Lesbian and queer women slayed in 2022 in the realms of social justice, music, film, sports, and more. As we approach another new year, we reflect on the accomplishments and milestones of 2022 to be acknowledged and celebrated. Members of our LGBTQ+ family provided hope for more change and achievement in the coming year.
Here are 100 lesbian, bi, trans, queer, and just plain human moments that had extra special meaning for our entire community.
Israel Lifts Restrictions On Surrogacy For Same-Sex Couples And Single Men – January 4, 2022
Israel lifted restrictions on surrogacy for same-sex couples and single men, following a ruling from the country’s Supreme Court back in July. The court ruled that the state had six months to lift the restrictions, which barred same-sex couples and single men from gaining access to surrogates. Previously, the law – which originally applied only to opposite-sex parents – had been expanded to include single women. The July ruling followed one from the previous year, in which the court determined that the existing law governing surrogacy should be expanded. However, since the Israeli government failed to lift restrictions for over a year, the court stepped in again.
Arlo Parks And Ashnikko Get Together – January 10, 2022
This new-on-the-scene sapphic couple is too cute for words – and the two singers seem to agree, according to Ashnikko’s caption to one of their Instagram posts which shows the couple cuddling: “I’M SORRY BUT WE ARE STUPID DUM DUM HOT.”
Netflix Debuts Its First LGBTQ+ Podcast, ‘The Gay Agenda’ – January 10, 2022
“The Gay Agenda,” a podcast that celebrates LGBTQ+ creatives, dropped on Netflix January 10. It was the first LGBTQ+ podcast for the popular streaming platform. “The Gay Agenda” was produced by out actress and singer Jasmin Savoy Brown and her “Yellowjackets” co-star, non-binary actor Liv Hewson (“Don’t worry,” a disclaimer on a Netflix news release reads. “No cannibalism is involved.”). On each episode, Brown and Hewson interview LGBTQ+ pioneers from across different industries, including Fortune Feimster, Natalie Morales, Javicia Leslie, and Leo Sheng.
Andrea Jenkins Makes History As First Out Black Trans Woman To Lead Minneapolis City Council – January 12, 2022
Minneapolis councilwoman Andrea Jenkins made history when she became the first out Black trans woman elected city council president following an unanimous vote. She is now the first out trans official to lead a city council anywhere in the nation. Jenkins already made history in 2017 when she was voted onto the city council, making her the first out Black trans woman elected to public office.
Miss Universe Australia Maria Thattil Comes Out As Bisexual – January 13, 2022
Miss Universe Australia Maria Thattil came out as a proud bisexual. Thattil, who was featured on season 8 of the Australian hit reality show, “I’m a Celebrity … Get Me Out of Here!,” opened up about her sexuality in an episode. “Growing up, I always thought, like, maybe I was a little bi-curious, and only ever dated straight people,” Thattil admitted in the episode. “But growing up, I did have crushes on girls that I went to school with. Even as I got, like, older, I thought, I can appreciate an attractive woman.”
Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey Announces She Is Running For Governor – January 21, 2022
Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey (and GO Women We Love alum, 2019 and 2022) announced her historic run for the state’s governorship. The candidate made her first public remarks at a small gathering outside of an East Boston metro station, where she focused her campaign on problem-solving everyday issues, such as the high cost of living and child care.
Queer Female-Driven ‘Last Night at the Telegraph Club’ Wins Stonewall Book Award — January 24, 2022
Malinda Lo—New York Times bestselling author, the voice behind queer Cinderella retelling “Ash,” and one of GO’s 2022 Women We Love—kicked off the year in literary style. Her latest, “Last Night at the Telegraph Club,” a Red Scare-set queer female coming of age novel, won the prestigious Stonewall Book Award, one of three the American Library Association bestows each year for exceptional LGBTQ+ literature.
Jasmin Savoy releases “Orange Wine” – January 28, 2022
Before reprising her role as a star soccer player and plane crash survivor in Showtime’s “Yellowjackets,” Jasmin Savoy released her second single, a smooth and sultry ode to dates that ended too soon. In the video for “Orange Wine,” cast in bisexual lighting, Savoy sings, “But at least we kissed/ At least we kissed / I got to taste your lips. You put your hands on my hips / Careful; you’re making me slip.”
Kris Wilka And Trans Inclusion in Sport – February 1, 2022
In February, P.E. Moskowitz published “Kris Wilka Just Wants to Play Football” for GQ. The article showcases Kris Wilka, a 14-year old trans athlete, and his experience navigating transphobic policies in South Dakota. The piece addresses misleading transphobic narratives and highlights youth like Kris Wilka who are at the forefront of LGBTQ+ activism today.
U.S. Soccer, Players’ Unions Reach Historic Agreement on Equal Pay – February 22, 2022
The U.S. Soccer Federation and players’ unions reached an agreement on equal pay for players on the women’s and men’s national teams. As part of the historic agreement, U.S. Soccer committed to providing an equal pay rate to players regardless of sex, and to also award $22 million in damages to players on the Women’s National Team.
The 10th Anniversary Queerties Awards Show Honors The Best And The Baddest – February 24, 2022
Over 1.4 million votes were cast to crown the winners of this year’s Queerties, an award show celebrating the best in LGBTQ+ culture and media. Some notable winners were Lil Nas X for Anthem of The Year, Wanda Sykes for Standout Standup, “Pose” for Best TV Series, Gottmik for The Groundbreaker Award, and Michaela Jaé Rodriguez for The Icon Award.
Hunter Schafer Revives Her Runway Career for Prada – February 24 2022
For many, Hunter Schafer is the beloved Jules on HBO’s “Euphoria,” but before her days on screen, she made a name for herself in the fashion world. On February 24, Schafer reclaimed the catwalk along with fashion’s biggest “it girls,” such as Kendall Jenner and Kaia Gerber, at the Prada show during Milan Fashion Week.
