Arts & Entertainment
Pantene releases new trans-inclusive holiday ad

In partnership with GLAAD and the Trans Chorus of Los Angeles, Pantene is launching a new ad campaign this season in hope of promoting awareness of the challenges facing many LGBTQ+ people during the holidays.
As reported by People, the ad features TCLA’s performing “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” and hopes to spread some love during a time of the year that can often be difficult for those whose gender identity or sexual orientation aren’t accepted by their families. Intercut with the chorus singing are scenes of individual members as they prepare for their own holiday homecomings.
According to the official ad campaign description:
“137 million Americans will travel home this holiday season, but, 44% of LGBTQ+ people feel they can’t come home as their true selves, fearing their identity (including hair, makeup and personal style) won’t be accepted. Let’s make the most wonderful time of year wonderful for all. Because no matter when you come home, where you call home, or who you come home to—coming home should be #BeautifuLGBTQ.”
According to a statement from Procter & Gamble (Pantene’s parent company), Vice President Ilaria Resta says, “Inclusion is at the heart of Pantene’s mission to celebrate the beauty of all transformations and of all people. Hearing these LGBTQ individuals speak about the trials and triumphs of going home for the holidays—as well as their irrepressible desire to be their true selves—will inspire others in the community and remind us all what true beauty is about.”
Pantene has pledged to donate $100,000 to Family Equality. It has also promoted National Coming Out Day and Spirit Day on its social media profiles.
The Trans Chorus of Los Angeles is the first totally trans-identified choir in America.
The campaign has also released a series of profile videos, featuring individual chorus members Steven, Miliana, Crystal, and MJ. You can watch all the videos below:
The LGBTQ organization Lambda Legal held its annual “Lambda Legal in the Pines” fundraiser on Saturday, July 25. The event was held at a house on Fire Island featured in Ryan Murphy’s 2014 HBO film, “The Normal Heart.”
Organizers say over $500,000 was raised to support Lambda Legal’s national litigation and advocacy work.
(Photos by Santiago Felipe)














Out & About
Come showcase your singing, poetry talent
Spark Social open mic night planned for Aug. 13
Spark Social will host “Open Mic Night” on Thursday, Aug. 13 at 8 p.m.
Get ready to share your talent or just kick back and enjoy some great performances. This event is a fun, laid-back vibe where everyone’s welcome to take the stage. Sign-ups are first-come, first-served, but you can also DM Spark Social on Instagram to reserve a performance spot. Whether you’re a singer, poet, or comedian, this is your chance to get on stage and share your art. More details are available on Eventbrite.
Friday, July 31
Go Gay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Community Happy Hour” at 7 p.m. at DIK Bar. This is a chance to relax, make new friends, and enjoy happy hour specials at this classic retro venue. Attendance is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.
Saturday, August 1
Go Gay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Community Brunch” at 11 a.m. at Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant. This fun weekly event brings the DMV area LGBTQ+ community, including allies, together for delicious food and conversation. Attendance is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.
Sunday, August 2
“Black Gay Flea: Summer Kickback” will be at 12 p.m. at Wunder Garten. This is a space created to celebrate Black LGBTQ+ creatives, artists, makers, entrepreneurs, and the community that shows up for them. Come spend the afternoon shopping with local vendors, discovering new brands, supporting small businesses, and connecting with people from across the DMV. More details are on Eventbrite.
Monday, August 3
“Center Aging: Monday Coffee Klatch” will be at 10 a.m. on Zoom. This is a social hour for older LGBTQ+ adults. Guests are encouraged to bring a beverage of choice. For more information, contact Adam ([email protected]).
Tuesday, August 4
The DC Anti-Violence Project will host “Soul Centered” at 7 p.m. at Thurst Lounge. This is not a dating event in the traditional sense. It is a space to meet kindred spirits, future collaborators, mentors, friends, or maybe someone who reminds you of what’s possible. Romance may happen, but it’s not the expectation. For more details, visit DCAVP website.
Wednesday, August 5
Job Club will be at 6 p.m. on Zoom upon request. This is a weekly job support program to help job entrants and seekers, including the long-term unemployed, improve self-confidence, motivation, resilience and productivity for effective job searches and networking — allowing participants to move away from being merely “applicants” toward being “candidates.” For more information, email [email protected] or visit thedccenter.org/careers.
Center Aging Women’s Social & Discussion Group will be at 6 p.m. on Zoom. This group is a place where older LGBTQ+ women can meet and socialize with one another. To register, visit the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center’s website.
Thursday, August 6
The DC LGBTQ+ Community Center’s Fresh Produce Program will be held all day at the Center. People will be informed on Wednesday at 5 p.m. if they are picked to receive a produce box. No proof of residency or income is required. For more information, email [email protected] or call 202-682-2245.
Virtual Yoga Class will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This free weekly class is a combination of yoga, breath work and meditation that allows LGBTQ+ community members to continue their healing journey with somatic and mindfulness practices. For more details, visit the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center’s website.
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