Gayety

Author: Josh Azevedo

  • Jools Lebron Claims Beauty Brand Exploited Her, Reveals She Was Unpaid for Work

    Jools Lebron Claims Beauty Brand Exploited Her, Reveals She Was Unpaid for Work

    Jools Lebron, the influencer behind one of 2024’s most viral trends, is speaking out about an experience she claims where she wasn’t compensated for her work with a beauty brand.

    In the debut episode of her new podcast Very Demure, Lebron, a transgender influencer who popularized the “demure” trend on TikTok, revealed that a well-known beauty brand took advantage of her. The “demure” trend, which emphasizes a “mindful” and “cutesy” approach to life, became so popular that it led to the word being named Dictionary.com‘s Word of the Year for 2024.

    Lebron, who gained widespread recognition for her TikToks demonstrating demure behavior in everyday scenarios, such as applying for a job or boarding an airplane, says her viral success enabled her to afford gender-affirming surgery and help a friend with housing. However, she now claims that some companies, including the beauty brand in question, expected her to work for free.

    Lebron shared her story of working with the brand and its founder, who had recently faced criticism for allegedly not paying Black and brown creators. The influencer said she was flown to New York for a foundation event without compensation, despite being at the height of her TikTok fame. “At the height of the most viral sensation of TikTok of 2024, you got me to fly to New York, for free, unpaid, to essentially promote your foundation?” Lebron said during the podcast.

    While she was initially excited to work with the brand and its founder—whom she considered an idol—Lebron later realized she was not paid, unlike other influencers who were compensated for similar promotions. She explained, “Of course I want to make some TikToks with you… he was making TikToks with all the divas. Because he was paying the other divas, I found out later.”

     

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    A post shared by Jools Lebron (@joolieannie)

    Lebron said she didn’t plan to speak out about the experience but felt compelled to after the brand posted a video asking creators who felt they had been underpaid to reach out. This prompted Lebron to reflect on her own treatment. She also mentioned a comment from one of her fans, who tagged the creator in a post celebrating her success, claiming the creator gave her her first brand deal. According to Lebron, that claim wasn’t true, and she questioned the creator’s response: “You love helping the divas, and you didn’t cut me a check?”

    While Lebron didn’t explicitly name the beauty brand or its founder, fans have speculated that she may be referring to beauty mogul Patrick Ta, as some commenters have begun tagging him and his brand in relation to the story. However, this remains purely speculative at this point.

    The episode has sparked a conversation about compensation for influencers and creators of color, particularly within the beauty industry. Lebron’s experience highlights the growing scrutiny of how brands and creators work with underrepresented talent, especially when it comes to fair payment for their contributions.

    As of now, the story is still developing, and it remains unclear whether the beauty brand or its founder will address the claims. For now, Lebron continues to use her platform to shed light on issues of fairness and equity in the influencer industry.

  • Transgender Daughter of Naomi Watts and Liev Schreiber Makes Paris Fashion Week Debut

    Transgender Daughter of Naomi Watts and Liev Schreiber Makes Paris Fashion Week Debut

    Kai Schreiber, the transgender daughter of Hollywood stars Naomi Watts and Liev Schreiber, made her catwalk debut this past weekend at Paris Fashion Week, marking a major milestone in her modeling career.

    At just 16 years old, Kai walked for Maison Valentino’s womenswear fall/winter 2025 show on Sunday, March 9. Dressed in a striking snake-print knit mini dress, the young model wore a brown-and-purple feather collar, a beige-pink headband, sunglasses, white lace stockings, and white sandals, showcasing her poised presence on the runway.

    Sharing her excitement on Instagram, Kai wrote, “Omg, my heart is so full,” accompanied by photos from the show.

    Her proud mother, Naomi Watts, a two-time Oscar-nominated actress known for roles in The Impossible and Twin Peaks, expressed her joy with a heartfelt post. “Be still my beating heart. Bravo darling. I love you so much and what a show,” Watts wrote.

    Liev Schreiber, the Ray Donovan and Spotlight star, also showed his pride, commenting on Kai’s debut: “Beyond beyond Kai.”

