Author: Andy Lalwani

Lady Gaga Honors Resilience in Super Bowl LIX Pregame Performance

Lady Gaga opened the 2025 Super Bowl LIX pregame with a poignant tribute to resilience and unity, delivering a heartfelt performance of her 2022 song “Hold My Hand” from Top Gun: Maverick. Dressed in an ethereal all-white ensemble, the multi-talented performer sang while playing the piano in front of a crowd on Bourbon Street, a symbolic location for both New Orleans and the nation as a whole.

The moving performance kicked off the evening’s pregame show, which was dedicated to honoring the strength of communities impacted by tragedy across the country. Gaga’s appearance was a surprise to many, as her performance had not been previously announced. Her song, which was nominated for an Academy Award, was chosen as a fitting tribute to the themes of perseverance and unity highlighted throughout the segment.

Before Gaga took the stage, Michael Strahan, co-host of the pregame show, introduced a somber opening segment. He and former New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady walked down Bourbon Street in New Orleans, discussing the resilience of the city following a terror attack earlier in the year. Strahan spoke of the collective strength of communities and how, when tragedy strikes, people come together. “When tragedy strikes, we don’t break, we come together. We rise above and never let evil win,” Brady said.

The pregame show continued with a tribute to various cities affected by recent tragedies, from New Orleans to Los Angeles. Strahan emphasized that, despite the challenges faced, Americans continue to show resilience, never losing hope. “We come together because that’s who we are and that’s what we do,” Strahan added, speaking to the nation’s spirit of unity.

As the camera panned over the crowd, which included first responders, military personnel, and locals wearing “NOLA Strong” shirts, Gaga’s performance began, providing a powerful moment of reflection. Her somber yet inspiring rendition of “Hold My Hand” resonated with many, particularly in the wake of difficult times in cities across the country.

In the days leading up to the Super Bowl, Lady Gaga had been in the spotlight for another major career milestone. Just days before the pregame performance, she released her new single, “Abracadabra,” from her upcoming album Mayhem. The track premiered during a commercial break at the 2025 Grammy Awards, following weeks of anticipation surrounding the singer’s seventh studio album. Mayhem is set for release on March 7, 2025, and fans can expect a full tracklist to be unveiled soon.

The night’s pregame festivities continued with a star-studded lineup of performers. Jon Batiste delivered a moving rendition of the National Anthem, followed by Ledisi’s powerful performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle joined forces for a soulful version of “America the Beautiful.” Additionally, Harry Connick Jr. teamed up with renowned jazz trumpeter Terence Blanchard for a tribute performance, while the Soul Rebels and the Original Pinettes added their own musical contributions to the celebration.

Super Bowl LIX’s pregame entertainment was a memorable mix of musical tributes, honoring both the resilience of communities across the country and the spirit of unity that transcends sports. Lady Gaga’s performance, in particular, left a lasting impression, offering a moment of reflection on the power of music to bring people together in times of hardship.

As the world turned its attention to the big game, the pregame show reminded viewers of the importance of community, healing, and strength in the face of adversity. The performances showcased a diverse array of talent, each adding to the emotional depth of the night. Lady Gaga’s moving tribute served as the perfect kickoff to a Super Bowl celebration filled with heartfelt moments and unity.

February 9, 2025
Chappell Roan Responds to Bold Online Criticism for Grammys Speech: ‘Let’s Talk’

Chappell Roan, the breakout pop star known for her hit “Pink Pony Club,” has hit back at a critical op-ed written by music industry veteran Jeff Rabhan in The Hollywood Reporter. In the piece, Rabhan criticized Roan’s comments made during her acceptance speech at the 2025 Grammy Awards, calling her remarks “condescending” and dismissing her as “too green and too uninformed.”

The controversy began when Roan, accepting the Grammy Award for Best New Artist, used her platform to advocate for struggling artists. She highlighted the difficulties of up-and-coming musicians, specifically mentioning how she lost access to health care after being dropped by a record label and calling on the music industry to better support emerging talent with fair wages and adequate healthcare benefits.

In his op-ed, Rabhan took issue with Roan’s comments, labeling her “Chappell Groan” in a dismissive tone and suggesting that she was uninformed about the complexities of the music business. He also challenged her to “put your money where your mouth is,” questioning whether she was truly committed to the cause of supporting artists.

Roan, however, quickly accepted Rabhan’s challenge. In an Instagram Story post, she called on Rabhan to match her $25,000 donation to struggling artists, writing, “Hey @jeffrabhan wanna match me $25k to donate to struggling dropped artists? My publicist is @biz3publicity. Let’s talk.”

