As Queer Kentuckians, staying informed about LGBTQ+ news worldwide is essential. Changes in policy, activism, and culture in other regions can impact our community and efforts locally. