The OutLook is our weekly roundup of political issues that affect the LGBTQ+ community.
- The Stonewall National Monument page has removed the word “bisexual” from its National Park Service site. Earlier this year, the words “transgender” and “queer” were removed, as well as the Q and T in LGBTQ.
- Illinois state Sen. Mike Simmons has launched a bid for Congress in Illinois’ 9th District, aiming to bring his lived experience as a Black, LGBTQ+ leader to Washington. He’s campaigning on affordability, health care, and civil rights, saying his life story is rooted in fighting for equity.
- Florida clinics are continuing to offer free HIV testing despite recent federal budget cuts that threaten to undermine national prevention efforts .
- California Attorney General Rob Bonta has pledged to defend the state in a federal lawsuit challenging its law allowing transgender girls to participate in school sports. He emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of trans youth in athletics amid mounting legal attacks.
- Ohio’s effort to enshrine the Equal Rights Amendment in the state constitution hit a major roadblock this week after lawmakers balked at proposed changes that would have strengthened its protections. Critics argue the amendments could weaken civil rights, setting up a contentious battle ahead.