Florida House Passes Controversial ‘Don’t Say Gay’ Bill – February 24, 2022
A controversial bill restricting schools from teaching content related to sexual orientation and gender identity was passed in the Florida House. House Bill 1557, dubbed the “Don’t Say Gay” bill by critics, requires that schools “[prohibit] classroom discussion about sexual orientation or gender identity in certain grade levels” and policies that prohibit “parental notification [and] involvement in critical decisions affecting student’s mental, emotional, or physical well-being.”
Trayvon Martin Killed 10 Years Ago, Sparking Black Lives Matter Movement – February 26, 2022
Feb, 26, 2022 marked the 10-year anniversary of the death of Trayvon Martin, whose death at the hands of George Zimmerman inspired the Black Lives Matter movement. Following Zimmerman’s acquittal the following year – he alleged self-defense in Martin’s killing – #BlackLivesMatter began trending on social media, sparking a nation-wide movement to protest the deaths of Black persons at the hands of police and others.
Justine Lindsay Becomes The First Openly Transgender NFL Cheerleader – March 2022
In March, Justine Lindsay became the first openly transgender NFL cheerleader, joining the Carolina Panthers’ TopCats Cheerleaders. She’s been met with a lot of support from the Panthers organization and the Charlotte community. “This is just the beginning,” Justine said. “I appreciate everyone who has been supporting me from March to now. I love them and hope I can still inspire young transpersons to let them know they can do the same thing I’m doing, if not more. I just hope I can be an inspiration to someone out there.”
GO Writers Publish Young Adult Fiction and Poetry — March 15, 2022 and August 2, 2022
This year, GO writers A’Kala Chaires and Lauren Emily penned and published full-length books. Chaires’ poetry collection “Diary Of…” chronicles the unique experience of weathering one’s twenties in the midst of a global pandemic, and Emily’s latest young adult novel “Take Her Down” explores queer identity in the midst of a cutthroat high school election and a frightening political climate.
Lesbian Icon & Author Leslie Cohen Passed Away – March 16, 2022
Lesbian icon and author Leslie Cohen passed away in mid-March. Cohen had long been a fixture of the New York City’s LGBTQ+ community. She was one of four women who opened Sahara, a legendary upscale women’s club, in the 1970s, and later worked as a nightclub promoter before attending law school. She and her wife, Beth Suskin, were also the models for George Segal’s “Gay Liberation” sculpture in the Village’s Christopher Park. Her 2021 memoir, “The Audacity of a Kiss,” was nominated for a Lambda Literary Award for best Lesbian Memoir/Biography.
Neema Avashia Remembers Growing Up Indian and Queer in Appalachia in New Memoir — March 25, 2022
Most Appalachia-set narratives are decidedly straight and white (remember “Hillbilly Elegy”?), but Neema Avashia’s memoir flipped the script. Avashia’s family lived in West Virginia thanks to the region’s call for scientists and engineers in the 1970s and 80s, and her memoir “Another Appalachia: Coming Up Queer and Indian in a Mountain Place,” is a deeply personal view of living with an intersectional identity in an increasingly complex region.
Roxane Gay Books Imprint Announces First Three Titles — March 28, 2022
Author, media personality, and queer icon Roxane Gay is spreading the gospel of literature, through her new imprint Roxane Gay Books, launched in May 2021 with the purpose of publishing writing that is “beautifully written, provocative, and intelligent.” This year, Gay announced the imprint’s first three titles, which will be published in 2023. The second title is “Lush Lives,” a queer female literary romance expected in August of next year.
Ariana Debose Becomes First Openly Queer Woman of Color to Win an Oscar- March 27, 2022
Ariana Debose made history at this year’s Oscars for being the first openly queer woman of color to win Best Actress in a Supporting role. Debose’s win was well deserved for her freshly astounding portrayal of Anita in Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of “West Side Story.” In her acceptance speech, Debose paid homage to the iconic Rita Moreno who originated the cinematic role of Anita in 1961 and became the first Latina to win an Oscar. She spoke directly to the queer community while referencing Steven Sondheim’s lyrics, “To anyone who has ever questioned your identity…I promise you, there is indeed a place for us.”
JoJo Siwa Trades Signature Ponytail For Gay™ Cut – April 6, 2022
Forget the bows and the blonde ponytail – JoJo Siwa got a swaggy new look. Siwa, who came out as part of the queer community last year, posted a video on Instagram of herself in a hair-styling session with the caption, “Mayyyyy have done something todayyyy.” In the video, Siwa smiles while screaming as her ponytail is sheared.
Andrea Askowitz Reflects on ‘Miserable, Lonely, Lesbian Pregnancy’ — April 11, 2022
Unless you’re Bette Porter and Tina Kennard, lesbian pregnancy is still not discussed as often as it should be. In 2008’s “My Miserable, Lonely Lesbian Pregnancy,” author, teacher, editor and podcast producer Andrea Askowitz looks back on her own experience with blistering humor and endless heart. This year, Askowitz spoke with GO about the book and her daughter, Tashi, now turning 18: “55,000 words. It’s a whole love letter to her.”
Janelle Monáe Comes Out As Non-Binary – April 20, 2022
The actor and singer-songwriter opened up about their gender identity in an episode of Red Table Talk with hosts Jada Pinkett Smith, Willow Smith, and Adrienne Banfield-Norris. “I’m non-binary. I just don’t see myself as a woman or solely – I feel all of my energy,” Monáe said early in the episode. “I feel like God is so much bigger than the ‘He’ or the ‘She.’ And if I am from God, I am everything.”
The 33rd Annual GLAAD Media Awards Honors Inclusive Representation of the LGBTQ+ Community in English- and Spanish-Speaking Media – April 2, 2022
For the first time since 2019, the GLAAD Media Awards was held in-person to honor films, television shows, video games, musicians and works of journalism that fairly represent the LGBTQ+ community. The event was hosted by drag royalty Shangela, Bob the Drag Queen, and Eureka O’Hara. Both English- and Spanish-speaking productions were honored.