In a subsequent post, Roan shared a selfie and added, “Will keep everyone updated on the much-awaited @jeffrabhan response!! And I will show receipts of the donations.” She further elaborated, “Mr. Rabhan, I love how in the article you said ‘put your money where your mouth is.’ Genius!!! Let’s link and build together and see if you can do the same.”

Roan’s response has sparked significant attention, especially with her bold challenge to Rabhan. It also underscores her ongoing commitment to advocating for greater support for emerging musicians who often struggle with the same issues Roan faced before finding success.

In addition to calling out Rabhan, Roan used her platform to spotlight several lesser-known artists she believes deserve more attention. In a series of Instagram Stories, she recommended several rising stars, highlighting their work and encouraging her followers to listen and support them.

Among the artists Roan spotlighted were Hemlock Springs (@hemlockesprings on Instagram), a musician with a unique and haunting style; Sarah Kinsley (@sarahkinsleyd on Instagram), whose emotionally charged music has earned her a growing fanbase; and Devon Again (@trashytrashy on Instagram), who brings an innovative and experimental sound to the indie scene. Roan also highlighted Baby Storme, an artist whose work blends pop and alternative influences to create a distinct musical identity.

“Here are some artists that deserve more love and a bigger platform,” Roan wrote, sharing links to the musicians’ music on popular streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. By recommending these up-and-coming talents, Roan continues her advocacy for greater recognition and support for lesser-known musicians who may not have the same level of industry backing as more established stars.

The confrontation between Roan and Rabhan highlights a larger issue within the music industry: the financial and emotional struggles faced by emerging artists. For many musicians, the path to success is fraught with obstacles, including lack of access to healthcare, financial instability, and the constant pressure to stay relevant in an industry that often prioritizes big-name artists over newcomers. Roan’s comments at the Grammys, and her subsequent actions, serve as a call to action for the industry to reconsider how it treats and supports its rising stars.

As the music world watches this unfolding exchange, it remains to be seen how Rabhan will respond to Roan’s challenge. Will he match her $25,000 donation and contribute to the cause of supporting struggling artists? Roan has made it clear that she is ready and willing to put her money where her mouth is, and she is eager to hold industry figures accountable for their role in supporting the next generation of musicians.

Roan’s advocacy, paired with her rising success in the music industry, continues to make her a powerful voice for change, and it is clear that her impact extends far beyond her music.

February 7, 2025
FX Comedy Series ‘English Teacher’ Renewed for Season 2 Amid Controversy

FX has announced the renewal of its comedy series English Teacher for a second season. The show, which first premiered on FX and Hulu in September 2024, quickly garnered critical acclaim for its unique premise and strong performances. Created by and starring Brian Jordan Alvarez, English Teacher has received praise for its clever writing and sharp humor, cementing its place as one of the standout comedies of 2024.

“We are thrilled with the success of English Teacher and are excited to bring another season to our audience,” said Nick Grad, president of FX Entertainment. “The series was one of the most critically acclaimed new shows of 2024, and we are grateful to the producers, writers, cast, directors, and crew for the show’s creative excellence. We look forward to continuing the story in season two.”

Alongside Alvarez, the series features a talented cast including Stephanie Koenig, Enrico Colantoni, Sean Patton, and Carmen Christopher. The show follows Evan Marquez, a high school teacher in Austin, Texas, who navigates the complexities of personal, professional, and political challenges in his day-to-day life. Over the course of the first season, Evan juggles his relationships with his students and colleagues while grappling with the question of whether it is possible to truly be oneself in a professional environment.

Alvarez not only stars in the series but also serves as an executive producer, alongside Paul Simms, Jonathan Krisel, Dave King, Kathryn Dean, Jake Bender, and Zach Dunn. The series is produced by FX Productions.

Despite the positive reviews and the renewal announcement, English Teacher has found itself at the center of controversy due to serious allegations made against Alvarez. In August 2024, Jon Ebeling, a former friend and co-star of Alvarez from the 2016 web series The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo, publicly accused Alvarez of sexual assault via an Instagram story. Ebeling expanded on the accusations in an article published by New York Magazine in December 2024, in which he also claimed that English Teacher star and writer Stephanie Koenig played a role in maintaining a toxic dynamic between him and Alvarez.

In response to the allegations, an FX spokesperson stated, “We reviewed the allegations presented to us by another media outlet prior to the show’s launch. Mr. Ebeling never reached out to us with any concerns. We will have no further comment at this time.” The network did not address the ongoing controversy or Ebeling’s claims in its announcement of the show’s renewal.

Despite the legal and public challenges surrounding Alvarez, English Teacher has maintained a strong following, with many fans and critics praising the show’s honest exploration of workplace dynamics, identity, and relationships. Alvarez’s portrayal of Evan, a character struggling with balancing his personal beliefs with his professional responsibilities, has been particularly lauded for its depth and relatability.

