Hello, lovelies! Another installment of wonderful news from around the world is heading your way. As we begin, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!

Starting off in the United States, history has been made as Dr. Rachel Levine was recently sworn in as a four-star admiral. Meaning, she has become the first transgender four-star officer in all eight uniformed services. She seeks to continue her advocacy of the LGBTQ+ community utilizing her platform, and has high hopes that equity, diversity, and inclusivity will be taking a center stage during the Biden-Harris administration. She is an admirable leader and is unafraid to let herself be heard!

Moving on to Hungary, the MTV Europe Music Awards seek to make a statement this November as they continue to hold the event despite recent anti-LGBTQ+ legislation being passed. They hope to make a stand and encourage others to stand with them against these discriminatory laws. Although they realize backlash is certain, they feel it is more important than ever to push forward and show they stand with the LGBTQ+ community.

International Pronouns Day is also cause for celebration! October 20th marks an important day which promotes the usage of correct pronouns, as well as awareness. The day began on October 3rd, 2018, and no matter how you celebrate, it is something to be proud of and to recognize. This comes with an important message to carefully consider and recognize others' pronouns, as they are an important part of who we all are.

To finish off, we will be looking at global trends over the past years. Most importantly, LGBTQ+ acceptance around the world. There's no need to go into detail, as this segment is about positivity, but we're all aware that the LGBTQ+ community is still subject to hate, discrimination, and disrespect around the world. While we are making steps towards adjusting the global outlook on this, our work is not done yet. However, studies have shown that people in the United States, India, South Africa, Japan, Mexico, and many more countries have increased their acceptance of gay rights since 2002. Although these statistics differ from country to country, it is a breath of fresh air to see that gradually change is happening.

And with that, I will finish this off with a quick thank you for reading this. I hope in some way it was able to bring you some positivity or joy to see some good news from around the world. Until next time!

Hello there, dearie!

First off, let me just say that you are amazing just the way you are, no matter what anyone else says. It's tough when the people who are related to you don't understand the impact and hurt that their words and beliefs can have on others. Hearing that you've been dealing with having to listen to them for a while tells me just how strong you are. Don't let them get to you, dearie - you're incredible, and people will love you for you.

Holidays can be awkward when you're stuck with those kinds of family members, especially if you don't have the option to just skip the whole affair. When you're older, you'll have the ability to leave these events whenever you choose to, or even to avoid going in the first place. Until then, you still have a couple of options available to you. The simplest solution is to just walk away. I know it seems hard sometimes, especially if you're stuck in a small house or apartment with limited space. Just changing rooms and avoiding those people may be all that you can do. If they follow you and persist, tell them to leave you alone, and if they don't, go get an adult that you trust to help you.

Sometimes you might want to get into a discussion - or even a confrontation - with these family members, and I caution you to only do so if you feel safe enough to engage. Some people will not respond favorably, regardless of being related to you or not, and I don't want you to be in an unsafe situation. It seems counterproductive to not speak up when someone is saying things that are hurtful, but your safety is what is most important. If you have family members who will advocate for you and back you up, then you might feel safer about talking to the less open-minded folks, but please take care of your safety first.

No matter what, remember that having to be around these people isn't the whole of the holidays, and you will be away from them soon enough. If you need somewhere to 'go' while you're there, you can always hop on HEX from one of those Muggle mobile devices and find safe spaces here. Please know that you are amazing, and you are loved. ♥

Love,
Your Queer Auntie

Dear Queer Auntie,

Clueless Clubber

Hello there, dearie!

he LGBTQ+ club scene is as diverse and fabulous as the LGBTQ+ community itself, and there are a lot of different types of bars and nightclubs in different cities, states, and countries. First off, make sure you know the legal rules in your area for going to bars and clubs in general - you have to be of a certain age at most places, though some events could allow for a younger crowd on special nights with restrictions. It may seem like a great idea to try and get in somewhere with a fake ID or to sneak into a club when you're too young, but it's not - in fact, it's dangerous. I also recommend always going with friends, just for safety purposes. You also should make sure you have a safe and secure way home with a sober driver.

Check out the locations ahead of time to find out if they have any kind of special nights or events before you head out. There may be different cover charges, different dress codes, and different social expectations. For instance, if you go to a club that's having a drag show, you should come prepared in advance to tip the performers and enjoy the show. There may be different cover charges if there are guest DJs or performers, so come prepared to pay at the door.

As for the social scene itself, my biggest piece of advice is to just be yourself, be respectful, and have fun! Good luck, dearie, and stay safe! ♥

Love,
Your Queer Auntie