Zolita’s ‘I Fucking Love You’ – April 27, 2022
Zolita’s ambitious “Somebody I Fucked Once” trilogy begins with an over-the-top and nostalgia-coated fling between a pretty pink cheerleader and the sensitive artist in a black-cut off. Three narratively rich music videos follow the couple from graduation to breakup and finally conclude with a very sweet in-concert kiss.
SZA Comes Out In A Tweet – April 28, 2022
“Look what they saying about you,” a fan tweeted at SZA with a picture of the R&B singer framed by the lesbian flag. “It’s not wrong lol,” she responded. Speculation about SZA’s sexuality had circulated for years. The tweet was a characteristically chill confirmation.
La Gala At The Brooklyn Museum – April 30 2022
Just two nights before the infamous Met Gala, the Brooklyn Museum and drag artist Chiquitita hosted La Gala, a night that centered and celebrated the LGBTQ+ community. It was inspired by the Brooklyn Museum’s exhibition, Andy Warhol: Revelations. Warhol’s work was aimed at dismantling and examining life, death, desire, and the queer body through the eyes of the Catholic Church. The drag, music, and burlesque performances of La Gala were inspired by these same themes.
The Met Gala Returns – May 2, 2022
One of the most highly-anticipated and critiqued evenings in the fashion world, the Met Gala was back in full swing for its regular First Monday in May scheduling. The theme was Gilded Glamour, and the queers did not disappoint. Janelle Monáe donned a Esther Williams-inspired Ralph Lauren piece, while Tommy Dorfman wore latex for her first time at the event. Emma Corrin, Lena Waithe, and Phoebe Bridgers were amongst the other LGBTQ+ celebrities who showed up and rained glitter all over the red carpet.
Chrishell Stause Reveals She’s In a Queer Relationship – May 6, 2022
On the season 5 reunion special of “Selling Sunset,” Chrishell Stause revealed she was dating a singer who used they/them pronouns. It wasn’t long before fans put pieces together and the story came out: Stause fell for singer and musician G Flip while she was starring in one of their videos. If Stause could put one word to it? According to People, “Awesome.”
Dylan Mulvaney Invites Us On Her Girlhood Journey- May 9, 2022
This year, we all had the privilege of falling in love with content creator Dylan Mulvaney while she documented her transition. Through extreme vulnerability, sense of humor and kindness, Mulvaney quickly rose to fame on TikTok with her “Day of Being a Girl” series. Her magnetic personality has attracted almost three million followers to join her through the ups and downs of her girlhood journey.
Legendary LGBTQ+ Activist Urvashi Vaid Dies At 63 – May 14, 2022
Legendary LGBTQ+ lawyer, writer, and activist Urvashi Vaid died at her home in New York City, following a battle with cancer. She was 63. Vaid had dedicated her life to advancing multiple social causes, including women’s and LGBTQ+ rights, immigration justice, and racial equality. Over the course of her long career, she worked with and co-founded numerous social justice organizations, including LPAC, a political action committee dedicated to supporting progressive lesbian political candidates.
Hayley Kiyoko and Becca Tilley Confirm Their Relationship- May 20, 2022
In May, Kiyoko’s Bachelorette-themed music video “For The Girls” showed her and former “Bachelor” contestant Becca Tilley sharing a steamy kiss. Until the release of Kiyoko’s music video, the two had kept their relationship a secret for four years. After announcing their relationship, the adorable pair shared snapshots and videos of their romance on social media, giving Lemonade Mouth and Bachelor fans alike an unexpected love story.
Cult Classic Trans Novel ‘Nevada’ Gets Pride Month Re-Release — June 7, 2022
Imogen Binnie’s “Nevada” is a short but powerful novel, reimagining the great American road trip through the eyes of a punk trans woman who steals her ex-girlfriend’s car and heads west. This year, the cult classic and 2014 Lambda Literary Award Finalist, which had previously been out of print, received a rerelease and immediately made “best of summer” lists in Vogue, Book Riot and BuzzFeed.
Rebel Wilson Makes Relationship With Ramona Agruma Instagram Official – June 9, 2022
Known for always living unapologetically on the edge, “Pitch Perfect” actress Rebel Wilson announced her relationship with clothing brand designer Ramona Agruma – her first relationship with a woman. Wilson raved to People in May 2022 about their meet cute, describing the beginning of the relationship as “old school” and “very romantic.” She later announced the birth of her daughter in November.
Beanie Feldstein Gets Engaged – June 23, 2022
Actress and producer Beanie Feldstein and her longtime girlfriend announced their engagement on June 23 after a lovely and romantic backyard dinner together, attended by Feldstein’s brother, the famous Jonah Hill. The couple has been going strong for three years.
Thousands Protest After SCOTUS Overturns Roe v. Wade – June 24, 2022
In June, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the landmark decision that legalized abortion access in the United States for nearly 50 years. The decision, which was made in regards to a Mississippi abortion bill, sparked protests around the country, and led to fears that the Court might reverse its decision on other landmark cases, including ones that protect LGBTQ+ rights.
‘Freedom Rally’ for Peace Held in Warsaw – June 25, 2022
Kyiv Pride teamed up with Warsaw Pride to hold a Freedom Rally in Warsaw on the 10-year anniversary of Kyiv Pride’s Equality March. The March was held to promote peace in Ukraine following Russia’s invasion earlier in February. “Russia is taking away our homes, our families, our friends, and our loved ones, but it will never take away our freedom, our visibility, our right to vote,” Kyiv Pride Director Lenny Emson said. “We want to appeal to the whole world: help Ukraine win!”