     

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    A post shared by kai schreiber (@kaischreiberrr)

    Kai, who is signed to IMG Models, has already made waves in the fashion industry. Her appearance at Paris Fashion Week follows her growing presence in the modeling world. Her supportive family has often been seen at major runway shows, further highlighting their close bond.

    In addition to Kai, Watts and Schreiber have another child, 17-year-old Sasha, who is also beginning a modeling career. Sasha previously voiced one of the young wolves in Disney’s 2016 film The Jungle Book. Both parents have encouraged their children to pursue their passions and have shown unwavering support for their artistic endeavors.

    Naomi Watts publicly expressed her pride for Kai’s achievements in a birthday tribute posted to Instagram in 2022. Reflecting on her daughter’s strengths, Watts wrote, “Your fierce talent, sharp mind, hilarious wit, and gentle soul fills my heart every day.”

    Though Watts and Schreiber separated in 2016 after 11 years together, they have remained co-parents, continuing to support their children through various endeavors.

    The family’s support for Kai was evident years before her modeling career took off. In 2017, Schreiber was praised for taking Kai, who had not yet publicly come out as trans, to ComicCon dressed as the Batman villain Harley Quinn. At the time, Kai was still navigating her gender identity, and fans praised Schreiber for allowing his children to express themselves freely. One fan commented, “No one should ever try to make your child conform to what others think is right,” applauding Schreiber for his open-mindedness and love for his child.

    As Kai continues to break barriers in the fashion industry, her debut at Paris Fashion Week stands as a testament to her talent and the unwavering support of her parents, who have been by her side every step of the way.

  • Supreme Court to Decide Whether States Can Ban Conversion Therapy for LGBTQ+ Minors

    Supreme Court to Decide Whether States Can Ban Conversion Therapy for LGBTQ+ Minors

    The U.S. Supreme Court announced Monday it will review a case from Colorado to determine whether state and local governments have the authority to enforce laws that ban conversion therapy for LGBTQ+ minors.

    The case comes as the conservative-led court takes on a range of cases involving LGBTQ+ rights, including those related to transgender issues. This review follows several actions by former President Donald Trump targeting transgender individuals, such as a ban on transgender people serving in the military and a decision to halt federal funding for gender-affirming care for transgender minors.

    The court has also heard arguments in a separate Tennessee case regarding whether state bans on treating transgender minors violate constitutional rights, but it has not yet issued a decision.

    Colorado is one of approximately half of U.S. states that have laws prohibiting the practice of conversion therapy, a controversial technique aimed at changing a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity through counseling. The central issue in the case is whether such laws infringe upon the speech rights of counselors.

    Proponents of the bans argue that these laws regulate the professional conduct of licensed counselors, ensuring that minors are not subjected to harmful or unproven therapy. Opponents, however, contend that these laws restrict free speech by limiting the ability of therapists to offer services based on their beliefs.

    The 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver upheld Colorado’s law, ruling it did not violate constitutional rights. Meanwhile, the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta struck down similar local bans in Florida, creating a split among federal appeals courts.

    In 2023, the Supreme Court declined to review a similar challenge, despite the differing rulings from federal appeals courts. At that time, justices Samuel Alito, Brett Kavanaugh, and Clarence Thomas expressed interest in hearing the case, though the court requires four votes to grant review. It remains unclear which justice provided the necessary fourth vote for this new case to be heard.

    The case will be argued during the court’s upcoming term, set to begin in October. The appeal was filed on behalf of Kaley Chiles, a counselor in Colorado Springs, by Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), a conservative legal organization known for its involvement in high-profile social issue cases.

    Chiles claims the law has forced her to turn away clients, although ADF lawyer Jim Campbell declined to specify how many clients were affected during a press call Monday. Chiles has argued that the law interferes with her ability to serve clients with integrity, as violations could result in fines of up to $5,000 and potential suspension or revocation of her professional license.

    This case draws on a previous Supreme Court decision in 2018, where the justices ruled 5-4 that California could not require state-licensed crisis pregnancy centers to provide information about abortion services. Chiles’ legal team is leveraging that decision in their request for the court to hear the current case, emphasizing that Chiles does not seek to “cure” clients of same-sex attractions or alter their sexual orientation.

