LA Sheriff’s Deputies Dismissed For Covering Up Trans Beating + More News

Some news items that caught my eye: • The Guardian: Deputy Joseph Benza III, of the LA Sheriff’s Department, has pleaded guilty to beating and arresting a trans man in February 2023 for flipping the middle finger. Eight other deputies were dismissed for helping Benza cover up his false police report. • Outsports: Male cheerleaders are opening a gateway to the NFL and sports for LGBTQ fans. While there are some haters, it’s worth noting male cheerleaders have been around for decades – including yours truly who was captain of the cheer squad at Syracuse University back in the day.

Male cheerleaders open a gateway to the NFL and sports for LGBTQ fans, including this gay sportswriter.https://t.co/e4qqvMidZr

— Outsports (@outsports) January 3, 2025

• OUT Magazine: Season 2 of Squid Game has finally arrived — and even though fans have spent the three years eagerly awaiting the return of their new favorite show, there is already controversy happening over the inclusion of a trans character. • Instinct Magazine: Scissor Sisters lead vocalist Jake Shears went ‘Instagram official’ on New Years Day posting a photo with his boyfriend, actor/dancer/choreographer Jon Reynolds. https://www.instagram.com/p/DEOQ4lItVO0/?img_index=1 • LGBTQ Nation: Australia’s only women’s sport bar, Ladies League, closed on New Year’s Day. After initial success, the venue struggled outside of active sports season and economic pressures. • The Advocate:  Equality PAC hosted a celebration on Thursday evening honoring incoming Congresswomen-elect Sarah McBride of Delaware, Emily Randall of Washington state, and Julie Johnson of Texas. McBride is the first transgender person in Congress, Randall the first queer Latina, and Johnson the first LGBTQ+ member of Congress from the South.

Here’s what Sarah McBride, Emily Randall, and Julie Johnson have to say about what they are up against in the House. https://t.co/c37xcKbFNi

— The Advocate (@TheAdvocateMag) January 3, 2025