NYC Pride Parade Returns After Two-Year Hiatus – June 26, 2022
NYC Pride hit the pavement after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19 precautions, and participants partied in the parade for 12 hours. This year’s grand marshals were living LGBTQ+ legends: social media influencer Ts Madison, comedian Punkie Johnson, athlete Schuyler Bailar, activist Dominique Morgan, and advocate Chase Strangio.
Ketanji Brown Jackson Becomes First Black Woman on Supreme Court – June 30, 2022
Ketanji Brown Jackson was sworn in as the first Black woman to serve on the Supreme Court. Jackson had been nominated by President Biden earlier in February to replace retiring Justice Stephen Breyer, and in April was confirmed by a bipartisan vote in the Senate. “It has taken 232 years and 115 prior appointments for a Black woman to be selected to serve on the Supreme Court of the United States, but we’ve made it!” Jackson said in remarks following the ceremony. To borrow a phrase from Lizzo: “It’s about damn time.”
Petition to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage Goes to Ukraine’s President Zelensky – July 12, 2022
A petition to legalize same-sex marriage in Ukraine was sent to President Volodymyr Zelensky after garnering over 28,000 signatures online. While a final decision from the Ukrainian government has yet to be made, Zelensky has come out in support of civil partnerships for same-sex couples, and in December, the country passed a law banning anti-LGBTQ+ hate speech in the media.
‘Becky’s So Hot‘- July 20, 2022
If one thing is for certain, we can always count on Fletcher to stir up some much needed sapphic drama — this time, by writing a love song to her ex’s new girlfriend, Becky Missal, that explores both jealousy and attraction. In the video, Fletcher races about a pink and lavender city making out with Bella Thorne on the back of a motorcycle. It’s a high-octane accompaniment for a song about a love triangle that looks like it came from the pages of a 1980s pulp rag.
Jillian Michaels and DeShanna Marie Minuto Elope – July 22, 2022
All-star American trainer Jillian Michaels got engaged to her then-girlfriend, funky fashion designer DeShanna Marie Minuto, back in 2021, after dating for three years. In a whirlwind romance, they eloped early in 2022 in a private ceremony in Namibia. But fans of the couple need not worry – they’re planning on a “official wedding celebration” in June 2023, according to Page Six.
Girl Splash Makes Waves in Provincetown, MA – July 20-24, 2022
Provincetown, one of the most undeniably gay places in the U.S., hosted it’s annual summer week for women, Girl Splash. Aside from a designated lesbian beach, events included live performances from the band BETTY, whale watching, a tea dance, a scavenger hunt, a dock party called Squirt, and so much more!
Yellow Brick Road Pub, Tulsa’s Only Lesbian Bar, Destroyed In Fire – August 1, 2022
Tulsa’s Yellow Brick Road (YBR) Pub, one of the last lesbian bars in the country, was destroyed in a fire. “Sad day for our little hole in the wall,” read a message posted to the YBR Pub Facebook page. “It’s a total loss, but thankfully everyone is safe. We will rebuild and come back better than ever. We [love] everyone that’s always made this such a special staple of Tulsa.”
Brittney Griner Found Guilty After Making Final Appeal In Closing Arguments – August 4, 2022
Griner, detained in Russia on drug charges in February, was sentenced to nine years in prison following closing arguments in her case. Griner, herself, had the last word, closing out her defense with an apology to her wife, her family, and her teammates in both the WNBA and Russian Premier League, for which she plays in the WNBA off-season. “I never meant to hurt anybody,” she told the court, as reported by Yahoo! Sports. “I never meant to put in jeopardy the Russian population. I never meant to break any laws here. I made an honest mistake and I hope that in your ruling that it doesn’t end my life here.”
Abbi Jacobsen Engaged to Jodi Balfour – August 7, 2022
After announcing their relationship to the public in 2021, “Broad City” star Abbie Jacobson and her girlfriend Jodi Balfour got engaged in August of 2022, according to Entertainment Tonight. The couple looked resplendent in red and pink as they strode down the red carpet for the “A League of Their Own” premiere, ringed hand in ringed hand.
A Queer League Of Their Own – August 12, 2022
The new “A League of Their Own” series co-created by Abbi Jacobson and Will Graham has proved to be an outstanding adaptation of the classic 1992 film. While maintaining the spirit of the original film, this revival gives us a deeper look into the lives of the queer characters. Jacobson reflected on her personal relation to the original film and her hopes to approach the adapted series with a new depth. “We really wanted to open up the lens and scope of this baseball story to encompass a generation of women who are playing baseball, and to focus on the stories that weren’t told in the film. A lot of those were queer stories.”
Scotland Becomes First Country To Make Period Products Available – August 15, 2022
Scotland became the first country to make period products free throughout the country’s public facilities. The Period Product bill had first been introduced by Labour Party member Monica Lennon in 2019 as a means to combat period poverty. It passed unanimously in the country’s parliament in 2020. “Proud of what we have achieved in Scotland,” Lennon wrote on social media after the law took effect. “We are the first, but won’t be the last.”
Singapore Repeals Ban On Same-Sex Relationships – August 22, 2022
Singapore’s government repealed 377a, a colonial-era law that banned same-sex relationships. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced the repeal in his National Day Rally speech, saying that it was “the right thing to do, and something that most Singaporeans will now accept.” The government had previously kept the ban in place, although it has not been actively enforced.
Ezra Furman releases ‘All of Us Flames’ – August 26, 2022
Ezra Furman has long been a musical shape-shifter, jumping from doo-wop to riot girl to folk music. On her latest album she tells exciting and vulnerable stories of transgender resistance, affection, and spirituality. “All of Us Flames” was a bright light in a year of traumatic violence against transgender people.
Hong Kong Court Rules Against Same-Sex Marriage In Latest Challenge – August 26, 2022
A Hong Kong court ruled against same-sex marriage again, this time in a case regarding marriages performed abroad. The Court of Appeal ruled against activist Jimmy Sham, who argued that his same-sex marriage, performed in New York, should be legally recognized. In its decision, the court ruled that Hong Kong’s Basic Law, which took effect in 1990, permitted marriage rights to opposite-sex couples only.
