anniversary of the historic Battle of Rezang La by offering select paid previews two days before the official release. This move demonstrates the confidence the production team has in the film and its portrayal of the bravery of all 120 soldiers who fought in the war. Farhan Akhtar has clarified that the film aims to honor the entire company, not just one individual, and carries a powerful message of unwavering resolve and patriotism. Fans of military dramas and history buffs alike will not want to miss this highly anticipated film.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Sanju Samson, recently traded to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from Rajasthan Royals (RR), expresses his gratitude for his former team after 10 years of association. With 177 IPL matches, Samson is now one of the most experienced players in the league and will join CSK with this change. This will be his third franchise in his career, while CSK also traded their all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja to the Royals, where Jadeja started his IPL journey.
Former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney advises Aston Villa's Jack Grealish to give up hopes of making England's World Cup squad next year. Meanwhile, Manchester United is standing firm on keeping Joshua Zirkzee despite interest from other clubs. Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus is reportedly hoping for a return to his previous club Palmeiras. In other news, Manchester United is eyeing Malmo's goalkeeper Melker Ellborg as a potential backup option.
Jharkhand is alive with celebrations today, marking both its Silver Jubilee Foundation Day and freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda's 150th birth anniversary. Several events are planned, including a visit to Munda's birthplace by Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, Jual Oram, and Jharkhand Chief Minister, Hemant Soren. The state government has also declared the Birsa Festival as a Tourism festival, while the BJP plans to hold public rallies across the state.