The first season of English Teacher also explored themes of political correctness, societal expectations, and the pressures of being a teacher in a modern high school environment, where personal opinions can often clash with institutional norms. The series has been commended for tackling these issues with humor and a sharp, critical eye.

The renewal of English Teacher for a second season comes as the show has developed a dedicated fan base and become a notable part of FX’s growing slate of original comedies. As the second season moves forward, viewers can expect more of the same witty dialogue, engaging character arcs, and explorations of difficult social and personal topics.

For now, fans of English Teacher will have to wait for further details regarding the upcoming season, which is expected to continue its deep dive into the life of Evan Marquez and the ever-complicated world of teaching. With the renewal of the series, FX appears committed to continuing the show’s unique brand of humor and its nuanced take on contemporary issues.

The renewal news also brings new attention to the ongoing conversation about the allegations against Alvarez, which could continue to shape public perception of both the actor and the series. However, it remains to be seen how these developments will affect the show’s future and its relationship with audiences.

February 7, 2025
Fans Wonder if Former ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ Star Dan Benson Is Actually Closing His OnlyFans Account

Former Wizards of Waverly Place star Dan Benson has announced that he is stepping away from his adult entertainment career by shutting down his OnlyFans account, a decision he made after reflecting on his past actions and personal motivations. Benson, who became widely known for his role as Zeke Beakerman on the Disney Channel show, opened up about his choice in a recent TikTok video that has since been deleted.

Benson’s venture into adult content started in 2022 after private photos of him were leaked online. Initially, he turned to OnlyFans as a way to regain control of the narrative and support his financial needs, including paying medical bills for his elderly dog. However, in the TikTok post, Benson admitted that, after several years in the adult industry, the experience had started to take a toll on him, leading him to reconsider his path forward.

“I think I’m done,” Benson said in the video. “When I made the decision to start an OnlyFans page, I thought I was doing it for the right reasons. I was doing it to support financially my elderly dog that needed a lot of financial help with his medical bills. I was tired of being so poor and feeling like I was being taken advantage of. I don’t know. I think after years of doing this, it’s starting to weigh on me and I’m going to pull away for a while and take some time to reflect.”

The 37-year-old actor, who has gained a significant following on social media since his departure from the Disney Channel spotlight, went on to express his gratitude for his fans’ support. He also hinted that he may explore returning to acting or seeking a more traditional job. However, given that Wizards of Waverly Place has been rebooted with many of its original cast members, it seems unlikely that Benson would reprise his role, especially given his adult content history. He has previously acknowledged that Disney, which maintains a family-friendly image, would likely not welcome his return due to his adult film career.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported me this whole time,” Benson continued. “I might go back to acting. I might just go and try and get a normal job and disappear. Just be a normal person. I don’t really know. I hope I can remove some of the stuff that is already out there. So if you’re thinking about doing this, just be thoughtful, because I know it’s going to be really hard.”

Although Benson has made the decision to shut down his OnlyFans, as of February 6, his account remained active. However, he has since continued to engage with his audience on other platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), where he posted a spicy video just days after his announcement. It appears that while he’s stepping away from adult content, Benson is not completely disappearing from the public eye just yet.

Benson’s journey into the adult entertainment industry has been a controversial one, especially given his former Disney Channel fame. Many fans were shocked to learn that the actor, known for his wholesome role on Wizards of Waverly Place, had started creating adult content online. However, Benson has repeatedly emphasized that his decision was financially motivated, driven by the need to support his family, and that he never anticipated the personal and public challenges that would follow.

Now, as he steps away from the adult industry, Benson is reflecting on the impact his choices have had on his life and his career. It remains to be seen what direction he will take next, but for now, he seems focused on stepping back and considering his future options, whether they involve a return to acting, pursuing a “normal” job, or continuing to live a more private life away from the public eye.

In the coming months, fans may get a better sense of what Benson’s next steps will be as he takes the time to regroup and reflect.

February 7, 2025
Museum Adds ‘Mature Content’ Warning to Exhibit with Painting of Two Cowboys Kissing

Two queer artists of color are speaking out after the Amon Carter Museum of American Art in Fort Worth, Texas, placed a “mature content” warning on an exhibition featuring their work. The exhibition, titled Cowboy, includes a multidisciplinary installation by artists Rafa Esparza and Fabian Guerrero. While the exhibit does not contain any explicit sexual images, the artwork features gay representation, which the artists believe is the source of the controversy.

Esparza and Guerrero’s piece, titled Querías Norte, is part of the Cowboy exhibition, which aims to challenge traditional portrayals of the American cowboy. At the center of their installation is Esparza’s painting al Tempo, which depicts two dark-skinned men in cowboy hats sharing a kiss while dancing together. Both men are fully clothed, and the image focuses on their emotional connection rather than any explicit content.