Clexacon Is Held In Anaheim, CA – August 26-28, 2022
Clexacon is an annual convention that celebrates and encourages positive LGBTQ+ content in media and acts as a way to connect fans and content creators alike. The event featured fan favorite guests, speakers, panels, and even a performance from Boi Band! Tons of LGBTQ+ vendors lined the venue, and many of the special guests were available for autographs.
Sue Bird Retires from the WNBA – September, 2022
WNBA star Sue Bird retired after playing for a record-setting 21 seasons, all with the Seattle Storm. With four championships under her belt, 13 All-star appearances, and the WNBA record for all-time assists, Bird seems destined for the Basketball Hall of Fame. In addition to being an unbelievable athlete, Bird later in her career found her voice as an activist, speaking out against racism, sexism, and homophobia on and off the court.
Iran Sentences LGBTQ+ Activists to Death – September 4, 2022
Iran sentenced two LGBTQ+ activists, Elham Chubdar and Zahra Sediqi Hamedani, to death for “promoting homosexuality” and “spreading corruption on earth,” along with other charges. The sentences were widely condemned by human rights organizations and the United Nations, which called for the release of both women. 6Rang, an LGBTQ+ Iranian advocacy group, is continuing to advocate for their release.
“Women, Life, Liberty” Protests Break Out in Iran – Late September 2022
Protests broke out in Iran following the death of Mahsa Amini, a young Kurdish woman, at the hands of the country’s morality police. Amini, who had been taken into custody for wearing her head scarf inappropriately, was allegedly beaten while in custody and later died in hospital. Protesters, many of them women who burned their own head scarves in demonstration, called for changes to the country’s theocratic laws. “Women, life, liberty” has become a slogan of the protests.
dapperQ’s Seventh Annual NYFW Show ‘Bloom’ Returns In-Person – September 8, 2022
Following a two-year break due to the pandemic, dapperQ was back in action during New York’s Fashion Week at their usual location, the Brooklyn Museum. Featuring work from designers such as DEVONATION, Transguy Supply, Stuzo Clothing, Hesta, and others, queer professional and amateur models turned the Brooklyn Museum into a catwalk-party-meets-LGBTQ-haven.
Telfar x Rainbow Pop-Up Drop in Brooklyn – September 11, 2022
Telfar Clemens is the queer Liberian-American fashion designer behind the iconic, pace-changing TELFAR, a fashion line that bridges the gap between subversive and obscure and attainable. On September 11, in lieu of an upcoming collaboration with the longstanding fashion store, Rainbow, TELFAR had a surprise pop-up shop at Rainbow’s in Brooklyn. The lines wrapped around the block for the entire day, as happy customers walked out holding ROYGBIV-inspired bags. As is TELFAR’s nature, the entire day was one giant party.
Bestselling Author Courtney Summers Comes Out and Releases Lesbian Thriller — September 13, 2022
New York Times-bestselling author Courtney Summers’ latest, “I’m the Girl,” investigates victimhood and real-life monsters through a lesbian lens. Though Summers’ previous novels featured queer characters and themes, this year the author herself came out. Summers told GO, “[w]hen I finally realized, it was so obvious in retrospect—but so were the systems in place that prevented that revelation for much of my life.”
Becky Hammon leads Las Vegas Aces to WNBA title – September 18, 2022
Becky Hammon, former WNBA all-star and the first woman and publicly out coach to be a paid NBA assistant, led the Las Vegas Aces to the WNBA title. Hammon spent eight years working as an assistant coach with the San Antonio Spurs and coached the Spurs Summer League with great success. This last season, she coached the Aces and became the first person to win the WNBA championship as a player and as a head coach.
The Dinah Shore Has A New Home at The Margaritaville Resort in Palm Springs – September 21-25, 2022
The hottest lesbian party in the country, The Dinah Shore, was held in beautiful Palm Springs at the Margaritaville Resort. Wild parties were thrown all weekend, including the famous Black and White Ball and The L Word Pool Party, and they featured star-studded performances from queer artists like Fletcher and Zolita.
The Lesbian Bar Project Drops Trailer For Upcoming Docuseries – September 23, 2022
The Lesbian Bar Project dropped the trailer for its October docuseries. The docuseries tells “the heartfelt and human stories behind” three of the country’s remaining lesbian bars, says series co-creator and director Elina Street in a message posted on Instagram. The limited-run series streamed for three episodes, and featured Henrietta Hudson in New York City, Pearl Bar in Houston, and Boycott Bar in Phoenix. The trailer featured snippets from the upcoming series, including testimony from bar owners and their community members.
Rina Sawayama’s ‘Hold the Girl’ – September 26, 2022
Against the backdrop of legislative attacks against queer children and adults across the U.S., Rina Sawayama released her second studio album. “This Hell” finds the singer dancing into the fire singing “Flame red, caught the moment, posing for the paparazzi / Fuck what they did to Britney, to Lady Di’, and Whitney … That Satan’s looking thirsty, not even he can hurt me.”
Cubans Vote to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage – September 25, 2022
Voters in Cuba approved a referendum legalizing same-sex marriage in the island nation. The measure passed with well over the necessary 50% needed to become law. Cuba is now one of only a handful of countries in Central America that recognize same-sex marriage, including Costa Rica and Mexico, where same-sex marriage was officially recognized this year by all of the country’s 32 states.
Canada Will Expand Inclusion In Figure Skating Competition – October 2, 2022
Skate Canada, the country’s governing body for figure skating, will allow same-sex teams to compete in top-level competitions. The rule for pairs figure skating competitions used to read, “one man and one woman,” and now reads, “two skaters.” Karen Butcher, the president of Skate Canada, explains, “This change is about removing barriers to participation in skating, and we believe it will have a significant impact in ensuring all gender identities are recognized and accepted equally and without prejudice.”