    In response to the appeal, Colorado’s attorneys argued that the state law was aimed at regulating professional conduct, citing “overwhelming evidence” that efforts to change a child’s sexual orientation or gender identity through conversion therapy are both ineffective and unsafe.

    The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the legal landscape surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and the regulation of counseling practices in the United States. As the Supreme Court prepares to take up the issue, advocates on both sides of the debate are closely watching the case, which could set a precedent for similar laws across the country.

  • Elon Musk’s Trans Daughter Responds to Father’s Controversial Comments About Her Transition

    Elon Musk’s Trans Daughter Responds to Father’s Controversial Comments About Her Transition

    Elon Musk’s relationship with his children has been the subject of public scrutiny for years, and recently, his trans daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, has spoken out in response to his controversial remarks about her transition. Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, is believed to have fathered 14 children. Among them, only four are known to be female, including Wilson, who transitioned from male to female. Her mother is Musk’s ex-wife, author Justine Wilson.

    Musk’s other daughters include Azure and Arcadia, children he shares with his partner Sharon Zilis, and Exa Dark Sideræl, his child with the musician Grimes.

    In 2021, Forbes highlighted Musk’s “engineering approach to reproduction” after learning that his first five children, including Vivian, were conceived via in vitro fertilization (IVF). The article speculated about the possibility of sex-selective IVF, a practice that is illegal in many countries. This speculation led to rumors about Musk potentially using sex-selective IVF for his children, which have continued to swirl in the years since.

    Now, Vivian has addressed these ongoing rumors directly, alleging that her father paid to ensure she was born male. On March 9, 2025, Wilson took to Threads, a social media platform owned by Meta, to share her side of the story. In a post, she wrote, “My assigned sex at birth was a commodity that was bought and paid for. So when I was feminine as a child and then turned out to be transgender, I was going against the product that was sold.”

    Photo: Threads/@vivllainous
    Photo: Threads/@vivllainous

    Musk’s public response to his daughter’s transition has been widely criticized. In July 2024, during an interview with right-wing commentator Jordan Peterson, Musk referred to Wilson’s transition as a consequence of the “woke mind virus.” Throughout the conversation, Musk misgendered Wilson, describing her as “my son” and claiming that her transition was coerced, saying, “I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys… I was told [Vivian] might commit suicide. It’s incredibly evil… the people promoting this should go to prison.”

    Musk also claimed that he was unaware that puberty blockers, a common part of the transition process, could result in sterility, saying, “I lost my son, essentially.” He further stated, “They call it deadnaming for a reason. The reason is your son is dead. My son is dead, killed by the woke mind virus. I vowed to destroy the woke mind virus after that.”

    In response to these inflammatory remarks, Vivian has been vocal in challenging her father’s claims. She posted a series of messages on Threads, mocking Musk’s comments about her being “dead.” “Last time I checked I am, indeed, not dead,” she wrote. In another post, she quipped, “I look pretty good for a dead b**ch.”

    Wilson also took issue with Musk’s claim that she was “slightly autistic” as a child, linking this to her gender dysphoria. She dismissed this as “entirely fake,” saying, “None of this ever happened. Ever. I don’t even know where he got this from. My best guess is that he went to the Milo Yiannopoulos school of gay stereotypes, just picked some at random and said: ‘Eh, good enough.’”

    Many social media users have shown support for Wilson’s stance, with one person commenting, “I’m so sorry, as a mother and grandmother, I can’t emotionally wrap my brain around a parent not loving and supporting their child. I’ll spare you my thoughts on that man, I’ll just say that man is soulless. Anyone who turns their back on their child is a deficient human. All the love to you.”

    Musk’s remarks about his daughter have drawn criticism from many, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community, where his statements are seen as harmful and misinformed. Wilson’s decision to speak out is seen as an important moment in the ongoing debate about parental support for transgender children and the challenges faced by individuals navigating gender identity within public families.

    As of now, it appears that the estranged relationship between Musk and Wilson remains a deeply personal and contentious issue, with the public battle continuing to unfold on social media.