The Cowboy exhibition, which includes works by 28 artists, reexamines the mythology of the cowboy, exploring themes of masculinity, gender, and identity. The museum’s press release for the exhibition highlights its goal to disrupt the stereotype of the cowboy as a White, cisgender male figure, presenting a more diverse range of interpretations across different communities. The show seeks to reflect a broader understanding of the cowboy and what it represents in modern culture.

Despite the exhibition’s inclusive mission, the museum initially faced controversy soon after the exhibit opened on September 28, 2023. According to reports from the Fort Worth Reporter, the museum temporarily closed the exhibition with no explanation. When the exhibition reopened, a “mature content” warning sign was placed at the entrance, along with a QR code allowing visitors to preview the artwork before entering.

The museum’s decision to issue the warning, without providing specific details about which works it considered to be “mature content,” has sparked criticism. Notably, the museum did not issue similar warnings for other parts of the exhibit that feature nudity or violent imagery. Texas art publication Glasstire reported in October that the museum also removed promotional banners and billboards advertising the Cowboy exhibition. Furthermore, the museum reportedly canceled several family-oriented programs and events that were originally planned around the exhibit. As of late January, signage advertising Cowboy was absent from the museum’s exterior, and the exhibition is scheduled to run through March 23, 2025.

While the museum has not disclosed the specific works that prompted the content warning, sources within the institution suggested that complaints regarding the sexual identity depicted in the exhibit contributed to the decision. During a Zoom meeting with the museum’s curators, Esparza and Guerrero were told that some museum visitors had expressed discomfort with the LGBTQ+ content of the exhibition. Staff members at the museum reportedly expressed surprise at the decision to close the exhibit temporarily and relaunch it with the content warning.

A museum spokesperson issued a statement acknowledging the controversy, explaining that the decision to add the warning was made to “give visitors a chance to preview the works in advance.” The museum emphasized that it strives to consider community feedback and suggested that the changes were made in response to concerns raised by visitors. Additionally, the museum indicated that some family and homeschool events related to the exhibition had been adjusted to reflect the feedback.

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Esparza, in an interview with KERA, called the content warning “a form of censorship,” pointing out that the decision seemed to target their artwork simply because it portrayed two men dancing together. He questioned why a depiction of a Black cowboy or a woman riding a horse would not warrant a similar warning, calling the situation absurd. “What would it feel like for an artist if someone came in and said, ‘Hey, I’d love to invite you to see the show, but I have to warn you, you’re going to see a painting of a Black cowboy,’” Esparza remarked during an artist talk at the museum.

Guerrero echoed Esparza’s sentiments, stating that museums should create space for queer joy and celebration, especially when the content of their work is not harmful. “Our project is just two men dancing together, and there’s no harm in that,” he said. Guerrero also pointed out that museums frequently display works that deal with themes of slavery and colonization, yet queer narratives and expressions of love are often relegated to the margins.

The decision by the Amon Carter Museum has sparked a larger conversation about the role of museums in representing diverse identities and the balance between community sensitivities and artistic freedom. As museums continue to navigate issues of representation, it remains to be seen how institutions will handle works that challenge traditional notions of gender, sexuality, and race in the future.

For now, Esparza and Guerrero’s artwork, along with the rest of the Cowboy exhibition, continues to be on display at the museum, serving as a reminder of the complexities surrounding representation in contemporary art and culture.

February 7, 2025
J.K. Rowling Slams ‘Left’ Over Trump’s Executive Order on Women’s Sports

J.K. Rowling, the British author best known for creating the Harry Potter series, took to social media on Wednesday to voice her disapproval of those advocating for the inclusion of transgender women in women’s sports. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Rowling shared a photo of former U.S. President Donald Trump signing the “No Men in Women’s Sports” executive order, surrounded by applauding female athletes. The signing took place on National Girls and Women in Sports Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the achievements of women in sports and advocating for equal opportunities for female athletes.

In her post, Rowling directed a sharp message to “the left,” claiming that their efforts to allow transgender women—biological males who identify as female—to compete in women’s sports had contributed to a harmful shift in society. “Congratulations to every single person on the left who’s been campaigning to destroy women’s and girls’ rights,” Rowling wrote. “Without you, there’d be no images like this.”

The tweet was accompanied by a critical tone, as the author suggested that the push to allow transgender women in women’s sports had undermined women’s rights and safety. Rowling, who has been vocal about her views on the subject, continued her critique in another post, rejecting the argument that transgender inclusion affects only a small fraction of the population. “Why do you care about a tiny fraction of the population?” she remarked, dismissing the line as “utterly ridiculous.”

