A document called "Project 2025" developed by the Heritage Foundation in 2024 proposed a wide range of changes in government, federal regulations, and federal cabinet departments. It may become the new Bible of Federal regulations and legislation.
Speaking of the Bible, you know, it’s strange how Jesus talked about divorce and never once mentioned us gay people. Yes, Paul went on a diatribe, but he was mad at the Romans and all the big orgies they had.
The acronym LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) may overnight disappear from all federal documents. Similarly, DEI (Diversity, Education, and Inclusion) may be wiped out.
Since government usually proceeds at a snail’s pace, it is hard to assume that anything will change that quickly. Whatever phrases you can use to describe the community, we simply will not disappear from public view. We’re not going back in the closet regardless of what the Feds may say.
It appears that the infamous “bathroom bill” that cost North Carolina millions in business and tourist dollars is about to be repeated in the Congress. The incoming administration already has announced that transgender and gender fluid people will have a target on their back.
The culture wars seem to have a particular obsession with the MAGA folks. The Republicans included gender issues as part of their 2024 campaign strategy. Considering that only about 1.4% of Americans identify as transgender, the controversy seems way out of proportion. The public seems to support protection against hate crimes and discrimination in employment, but they are concerned about athletics, bathrooms, and women’s prisons. The real hot button issue seems to be surgery and/or hormone treatment for children under the age of 18. Unfortunately, those who wait until later have a more difficult process of transitioning after they already have established a gender identity.
Carolina Aging Alliance
Serving Older LGBTQ+ Adults
Meet-up lists 30 LGBTQ+ activities in the Triangle in October. I also know of some sports groups that aren’t listed on Meet-up. There also are other groups who do not meet monthly or the Drag brunches that are held in straight cafes. We previously have featured the LGBT Center of Raleigh that notes 25 years of service in Raleigh.
This month I’m focused on the old folks. The group provides advocacy, education and social interaction. Originally named “Gay & Gray” in 2011, the group then reformed as SAGE – Raleigh in 2012, and then SAGE - Central North Carolina in 2019, and Carolina Aging Alliance in 2022 as funding sources and staff changed. The non-profit has two chapters: The Triangle includes Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, and the Triad includes Greensboro.