  • Gavin Newsom Sparks Outrage with Controversial Comments on Transgender Athletes, Breaks from Democratic Stance

    Gavin Newsom Sparks Outrage with Controversial Comments on Transgender Athletes, Breaks from Democratic Stance

    California Gov. Gavin Newsom stirred controversy on Thursday by expressing his belief that it is “deeply unfair” for transgender women and girls to compete in female sports, marking a sharp departure from the stance held by most of his fellow Democrats. His comments, made during a 71-minute interview on his new podcast, This Is Gavin Newsom, drew both criticism and support as he addressed the contentious issue of trans inclusion in athletics.

    Newsom’s remarks, made in a conversation with conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, focused on the fairness of allowing transgender athletes to compete on teams that align with their gender identities. Newsom’s stance is in contrast to longstanding Democratic support for trans inclusion in school sports.

    Kirk, the co-founder of Turning Point USA, challenged Newsom during the interview by asking whether he would denounce the participation of a transgender high school athlete in California, who recently won the triple jump at a track meet. “Would you say no to men in female sports?” Kirk asked.

    Newsom replied, “I think it’s an issue of fairness, I completely agree with you on that. It’s deeply unfair.”

    The governor, a Democrat who has long been associated with progressive policies on LGBTQ+ rights, clarified that while he agreed with Kirk on the fairness issue, he also sympathized with the struggles of transgender individuals. “These poor people are more likely to commit suicide, have anxiety and depression,” Newsom said. “The way people talk down to vulnerable communities is an issue that I have a hard time with as well.”

    He added that transgender inclusion in sports should be approached with “humility and grace,” acknowledging the difficulty of balancing fairness concerns with the well-being of transgender individuals.

    Newsom’s comments come at a time when the debate over transgender athletes has gained national attention. Just days before Newsom’s podcast appearance, Democrats in the U.S. Senate voted unanimously to block a bill that would have banned transgender girls and women from competing in women’s sports in any federally funded athletic program, including public schools.

    Though Newsom did not specify whether he believes trans inclusion in sports is unfair at all levels of competition, his remarks suggested that he sees the issue as particularly problematic at certain competitive levels. He did not respond to a request for further clarification.

    The conversation continued as Kirk made inflammatory remarks about the state of trans issues in America, calling the “trans stuff” “an affront to all of our senses” and decrying what he described as “chemical castration” of minors. He claimed that Americans were increasingly opposed to what he characterized as the overreach of LGBTQ+ rights in youth sports and medical care.

    Newsom responded, “I think we have to be more sensitized to that,” but did not engage deeply with Kirk’s inflammatory rhetoric.

    The conversation also touched on polls that reveal a divided public opinion on policies related to transition-related care for minors. One 2022 poll by Pew Research Center showed that 46% of Americans supported laws restricting gender-transition care for minors, while 31% opposed such laws. Other polling has found significant opposition to medical interventions for younger transgender individuals, such as puberty blockers or hormone treatments.

    Newsom, while not delving into the specifics of these policies, acknowledged the heated nature of the debate. He also commented on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, noting that more must be done to support these communities.

    Kirk also referenced the Cass report, an independent study commissioned by England’s National Health Service, which concluded that the medical evidence for transition-related care for minors was weak. Newsom acknowledged that he was not an expert on the issue but emphasized the need for careful and thoughtful discussions on the matter.

    Newsom’s comments have sparked backlash from LGBTQ+ advocates, particularly those in his own party. California Assemblymember Chris Ward and State Senator Caroline Menjivar, both members of the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus, expressed their frustration with the governor’s remarks. They issued a statement saying they were “profoundly sickened and frustrated” by Newsom’s position, arguing that the governor’s views could undermine protections for transgender students in California.

    Ward and Menjivar referenced California’s 2013 law, which allows transgender students to participate in school sports based on their gender identity. The law has been a landmark policy aimed at ensuring inclusion for transgender students, and many LGBTQ+ advocates argue that Newsom’s recent comments could signal a shift away from such protections.

    Despite the criticism, Newsom has a long history of supporting LGBTQ+ rights. As mayor of San Francisco in 2004, he famously defied state law by issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. In recent years, he has signed laws protecting transgender minors and ensuring access to gender-affirming care in California.

