Hungary Bans LGBTQ+ Pride Events: Hungary's parliament has enacted a law banning LGBTQ+ Pride events and restricting assembly rights. Thousands of protesters in Budapest blocked a major thoroughfare in opposition to this legislation, which also permits the use of facial recognition technology to identify participants. Critics, including the United Nations, argue that the law infringes on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. ABC News+2AP News+2Reuters+2
United States News
Texas A&M University Drag Show Ban Overturned: A federal judge has ruled that Texas A&M University cannot prohibit the LGBTQ+ group's annual drag show, "Draggieland." The court found that the university's ban likely violated First Amendment rights, emphasizing that individuals offended by the event could choose not to attend. This decision may influence policies at other educational institutions that have restricted similar performances. Houston Chronicle
LGBTQ+ Displays Targeted in Florida Libraries: Republican officials in Florida are pressuring libraries in Largo and Palm Harbor to remove LGBTQ+ displays from youth sections. Items such as children's books by LGBTQ+ authors and related resources have been taken down following threats to cut state funding. This move has sparked debates about censorship and the availability of diverse materials in public spaces. Axios
Challenges to LGBTQ+ Arts Funding: An executive order by President Donald Trump prohibits organizations seeking funding from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) from promoting "gender ideology." This policy has significantly impacted LGBTQ+ art and theater groups, leading to legal challenges alleging violations of free speech and due process. The NEA has temporarily suspended the certification requirement amid ongoing litigation. The Guardian
Migration and Asylum
Support for LGBTQ+ Migrants in Mexico: Casa Frida, a shelter in Tapachula, Mexico, continues to support LGBTQ+ migrants fleeing violence and discrimination, despite a 60% funding cut following aid suspensions by the Trump administration. The shelter provides refuge, legal guidance, and psychological counseling, but faces challenges in sustaining its operations due to financial constraints. AP News
Community Initiatives
El Cerrito, California, as an LGBTQ+ Haven: El Cerrito, a city in Northern California, is positioning itself as a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ individuals facing intolerance elsewhere. Under the leadership of Mayor Carolyn Wysinger, the first openly Black lesbian mayor in California, the city plans to host significant Pride events and introduce initiatives like Drag Queen Story Hour to foster inclusivity and attract LGBTQ+ families and businesses. San Francisco Chronicle
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