Rowling’s stance on the issue has been clear for years, as she has consistently supported the notion of keeping biological males out of women’s sports. The Harry Potter author argued that the promotion of gender ideology has led to a significant erosion of fundamental rights, including freedom of speech, scientific truth, and protections for women and children. “Gender ideology has undermined freedom of speech, scientific truth, gay rights, and women’s and girls’ safety, privacy and dignity,” she wrote. “It’s also caused irreparable physical damage to vulnerable kids. Nobody voted for it, the vast majority of people disagree with it, yet it has been imposed, top down, by politicians, healthcare bodies, academia, sections of the media, celebrities and even the police.”

The author’s post suggested that those advocating for gender inclusivity in sports and beyond had been misled or were ignoring the negative consequences of such policies. “This movement has impacted society in disastrous ways,” Rowling said. “If you had any sense, you’d be quietly deleting every trace of activist mantras, ad hominem attacks, false equivalence and circular arguments from your X feeds.”

In addition to her views on women’s sports, Rowling also made headlines last year when she criticized the BBC’s decision to award its Women’s Footballer of the Year award to Zambian soccer player Barbra Banda. Banda had previously withdrawn from the Zambian squad for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after failing to meet sex eligibility requirements. However, she was allowed to compete in the Paris Olympics and later became the second-leading scorer in the U.S. National Women’s Soccer League.

Rowling took to social media to express her outrage, stating, “Presumably the BBC decided this was more time efficient than going door to door to spit directly in women’s faces.”

Beyond her views on sports, Rowling has faced significant backlash for her outspoken criticism of transgender issues, particularly in relation to the Scottish Hate Crime Act. Signed into law last year, the legislation introduced a new crime of “stirring up hatred” against any of the protected groups covered by the bill, including transgender individuals. Rowling, a vocal critic of the law, has repeatedly expressed concern that it infringes on free speech and places limits on people’s ability to express their views on gender. She even challenged Scottish authorities to arrest her for calling “a man a man.”

In previous social media posts, Rowling also highlighted several instances in which male criminals claimed to be transgender in order to be housed in female prisons. She cited examples of male criminals convicted of serious offenses, including child sexual assault, who had been allowed to identify as women before serving their sentences. The author used these examples to argue that transgender inclusion policies posed a threat to women’s safety.

The issue of transgender inclusion in sports has been a contentious topic worldwide, with both sides of the debate fiercely defending their positions. Critics of transgender women competing in women’s sports argue that it creates an unfair advantage, given the physiological differences between men and women. Supporters of transgender rights, however, maintain that exclusion from sports is discriminatory and harmful to transgender individuals.

Rowling’s stance on this issue has earned her both support and condemnation. While she has found an audience of supporters who share her concerns about the impact of gender ideology on women’s rights, she has also faced significant backlash from the LGBTQ+ community and allies who accuse her of transphobia. Despite the controversy, Rowling remains an active and vocal participant in the debate, particularly on social media platforms like X, where she has continued to share her views on the subject.

As the debate over transgender rights in sports continues, Rowling’s comments are likely to fuel further conversations about the intersection of gender, equality, and fairness in athletics.

February 6, 2025
Google Scraps Diversity Hiring Targets and Reviews DEI Programs Amid Growing Backlash

Tech giant Google is ending its diversity hiring targets and reviewing its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, becoming the latest U.S. company to scale back or eliminate such programs.

The decision comes after years of public commitment to diversity initiatives following the murder of George Floyd in 2020, which sparked nationwide protests and calls for racial justice. At the time, Google announced it would set goals to increase “leadership representation of underrepresented groups,” particularly among Black and Latino communities. Approximately 96% of Google’s U.S.-based leaders were white or Asian, and about three-quarters of global leadership were men. The company aimed to change this by setting aspirational hiring targets to boost diversity within its workforce.

Between 2021 and 2024, the company provided regular updates on its progress, stating its commitment to integrating DEI principles into everything it does. Google made it clear in annual reports that it sought to create a workforce that better reflected the diversity of the users it served.

However, a noticeable shift occurred in Google’s latest report released on February 5. The line about integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into the company’s ethos was absent, signaling a significant change in direction.

In a company-wide email, Google’s Chief People Officer Fiona Cicconi confirmed that the company would no longer set specific hiring targets for improving workforce diversity. “In 2020, we set aspirational hiring goals and focused on growing our offices outside California and New York to improve representation,” Cicconi wrote. “We’ll continue to invest in states across the U.S. and in many countries globally, but in the future, we will no longer have aspirational goals.”

This move marks a shift in Google’s stance, and the company has indicated that it will now review DEI programs, policies, and grants that may pose risks or fail to deliver the intended results. The company’s decision follows similar actions by other major corporations, such as Amazon and Meta, which recently scaled back or eliminated their DEI initiatives due to changes in the legal and political landscape.