    During the podcast, Newsom also discussed a California law he signed that prohibits schools from disclosing a student’s gender identity or sexual orientation to parents without the student’s consent. This law, which aims to protect LGBTQ+ students’ privacy, has drawn criticism from conservative groups like Kirk, who argued it restricts parental rights.

    Newsom’s interview has left many wondering whether his stance on transgender athletes represents a shift in his political approach, as he navigates the complex intersection of LGBTQ+ rights and public opinion. As the debate over transgender inclusion in sports continues to unfold, Newsom’s comments have added fuel to the fire, particularly in California, a state known for its progressive policies on LGBTQ+ issues.

    As the issue continues to be debated, Newsom’s position remains a point of contention within both his party and the broader political landscape.

  • Madonna Blasts Trump’s Anti-Trans Policies, Slams ‘Lynch Mob Mentality’ in Powerful Instagram Message

    Madonna Blasts Trump’s Anti-Trans Policies, Slams ‘Lynch Mob Mentality’ in Powerful Instagram Message

    Music icon Madonna is once again voicing her strong opposition to the policies of former President Donald Trump, condemning his executive orders targeting the LGBTQ+ community, particularly those affecting transgender individuals. In a passionate statement shared via Instagram on March 7, Madonna expressed her heartbreak over the ongoing discrimination faced by trans people under Trump’s administration.

    Since taking office, Trump, now 78, has enacted a series of executive orders that have drawn significant criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates. These include restrictions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and a controversial ban on transgender individuals serving in the military.

    Madonna, a long-time advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, has regularly spoken out against what she describes as the administration’s “bigotry” toward the LGBTQ+ community. In her latest statement, the pop legend lamented the harsh treatment transgender people have endured, questioning how those in power could fail to understand the struggles of marginalized groups.

    “How can we know what it feels like? Have we walked in their shoes?” Madonna wrote in her Instagram story. “The lynch mob mentality in this country is at an all-time high. The excitement people get from watching others go down or be silenced, be blacklisted, is disturbing.”

    Photo: Instagram/@Madonna
    Photo: Instagram/@Madonna

    The 65-year-old star continued by condemning those who take pleasure in the suffering of others, calling such behavior a “sin.” She emphasized the importance of empathy and compassion, urging humanity to focus on uplifting those who strive to be better versions of themselves.

    “Humanity should put more time and effort into lifting people up and supporting anyone who is striving to be the better version of themselves,” Madonna added.

    Her comments came in the wake of a controversial speech made by Trump on March 4, during his address to Congress. In his remarks, Trump once again targeted the LGBTQ+ community, falsely claiming that the previous Democratic administration had spent millions of dollars attempting to create “transgender mice.” This false claim, which quickly gained traction on social media, was debunked by fact-checkers. CNN clarified that the funding in question was for studies analyzing the effects of hormones on preexisting health conditions, such as asthma—not for the creation of “transgender mice.”

    Despite the falsehoods, the rhetoric has only fueled Madonna’s resolve to stand up for the rights of transgender individuals. This is not the first time she has spoken out against the Trump administration. In January, she posted a similar message on X (formerly Twitter), expressing her dismay at the Republican president’s dismantling of protections for marginalized groups. At the time, she urged LGBTQ+ individuals not to “give up the fight.”

    Madonna’s continued advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community comes as a reminder of her longstanding commitment to social justice. Throughout her career, she has used her platform to challenge inequality and amplify the voices of those who are often silenced.

    The pop star’s latest remarks have sparked widespread support from her followers, many of whom have praised her for remaining steadfast in her support of the LGBTQ+ community. As the political landscape continues to shift, Madonna’s voice remains a powerful ally in the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.

    The former queen of pop has made it clear that her advocacy will not waver, even in the face of divisive political climates and continued attacks on LGBTQ+ rights. “Don’t give up the fight,” she urged her followers, echoing a message of resilience and hope for a more inclusive future.

  • Gay MAGA Influencer Dies After Series of Accidents, Legal Woes, and Shocking Revelations

    Gay MAGA Influencer Dies After Series of Accidents, Legal Woes, and Shocking Revelations

    Influencer and social media personality Bruno, known for his popular Garrett Travels account with 61,000 followers, has passed away following a series of accidents and legal challenges.