Sam Smith And Kim Petras Rank with #1 Song in the World – October 4, 2022
Kim Petras collaborated with Sam Smith on “Unholy.” The song ranked number one in the world on the Billboard Global 200 and Billboard Global Excluding U.S. charts.
Miu Miu Spring And Summer Show Break The Binary – Oct 4, 2022
The fashion world is known for being gendered. When the binary is broken, it’s usually by a queer-owned company, but one of the world’s biggest fashion houses, Miu Miu, broke the mold during Paris Fashion Week. The label’s Spring and Summer Show featured models of all genders donning skirts, shorts, and dresses, working to bring non-gendered fashion to the mainstream.
Slovenia Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage – October 4, 2022
After a 48 to 29 vote in its Parliament, Slovenia became the first country in Eastern Europe to legalize same-sex marriage. “With these changes, we are [recognizing] the rights of same-sex couples that they should have had for a long time,” said Simon Maljevac, the country’s State Secretary, following the vote.
Negroni Sbagliato… With Prosecco In It – October 10, 2022
If you were at any queer bar in the early fall, chances are you or someone you know indulged in the newly iconic queer drink of the season- a Negroni Sbagliato with a dash of Prosecco. “House of the Dragon” star Emma D’Arcy caused an eruption of queer panic on TikTok after sharing their drink of choice with costar Olivia Cooke. Whether it was D’Arcy’s smirk, pronunciation of Prosecco, or body language toward Cooke, this moment was the sexy cocktail none of us knew we were craving.
Mexico’s Largest State Approves Marriage Equality – October 12, 2022
In another win for marriage equality, Mexico’s largest state approved same-sex marriage. The congress of the State of Mexico, which includes parts of Mexico City’s metropolitan area and the surrounding region, voted to approve same-sex marriage, making the state the 29th in the country to do so. Lawmakers approved the measure by a vote of 50 for to 16 against.
Two Dead After Shooting Outside Gay Bar In Slovakian Capital – October 13, 2022
A shooting outside of a gay bar in Bratislava, Slovakia, left two people dead and another injured. The shooting occurred outside Teplaren, a gay bar in the city center, around 7 p.m. local time. The suspect was found dead by police the next morning following a manhunt. The BBC reported that the suspect had allegedly made anti-Jewish and anti-LGBTQ+ posts on social media. Local media also identified him as the son of a former far-right political candidate.
Newfest: The New York LGBTQ+ Film Festival Screens In-Person And Remotely – October 13 – 25, 2022
Newfest returned to the big screen this year, but the in-person audience weren’t the only ones enjoying the films. The hybrid edition of the festival featured over 130 LGBTQ+ stories, special events, panel conversations, and more both in-person and also streaming online. Full-length feature films were shown as well as collections of short films created for and by LGBTQ+ people.
Tegan and Sara’s Memoir ‘High School’ Adapted For TV — October 14, 2022
Canadian siblings Tegan and Sara Quin, whose music has inspired many a queer awakening, narrated their own musical and queer awakenings in 2019’s acclaimed memoir “High School.” This year, “High School” was adapted into a ‘90s-tastic eight-episode series for Amazon Freevee, with “But I’m a Cheerleader”’s Clea DuVall showrunning and 21-year-old TikTok twins Railey and Seazynn Gilliland starring.
Trans Actor Laith Ashley Cast In Taylor Swift ‘Midnights’ Music Video – October 21, 2022
Taylor Swift released a teaser trailer for her album “Midnights” featuring her in bed with transgender actor and model Laith Ashley. The scene depicts Swift and Ashley laying side by side while Swift touches Ashley’s back to reveal a rainbow of color expelled from Swift’s fingertips. Laith Ashley’s career was propelled in the mid-2010s after Laverne Cox reposted his photos on her Instagram. He then went on to model for Barneys and Diesel and was the first out trans member of RuPaul’s Drag Race pit crew.
Brittney Griner’s Appeal Rejected By Russian Court – October 26, 2022
Brittney Griner’s bid to appeal her nine-year sentence on drug charges was rejected by a Russian court. In a statement following the rejected appeal published by ESPN, Griner’s legal team expressed disappointment at the decision, saying the result was “not what we expected.” The statement alleged that the guilty verdict “contains numerous defects,” and that the team had “hoped that the court of appeal would take them into consideration.”
Same-Sex Marriage Now Recognized In All Of Mexico’s 32 States – October 28, 2022
Same-sex marriage is now legally recognized in all of Mexico’s 32 states. Lawmakers in the states of Guerrero and Tamaulipas approved same-sex marriage, the last of Mexico’s states to do so. “The whole country shines with a huge rainbow,” said Arturo Zaldívar, president of Mexico’s Supreme Court, as reported by the AP. “Live the dignity and rights of all people. Love is love.” The Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation ruled to legalize same-sex marriage in 2015, although not all of the Mexico’s states complied immediately with the ruling.
Tokyo Will Now Issue Partnership Certificates To Same-Sex Couples – November 1, 2022
Tokyo is now issuing partnership certificates to same-sex couples. According to the BBC, this partnership certificate “will allow same-sex couples to be treated the same as married couples when it comes to housing, medicine and welfare” but “it will not help with issues like adoption, inheritance and spousal visas.” Soyoka Yamamoto, an LGBTQ+ rights campaigner, was one of the first to accept her certificate with her partner, the BBC reports. She told reporters she hopes “we can accelerate efforts to create a society where the rights of sexual minorities can be protected, and made more equal.”