Google’s decision has been widely interpreted as a response to right-wing pressure, particularly from those who have criticized corporate DEI efforts. The company is reportedly considering recent executive orders from former President Donald Trump, which targeted DEI initiatives within the federal government.

Despite eliminating hiring targets, Google has pledged to continue supporting resource groups for minorities within the company. These employee-led groups are designed to provide support and advocacy for various communities and currently include 17 different groups with more than 50,000 members.

“We’re committed to creating a workplace where all our employees can succeed and have equal opportunities, and over the past year we’ve been reviewing our programs designed to help us get there,” a Google spokesperson said in a statement. “Our teams are also evaluating changes required following recent court decisions and executive orders on this topic.”

Parul Koul, president of the Alphabet Workers Union (AWU), strongly criticized the changes, calling them “a real attack on gains that workers have made in the tech industry through movements fighting against racism, gender and LGBTQ discrimination, going all the way back to the civil rights movement.” Koul further described the move as part of a troubling trend in tech companies, where there is a growing anti-worker, right-wing influence.

“We are committed to fighting against this trend,” Koul added.

Google’s decision to scale back its DEI initiatives is part of a broader shift in corporate America. Amazon and Meta also made similar moves in January, eliminating their DEI policies. Meta attributed its decision to changes in the “legal and policy landscape” and announced that it would stop moderating comments on topics such as immigration and gender, while ending independent fact-checking in favor of a community notes system. Amazon, on the other hand, said it was “winding down outdated programs and materials,” emphasizing a new focus on programs with proven outcomes.

Several other major companies, including Ford, Lowe’s, Walmart, Harley-Davidson, and Jack Daniel’s, have distanced themselves from DEI initiatives in response to pressure from conservative campaigners, including pundit Robby Starbuck.

As more companies reconsider or abandon their diversity programs, the future of DEI initiatives in corporate America remains uncertain, with ongoing debates about their effectiveness and the political ramifications surrounding them. The move by Google, one of the largest tech companies in the world, signals a growing divide in how corporations approach issues of diversity, inclusion, and equality.

February 6, 2025
Elton John and Brandi Carlile Announce Collaborative Album ‘Who Believes In Angels?’

Elton John and Brandi Carlile have teamed up for a highly anticipated album, Who Believes In Angels?, set to be released on April 4. The Oscar-nominated duo, who previously earned a nod for their collaboration on the track “Never Too Late” from the documentary Elton John: Never Too Late, have crafted a 10-track album together, blending their iconic musical talents.

The first single, the title track Who Believes In Angels?, was released on February 5, 2025, giving fans an early taste of the upcoming project. Along with the album, the pair will perform a special one-off concert titled An Evening With Elton John & Brandi Carlile, which will take place on March 26 at The London Palladium. Described as a “one-night-only event,” the concert will feature both performance and storytelling, offering fans an intimate experience with the artists.

Tickets for the event will be available exclusively to fans who pre-order the album, giving them the chance to attend what promises to be a memorable occasion.

The album is the result of a unique collaboration not only between John and Carlile but also with producer Andrew Wyatt and John’s long-time lyricist Bernie Taupin. The creative team behind the album shares a nomination for Best Original Song at the Oscars for their work on John’s documentary. The nominated track will also appear on the upcoming album.

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John expressed excitement about the album’s creation, telling Variety, “Between the four of us, what went down in the studio is pretty magical. And you know, I don’t wanna let cats out of the bag, but you ain’t heard nothing yet. There’s something coming your way which is gonna blow your a** off.”

The album was recorded in just 20 days in October 2023 at L.A.’s Sunset Sound Studio. In addition to John and Carlile, the album features contributions from some well-known musicians, including Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, bassist Pino Palladino, and guitarist Josh Klinghoffer, who has also toured with Pearl Jam.

In addition to the album, fans can look forward to a short film offering a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Who Believes In Angels?. The film, captured through static cameras placed around the studio, documents the entire creative process — including moments of creative struggle, breakthroughs, and emotional highs and lows. The raw footage offers fans an unprecedented, candid view into the challenging yet rewarding journey of creating the album.

Ahead of the release, Carlile, a 11-time Grammy Award winner, shared her excitement about the collaboration. Reflecting on her long admiration for John, Carlile wrote, “I’ve been singing together with him for basically my whole life – he just didn’t know it.” She continued, “I’ve been working — and dreaming — my way towards this moment since I was 11 years old. Every album I’ve ever made has carried Elton’s name in the liner notes, my quiet thank you to the artist without whom I would have never written a song. It was impossible to imagine that one day, he’d not only be my hero, but probably my best friend. In some way though, I think maybe I knew?”