    The 33-year-old influencer was involved in a serious crash earlier this year, but only days after his release from the hospital, he suffered a second accident while riding a scooter. On October 19, just nine days after the initial crash, Bruno was photographed by DailyMail.com outside his West Hollywood home, appearing to snort a substance in broad daylight. He later claimed the powder was prescription ketamine in a post on his Instagram account.

    Garrett Bruno and his dog, Boone, on a hike. Photo: Instagram/@garrett.travels
    Garrett Bruno and his dog, Boone, on a hike. Photo: Instagram/@garrett.travels

    Less than a week later, on October 25, Bruno fell off his scooter and sustained a severe head injury, cracking his skull. The influencer was rushed to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills, where he was placed in a coma. His condition was critical, and it was unclear whether he would survive the injury.

    Bruno’s troubles did not end with his medical crisis. On November 15, deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office raided his West Hollywood home in connection with the murder of a man named Abouab. They were unable to arrest Bruno due to his hospitalization, though the investigation continued.

    Bruno regained consciousness in late December 2024, after spending several weeks in a coma. He was transferred to an LA jail to face charges related to the murder investigation. However, by January 2025, Bruno had been released on bail while awaiting trial.

    Tragically, just before his trial was set to begin, Bruno died. According to reports, he had flown to Florida to be with his family at the time of his death. The cause of death has not yet been confirmed.

    Bruno’s life took a surprising turn in 2024 when he publicly revealed his support for the MAGA (Make America Great Again) movement. His announcement shocked many, particularly within the LGBT community in West Hollywood, where he had been known for his advocacy on various social issues.

    His unexpected death has left the social media community stunned, with many fans and followers paying tribute to him online. Despite his controversial public persona and the tumultuous events leading up to his passing, Bruno remains a figure remembered for his influence on social media and his impact on the LGBTQ+ community.

    An official investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death is ongoing.

  • Lady Gaga Celebrates LGBTQ+ Resilience and Her Own Evolution in ‘Mayhem’ Era

    Lady Gaga Celebrates LGBTQ+ Resilience and Her Own Evolution in ‘Mayhem’ Era

    Lady Gaga has consistently reshaped the pop landscape with each album, from the glitzy rise of The Fame to the emotional depth of Joanne and the sci-fi fantasy of Chromatica. Now, with her highly anticipated seventh studio album, Mayhem, the superstar turns the focus inward, reflecting on the shape of her own stardom and embracing her true artistry.

    In an interview with Out, Gaga describes Mayhem as “a lot of gothic dreams,” a theme that has quietly resonated throughout her career. “I’ve realized that’s been a part of my music since early in my career,” she explains, suggesting that the album marks an exploration of her own evolution as both an artist and a person.

    At 38, Gaga feels a renewed sense of confidence in her musical journey. “As a pop star, I want to be able to celebrate the parts of myself that I know will carry me forward,” she says, comfortably relaxing under a blanket with sunlight streaming in. She recalls advice from legendary jazz singer Tony Bennett, who urged her to focus on quality. “If the thing that I focus on for the rest of my career is my musicianship, that will be a way for me to move forward, and with confidence,” Gaga reflects.

    Throughout her career, Gaga has cemented herself not only as a defining figure of pop culture but also as a multifaceted artist, admired for her musicianship and her willingness to push boundaries. “I’m not sure if people know that I’ve been producing all my albums my whole career. I’ve always been a co-producer and writer on my records. I just feel more comfortable talking about it now,” she reveals. “I’m also really proud of this music. I’m very proud of the production on this album.”

    In a world dominated by social media feeds, trending topics, and viral moments, Gaga has long tackled the intersection of fame, artifice, and identity—issues she first delved into with ARTPOP in 2013. Yet, in 2025, as artists and brands navigate an increasingly polarized social landscape, Gaga continues to thrive. At the Grammy Awards, she earned a Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance with the hauntingly romantic track “Die With a Smile,” which closes out Mayhem. During her acceptance speech, Gaga used the opportunity to speak out on behalf of the trans community, reiterating her commitment to supporting marginalized voices.

