LGBTQ+ News Roundup: April 14–20, 2025
The week of April 14 to 20, 2025, was marked by significant developments in LGBTQ+ rights and advocacy worldwide. Here's a comprehensive overview of the key events and discussions:
Legal and Policy Developments
United Kingdom: Supreme Court Ruling on Gender Definition
On April 16, the UK Supreme Court ruled that the terms "woman" and "sex" in the Equality Act 2010 refer to biological sex, not gender reassignment status. This decision means that transgender women, even those with a Gender Recognition Certificate, can be excluded from positions or services designated for biological women. The ruling has sparked concern among LGBTQ+ organizations, which warn of negative implications for transgender people's rights and safety.
Hungary: Constitutional Amendment Restricts LGBTQ+ Rights
Hungary's parliament passed a constitutional amendment on April 14 that defines sex strictly as male or female, effectively denying legal recognition for transgender identities. The amendment also allows the government to ban public events by LGBTQ+ communities, reflecting a broader governmental crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights.
United States: NIH Halts LGBTQ+ HIV Research Funding
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) terminated approximately $8.9 million in funding for key HIV research projects focused on improving prevention and treatment access for LGBTQ+ communities. The NIH justified the cuts by stating the research did not align with its mission to enhance health, lengthen life, or reduce illness. The funding cuts have sparked concern in the academic community, with critics warning that such reductions jeopardize efforts to end HIV in the U.S.
Advocacy and Cultural Responses
Nicola Coughlan Raises Funds for Trans Rights
In response to the UK Supreme Court ruling, actress Nicola Coughlan launched a fundraising campaign for the trans charity Not A Phase. Her campaign quickly surpassed its initial goal, raising over £70,000 within a day. Coughlan condemned the ruling and encouraged allies to speak out in support of the trans community.
Kesha Advocates for Radical Love and Empathy
At the annual Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center's fundraising dinner in New York City, pop artist Kesha received the visionary award for her advocacy and contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. In her speech, Kesha urged the queer community to remain "radical" amid ongoing societal challenges, emphasizing the power of love, empathy, and authenticity as forms of resistance and strength.
Community and Religious Engagement
Black LGBTQ+ Christians Seek Affirmation from Churches
While acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals has grown among Black Protestants, many Black church institutions remain opposed or silent on issues like same-sex marriage. Black LGBTQ+ Christians are calling for their churches to take official stances affirming LGBTQ+ people and to address the lack of representation and support within religious communities.
These developments underscore the ongoing challenges and efforts within the LGBTQ+ community to achieve equality and recognition across various sectors of society.