Who Believes In Angels? promises to showcase a deep, emotional connection between the two artists, built on years of mutual respect and admiration. Carlile has frequently cited John as a major influence in her own music career, and this collaboration marks a culmination of their shared musical history.

The album’s release on April 4 will be followed by the highly anticipated concert, An Evening With Elton John & Brandi Carlile, which will take place at The London Palladium on March 26. This special evening will offer fans a rare opportunity to see the two artists perform together in an intimate setting, blending their musical talents with personal stories from their respective careers.

Who Believes In Angels? will undoubtedly be a standout release for both artists, combining the timeless sound of Elton John with Brandi Carlile’s powerful vocals and emotional songwriting. Fans can expect an album filled with heartfelt tracks and a glimpse into the powerful creative process that shaped this collaboration.

Mark your calendars for April 4, when Who Believes In Angels? will be available for purchase, and make sure to pre-order for a chance to attend the exclusive concert event next month.

February 6, 2025
Rep. Nancy Mace Repeatedly Spews Anti-Trans Slur During House Hearing: ‘I Don’t Really Care’

Rep. Gerry Connolly has requested a formal inquiry into Rep. Nancy Mace’s use of a derogatory slur toward the transgender community during a House Oversight and Government Reform hearing on February 5. The Republican congresswoman’s remarks were made amid her ongoing controversial statements and attacks on the transgender community, as well as on fellow congresswoman Sarah McBride.

During the hearing, Mace asked a panel of experts whether it was in the best interest of American citizens to fund a $2 million program in Guatemala, which she described as funding “t****ies” in reference to gender-affirming surgeries. Her comments sparked immediate backlash from several members of the House, including Connolly, who expressed concern over Mace’s use of a term widely recognized as a slur within the LGBTQ+ and transgender communities.

“Does this advance the interest of American citizens — paying for t****ies in Guatemala to the tune of $2 million?” Mace asked the panel. She went on to criticize U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) programs, questioning whether such expenditures were beneficial to the American public.

Following Mace’s questioning, Connolly, a Democrat from Virginia, raised the issue of decorum, particularly the use of the derogatory term. “The gentlelady has used a phrase that is considered a slur in the LGBTQ community and the trans community,” Connolly said, addressing the committee chair, Rep. James Comer.

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Connolly sought to continue his point, but Mace interrupted him, which led to her repeating the slur three times. “I don’t really care,” Mace responded defiantly. “You want penises in women’s bathrooms and I’m not gonna have it. No, thank you. It’s disgusting.”

Connolly, visibly frustrated, continued: “To me, a slur is a slur. And here in the committee, a level of decorum requires us to try consciously to avoid slurs.” He emphasized that such language was unnecessary in a policy debate, saying, “We can debate policy discussion without offending human beings who are fellow citizens.”

Connolly then formally requested a parliamentary inquiry into whether Mace’s remarks violated the committee’s standards for decorum. “I would ask as a parliamentary inquiry whether the use of that phrase is not, in fact, a violation of the decorum rules,” he said, underscoring the importance of respectful dialogue in government proceedings.

Mace, however, rejected Connolly’s request, stating, “I’m not going to be counselled by a man over men and women’s spaces or men who have mental health issues dressing as women.”

Chairman Comer, who was overseeing the hearing, responded that he was not sufficiently informed about LGBTQ+ terminology or the specifics of anti-trans slurs and would “look into” the matter further. He did not make any immediate judgment about the appropriateness of Mace’s language.

The exchange quickly drew attention and condemnation from advocacy groups and LGBTQ+ rights organizations. Critics argue that Mace’s repeated use of the slur contributes to the harmful rhetoric surrounding transgender people, a community that already faces significant discrimination and marginalization.

Mace’s comments are part of a broader, ongoing culture war in the U.S. involving transgender rights. The congresswoman has previously drawn criticism for her remarks on trans issues, particularly her opposition to the inclusion of transgender women in women’s sports and her confrontations with trans advocates like McBride.

As a result of the hearing and the request for inquiry, calls for accountability have intensified. Advocates stress the importance of lawmakers using inclusive language when discussing vulnerable communities, particularly in official legislative settings. Connolly’s actions were widely praised by LGBTQ+ groups who argue that members of Congress should maintain a standard of respect and dignity when addressing all citizens, including transgender individuals.

The episode is a continuation of a broader national debate on the rights of transgender individuals, particularly in the realms of sports, healthcare, and social acceptance. While Mace’s remarks and the subsequent inquiry have ignited a political firestorm, they also underscore the ongoing cultural and political battles over transgender rights in the United States.

As of now, it remains unclear what actions will be taken in response to the parliamentary inquiry. However, the incident has sparked renewed conversations about the language used by elected officials when addressing sensitive issues surrounding the LGBTQ+ community. The outcome of this inquiry could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.