    That same night, Gaga made another bold statement by releasing her new song “Abracadabra” and its accompanying music video during an ad break in the Grammy telecast. For her queer fans, the excitement was palpable. “It means the absolute world to me,” Gaga says, visibly moved. “I can’t even begin to tell you how grateful I am, and what it means to be supported by a community that I respect so much. A community that is responsible for so much great art for thousands of years.”

    Gaga’s continued support for the LGBTQ+ community is not just an underlying current in her music, but a defining element of her public persona. “It really means a lot,” she adds, “and I hope that I made something that the LGBTQ+ community felt was also indicative of the resilience that I see in queer people all the time.”

    Though many would consider the support of allies to be a given, Gaga continues to make her commitment to the queer community front and center in her career. “I just want to say that I love you so much,” she tells Out. “And I thank you for your endless amounts of love, inspiration, and strength. Thank you for teaching the world how to be kind, and to love. And know that I’m going to have the back of the LGBTQ+ community every single day.”

    Gaga pauses before continuing: “Actually, I think my message wouldn’t necessarily be to the queer community. It would be to everyone else: You can learn a lot from the queer community about love.”

    As she embarks on this new era, Gaga continues to use her platform not only to create art but to advocate for love, inclusion, and strength—values that have always been at the core of her music and public persona. Mayhem is a reflection of her personal and artistic growth, blending the gothic with the glamorous as she shapes the next chapter of her career, staying true to the very parts of herself that have defined her journey.

  • U.S. Retailers Quietly Maintain DEI Efforts Despite Public Rollbacks

    U.S. Retailers Quietly Maintain DEI Efforts Despite Public Rollbacks

    Several U.S. retailers that publicly scaled back their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs — including Target, Amazon, and Tractor Supply — continue to support certain DEI initiatives behind the scenes, raising questions about the tension between public and private commitments to diversity.

    Although companies like Target and Amazon have ended or restructured certain DEI programs on paper, many have assured advocacy groups and individuals that they will continue funding LGBTQ+ Pride and racial justice events, as well as supporting internal resource groups for underrepresented employees. This contradiction between public statements made to investors and private conversations with advocacy groups reveals the delicate balancing act companies are attempting to perform amid growing political and legal pressures.

    “Companies are trying to thread the needle — stay true to corporate values, satisfy various stakeholders, but reduce legal risk,” said Jason C. Schwartz, an employment law partner at Gibson Dunn who advises corporate clients on DEI issues. “It’s a challenging time for companies trying to maintain a strong commitment to DEI while navigating the current political climate.”

    Tractor Supply, a retailer that sells home and garden supplies, made headlines earlier this year when it ended a DEI program focused on increasing representation of people of color in management and enhancing support for Black education initiatives. The company also stopped collecting diversity data for the Human Rights Campaign‘s Corporate Equality Index, which evaluates businesses on their treatment of LGBTQ+ employees and customers. A spokesperson for Tractor Supply said the company had made a “purposeful decision” to remove what it considered “perceived political and social agendas” from its operations.

    However, Keayana Robinson, the contractor who led the company’s diversity data collection, said Tractor Supply offered to keep her on in a new, undefined role related to DEI. Robinson added that management assured her the company’s internal diversity initiatives, including support for resource groups for underrepresented employees, would continue. Robinson, however, declined the offer, saying she did not want to work for a company that “wants to hide me.”

    Target also announced in January that it would no longer participate in the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index and eliminated a DEI program aimed at increasing the number of Black employees by 20% over three years. A spokesperson for Target emphasized the company’s shift in focus, stating that its new approach was geared toward increasing relevance with U.S. consumers and attracting top talent.

    Despite these changes, Target’s commitment to diversity remains a topic of concern for some advocates. Sharon Smith-Akinsanya, CEO of Rae Mackenzie Group, met with Target executives after the company scaled back its DEI efforts. Smith-Akinsanya, who organizes career events for people of color in Minnesota, said she was reassured by Target’s leadership but noted that the company’s actions were still troubling.

    “Target’s DNA remains intact, and I believe in their commitment to diversity,” Smith-Akinsanya said, adding that she understands the political challenges faced by companies in today’s climate.

    However, some advocacy groups are taking a firmer stance. Andi Otto, executive director of Twin Cities Pride, said the organization declined a $50,000 sponsorship from Target this year after nearly two decades of partnership. Otto cited concerns over Target’s retreat from DEI programs and the removal of some Pride Month products in 2023. “Target can’t have it both ways,” Otto said, referring to the company’s public reassurances coupled with its policy changes.