Miss Argentina and Miss Puerto Rico Announce Their Marriage – November 3, 2022
In a queer turn of events Miss Argentina and Miss Puerto Rico revealed their marriage on Instagram. Mariana Varela and Fabiola Valentín posted a surprise photo cuddled up outside the city courthouse in San Juan with the caption in Spanish, “After deciding to keep our relationship private, we opened the doors on a special day.” The two met at the 2020 Miss Grand International Competition in Thailand and had been secretly dating ever since. The stunning pair has truly given us the gay Miss Congeniality ending we’ve always dreamed of.
The Center’s Annual Women’s Event Celebrates 25 Years – November 5, 2022
The Center, Manhattan’s LGBTQ+ community center, hosted its 25th annual women’s event, which “honors and celebrates community members and supporters who strive to achieve equality and create a more just world for LGBTQ+ people.” The event also helped raise money for The Center to support its events and advocacy work.
Designer Harris Reed Wins Creativity Honor at the 2022 Fashion Awards – November 7, 2022
Another iconic night in fashion is the British Fashion Awards, which has long been heralded as a night of recognition for new and emerging designers and thinkers in the industry. Harris Reed, British-American fashion designer and Creative Director of French fashion brand Nina Ricci, won the Creativity Honor at this year’s awards. Reed has styled the likes of Adele, Beyoncé, and Lil Nas X, and has aimed to create fashion, make-up, and jewelry that continues to question and expand the boundaries of gender and beauty.
Julia Fox Admits She Has a ‘Gay Bone’ to Ziwe – November 16, 2022
Many of us had no clue who Julia Fox was before she became Ben Safdie’s beloved muse for Uncut Jaaaaaaaums (formally known as Uncut Gems). But she has long been and remains a fashion icon, modeling around the world for years before she became known for a small sound bite and dating Ye. Now, she’s gracing our timelines with tough-love advice about aging, dating, and living on her own TikTok account, but nothing has really had a grip on us like her telling Ziwe that she has a “gay bone.” In a trailer for Ziwe’s episode with Julia Fox, released on November 16, the Italian-American model told Ziwe that she’s been thinking of dating women and that she’s pretty sure she has a “gay bone.” We’re pretty sure we love that for her.
The ‘L’ Word: Generation Q’ Season 3 Premiere Party Is Hosted By NYC Lesbian Bar Henrietta Hudson – November 18, 2022
The infamous NYC lesbian bar teamed up with Showtime to present the premiere of The ‘L’ Word: Generation Q’ Season 3. Lesbians from all over packed the bar to see what happens to all of our favorite characters, new and old, and there was even a special appearance from Jordan Hull who plays Bette and Tina’s daughter Angie.
Five Dead And Multiple Wounded Following Deadly Shooting At Colorado Springs LGBTQ+ Nightclub – November 19, 2022
Five people were killed and at least 25 injured after a gunman opened fire at an LGBTQ+ nightclub in Colorado Springs. The suspect opened fire inside Club Q, a popular LGBTQ+ venue, just before midnight on Nov 19. He was confronted and stopped by club patrons, according to Colorado Springs police. The suspect, who has been identified as 22-year-old Anderson Lee Aldrich, was arrested on five counts of first-degree murder and five counts of hate-based crimes.
Les Dégommeuses Speak Out – November 20, 2022
Les Dégommeuses, France’s famous activist lesbian and queer soccer team, continues to be at the forefront of addressing sexism, homophobia, and other forms of violence in the world of soccer. The club asks, “Corruption, deaths on construction sites, violation of human rights, LGBTphobia, ecological disaster: what price are we still ready to pay to organize a World Cup?” After dropping banners condemning the FIFA World Cup, Les Dégommeuses hosted an event to discuss the possibility of organizing alternative, inclusive, queer and activist soccer spaces.
Human Rights Abuses Cast Shadow Over World Cup – November 20, 2022
The World Cup kicks off in Qatar amid allegations of the country’s human rights abuses, including against migrant workers and LGBTQ+ individuals. Before play began, players on multiple teams had proposed to wear “One Love” armbands to protest Qatar’s treatment of the LGBTQ+, but backed down following threats of punishment by FIFA, international soccer’s governing body.
Rumors Of A Relationship Between Dove Cameron and Veronica St – November 21, 2022
Cameron sent shockwaves through the music industry this year with her dripping-with-sapphic-energy music video for her song “Boyfriend” — certainly a lesbian anthem for our age. Her relationship status is less clear cut: gossip mags point to intimate photos of her with former co-star Veronica St as evidence of relationship, but nothing – yet – has been confirmed.
Amy Schneider Wins Jeopardy! Tournament Of Champions – November 22, 2022
Trivia whiz (and GO Woman We Love 2022) Amy Schneider won the “Jeopardy!” Tournament of Champions. Schneider was the first to win three games in the final round, besting opponents Andrew He and Sam Buttery. She had previously faced off against He a year ago in the show’s regular season, ending his five-day winning streak and beginning her own historic run as a “Jeopardy!” champion. “I was both wanting to and afraid of facing him again,” Schneider said of He in a statement posted on the gameshow’s website. “He was definitely somebody I knew was one of the top competitors in the field,” she continued. “He was someone I thought could beat me because he very nearly did before, and then did a couple of times here [in the ToC finals] as well.”
World Cup Play Interrupted By Protester Carrying Rainbow Flag – November 29, 2022
A protester interrupted play at a World Cup match between Portugal and Uruguay after he ran onto the field waving a rainbow flag. The individual was also wearing a Superman T-shirt with the words “Save Ukraine” on the front and “Respect for Iranian Woman” on the back. He was pursued and eventually caught by security, who escorted him off the field. The individual later identified himself as Mario Ferri, a social media influencer, on his platform.
‘White Lotus’ Lesbian Hotel Manager Valentina – December 5, 2022
“White Lotus” creator Mike White finally gave us what we all deserve- a badass Italian lesbian. Season 2 of ‘White Lotus’ introduced us to the stunning Sicilian hotel manager, Valentina, played by Italian actress Sabrina Impacciatore. Valentina quickly became a fan favorite after referring to Jennifer Coolidge’s character, Tanya, as “Peppa Pig.” The exploration of her sexuality was mainly one of freedom and excitement. Impacciatore admits she felt emotional with Valentina’s character arc: “I cried a lot off-camera with this character. Even now I get emotional. I love her so much.”