February 6, 2025
Trump Signs Executive Order Blocking Federal Funds for Schools Allowing Transgender Women in Sports

Former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at restricting transgender women and girls from participating in sports designated for cisgender females. The order blocks federal funding for schools that allow transgender athletes to compete on women’s sports teams and mandates that the Department of Justice take legal action against institutions permitting such participation.

The executive order also outlines a plan to convene representatives from major athletic organizations and governing bodies to create guidelines that would prevent transgender women from competing in women’s sports. Additionally, the order threatens to bar cisgender American athletes from international sports competitions if those events permit transgender athletes to compete alongside cisgender athletes.

The move continues Trump’s track record of opposing transgender rights, especially in the realm of education and athletics. The order argues that transgender women competing in women’s sports is “demeaning, unfair, and dangerous,” and claims it deprives cisgender women of fair opportunities to compete. It also states that transgender female participation in female sports is a violation of women’s dignity, safety, and privacy.

The order underscores that “the President’s interpretation of the law governs,” citing the desire to protect the integrity of women’s sports. The policy argues that the inclusion of trans women in female athletic spaces results in the “endangerment, humiliation, and silencing” of cisgender women and girls. It continues, “It shall also be the policy of the United States to oppose male competitive participation in women’s sports more broadly, as a matter of safety, fairness, dignity, and truth.”

This directive marks the latest development in the ongoing debate over transgender rights in sports, which has divided lawmakers and advocacy groups. Trump’s executive order takes direct aim at policies implemented during the administration of President Joe Biden, which took a more inclusive stance on transgender rights. Under Biden, Title IX, the landmark civil rights law prohibiting sex-based discrimination in education, was interpreted to protect transgender students from discrimination.

In contrast, Trump’s order attempts to reinterpret Title IX in a manner that would deny the existence of transgender people in female athletics. Trump’s position directly opposes the previous administration’s understanding of the law, effectively reversing protections that had been extended to transgender individuals.

Despite the Biden administration’s inclusive stance, there have been no federal guidelines issued to regulate transgender participation in sports at the K-12 or collegiate levels. In April 2023, the Biden administration proposed a rule allowing schools to limit the participation of transgender athletes, while ensuring that outright bans would be prohibited. However, this proposal was rescinded in December 2024, with the administration stating that the issue was legally complex and too contentious to pursue further.

Trump’s new order directs the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of Justice to take punitive actions against schools that violate the directive, including the possibility of lawsuits or the withholding of federal funds. The order also targets educational institutions that permit transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports, and further mandates that any such policies be revoked.

Furthermore, the order calls for a meeting of major athletic organizations within 60 days, urging them to adopt anti-transgender policies, particularly regarding transgender women’s participation in female sports categories. The order also requests that state attorneys general develop best practices for ensuring “equal opportunities” for women in sports, with a focus on the alleged harm caused by the inclusion of transgender athletes.

Trump’s directive also addresses international athletics, asking the U.S. government to encourage other nations to adopt anti-transgender policies and pressuring the International Olympic Committee to ban transgender athletes from competing in future Olympic Games.

In comments made prior to signing the order, Trump claimed that the executive action would prevent “men” from “beating up, injuring, and cheating our women and our girls.” He cited unverified claims that transgender athletes had accumulated over 3,500 victories in women’s competitions, though he provided no evidence to support this assertion. He also mentioned a purported incident where a “male boxer” allegedly “stole” a women’s gold medal during the Paris Olympics, a claim that has been debunked as a misunderstanding of a cisgender athlete’s participation.

Trump’s order has been met with strong opposition from LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations, with Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson criticizing the move. Robinson said that the order risks exposing young transgender athletes to harassment and discrimination. She added that the order would create divisive and harmful policies at a time when the country is facing pressing issues in education and society.

In a separate statement, GLAAD denounced the order as “inaccurate” and “incoherent,” emphasizing that all women and girls, including transgender women, should have the right to participate in sports. GLAAD further noted that the order does not change the law or the facts, reinforcing the belief that transgender athletes should be free from legal and political attacks.

As of now, 27 states have enacted laws banning transgender athletes from participating in girls’ and women’s sports. These policies affect not only K-12 students but also extend to collegiate teams and co-ed recreational leagues. The restrictions have led to instances of “trans-vestigation,” where cisgender athletes are questioned or scrutinized due to their perceived gender identity, further fueling the debate over fairness and inclusion in sports.

Trump’s executive order represents a major escalation in the ongoing battle over transgender rights in the U.S. The decision is expected to further polarize the debate, as both sides continue to advocate for their positions on how to define fairness and inclusion in competitive athletics.

February 5, 2025