    Similarly, Sheletta Brundidge, a Black business leader, dropped Amazon as a sponsor of her annual Black Entrepreneurs Day after learning about the company’s rollbacks in DEI programs. Brundidge recounted a phone call in which Amazon representatives attempted to downplay the changes, but she remained firm in her decision to sever ties.

    Despite these controversies, some companies are sticking to their DEI commitments, even in the face of legal and political pressures. In February, investors at Apple voted against a proposal to curtail DEI efforts during the company’s shareholder meeting. A day later, former President Donald Trump criticized Apple for its DEI policies on social media. Although Apple did not respond directly to the comments, the company has maintained that it is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion, belonging, and collaboration.

    Costco Wholesale also faced a challenge in January when its shareholders voted against a proposal to limit DEI initiatives. Following this, 19 Republican state attorneys general demanded that Costco clarify its stance on DEI policies. The company has not publicly responded to requests for comment.

    The list of companies pulling back from DEI programs has grown in recent months, with notable names including Walmart, PepsiCo, McDonald’s, and John Deere. Some of these companies have confirmed changes to their DEI strategies, while others have yet to provide detailed responses.

    Lawyers suggest that companies are navigating a complex landscape, considering both legal and political risks when deciding which DEI programs to retain. “Companies are essentially picking their battles,” said Schwartz. “They’re trying to avoid battles altogether while trying to maintain their core values.”

    As these retailers walk a fine line between public and private commitments, the future of DEI programs in the corporate world remains uncertain. While some companies continue to support diversity initiatives quietly, others face growing pressure from both advocates and political figures to either fully embrace or scale back their DEI efforts.

  • Colton Underwood Dishes on Daddy Life, Self-Care, and the Hot Steam Rooms Keeping Him Sexy

    Colton Underwood Dishes on Daddy Life, Self-Care, and the Hot Steam Rooms Keeping Him Sexy

    Colton Underwood is embracing fatherhood and living his best life with his husband, Jordan C. Brown, and their five-month-old son, Bishop Colton. The former The Bachelor star, who came out as gay in 2021, shared his excitement about his new role as a dad during the 33rd annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party in Los Angeles.

    Speaking to PRIDE, Underwood reflected on the joy he’s found in fatherhood, expressing how natural it feels to raise his son with Brown. “I was born to be a dad and daddy, whatever you want to call it. We’re figuring out our titles still! Dad, daddy, pops… all of the labels,” Underwood said. “Hopefully, there’s more little ones in our future. It’s been the best thing that’s ever happened to us. It’s a dream come true.”

    As Underwood and Brown navigate their new life as parents, the couple is enjoying their growing family and the new dynamic that comes with it. Despite the joys of parenthood, Underwood emphasized that he’s also making time for self-care, balancing his responsibilities as a father and husband with his own well-being.

    “I have an incredible partner who loves and supports me and makes me feel good,” Underwood explained. “Then, I just find random times to take care of myself whether it’s a hot tub, a coffee, a Barry’s Bootcamp workout class, or an Equinox steam room… we’ll figure it out.”

    Underwood also shared that he finds moments to unwind and focus on his physical health, which has become a priority for him. He enjoys the flexibility to fit in self-care activities, whether it’s a workout or a relaxing session in a steam room. Many fans will relate to his approach, as he highlights the importance of balancing personal wellness with the busy demands of parenting.

    Notably, Underwood’s choice of the Equinox steam room is a nod to a popular self-care practice among many gay men, with its reputation as a social and relaxing space. It’s clear that Underwood is no stranger to enjoying the benefits of both physical activity and relaxation in places like the gym and spa.

    Through his journey, Underwood has shown how embracing family life, health, and well-being can coexist, even as he continues to navigate his new chapter as an openly gay man. His openness about balancing his personal health with the challenges and joys of parenthood provides a relatable perspective for many.

    As Underwood and Brown continue their journey with young Bishop, it’s clear that the couple is savoring every moment of their growing family while also prioritizing their own happiness and self-care.