Russia Legalizes Expansion Of LGBTQ+ Propaganda Law – December 6, 2022
Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law that bans public displays of LGBTQ+ content and behavior, expanding the country’s 2013 “gay propaganda” law. The original law banned the display or distribution of LGBTQ+ content for minors. The new law expands these restrictions, effectively banning LGBTQ+ content for anyone regardless of age in the public realm. Before being signed into law by President Putin, the bill had passed through multiple rounds of voting in Russia’s parliament in October and November of this year. Individuals and entities could be fined thousands of dollars for violating the law.
Megan Rapinoe And Sue Bird Announce Their New Production Company – December 7, 2022
Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird, one of our favorite athlete couples, announce their plan to start a production company with the intention of addressing the coverage gap between men’s and women’s sports. Their studio will be called, “A Touch More,” and it will cover both sports and stories of revolutionaries “who shape and move culture forward.” Their first project is a series on the Iranian women’s fight to watch soccer matches.
Club Q Shooting Suspect Officially Charged With More Than 305 Counts – December 7, 2022
The suspected Club Q shooter, Anderson Lee Aldrich, was formally charged in Colorado with murder, attempted murder, assault, hate crimes, and more. Colorado’s Fourth Judicial District Attorney Michael Allen announced the charges at a hearing for which Lee Aldrich appeared in court.
Brittany Griner Freed – December 8, 2022
Brittney Griner returned home from Russia, where the WNBA star had been detained on drug charges since February. After being sentenced to over nine years in prison following a guilty verdict, she was exchanged in a prisoner swap for convicted Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout. Griner later vowed to return to the WNBA next season, and to work for the release of fellow American Paul Whelan, who remains detained in Russia.
A Tribute To Grant Wahl- December 10, 2022
Grant Wahl, sports journalist with a history of speaking truth to power in the world of soccer, died at age 48 during the Qatar World Cup. His death sparked questions about Qatar’s anti-LGBTQ+ laws that lead to Wahl being detained just days before for wearing a rainbow shirt — in solidarity with LGBTQ+ folks — to one of the matches. Wahl’s last column spoke to the mass deaths of migrant workers who constructed the World Cup stadiums. Wahl will be remembered and celebrated as a journalist who always supported women and queer folks and who demanded justice in sports.
Respect For Marriage Act Signed Into Law – December 13, 2022
President Biden signed the Respect for Marriage Act, which guarantees marriage rights for same-sex and interracial couples, into law. The bill had been proposed by lawmakers over the summer to protect marriage rights should the Supreme Court overturn the decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, the landmark cases that legalized same-sex marriage in the U.S. Before going to Biden’s desk, the legislation passed by bipartisan vote in both chambers of Congress.
Cyndi Lauper And Sam Smith Perform at the Respect for Marriage Act Signing – December 13, 2022
As many Americans celebrated the Respect for Marriage Act law, which protects same-sex and interracial marriage under federal law, Cyndi Lauper and Sam Smith provided the soundtrack. The pair performed “True Colors” and “Stay With Me” at the signing ceremony.
Club Q Survivors Condemn Extremism Before House Committee – December 14, 2022
Survivors of the massacre at Club Q testified before members of the House Oversight and Reform Committee. Speaking before the committee were Matthew Haynes, the owner and founder of Club Q, bartender Michael Anderson, and club patron James Slaugh, who’d been shot along with his boyfriend and sister that fateful night. “Hate rhetoric from politicians, religious leaders, and media outlets is at the root of the attacks like at Club Q,” Slaugh said in his testimony, “and it needs to stop now.”
Vermont’s First Out Transgender Lawmaker, Taylor Small, Gets Engaged At White House – December 19, 2022
Vermont’s first out transgender lawmaker (and Woman We Love 2021) Taylor Small is engaged. Small announced her engagement to partner Carsen Russell on Instagram Friday. Russell proposed to Small on the lawn of the White House, after the two traveled to Washington D.C. for Biden’s signing of the Respect for Marriage Act.
Eureka O’Hara Comes Out As A Trans Woman – December 23, 2022
Eureka O’Hara came out as a proud trans woman. The “Drag Race” alum and star of the HBO documentary series “We’re Here –” came out in an exclusive interview with People. “I’m blessed now because I know who I am without question,” Eureka said in the interview.
Mira Bellwether, Creator of ‘F****** Trans Women,’ Dies – December 25, 2022
Mira Bellwether, the author and creating behind the zine “Fucking Trans Women,” died at 40 years old due to lung cancer. Her partner, Callan Molinari, shared the news on her private Twitter account and in a message posted to Bellwether’s GoFundMe. “This is an update I wish I wasn’t making; after a series of declines and escalations – a two week regular hospital stay leading to a week in the icu intubated on a ventilator and culminating in a massive incompatible-with-life stroke, Mira passed early sunday morning, December 25th,” Molinari wrote. Bellwether is best known for creating “Fucking Trans Women,” a how-to sex guide for pre-op and non-op trans women, first published in 2010. Although Bellwether produced only one issue, the zine is considered groundbreaking in its depiction of trans women’s sexuality and sexual expression.
Golf Legend Kathy Whitworth Passes Away At Age 83 – December 26, 2022
Kathy Whitworth, the winningest golfer in history, died on Christmas Eve at the age of 83. “It is with a heart full of love that we let everyone know of the passing of the winningest Golf Professional ever, Kathy Whitworth,” her long-time partner Bettye Odle, said in a statement released by the LPGA. “Kathy passed suddenly Saturday night celebrating Christmas Eve with family and friends.”
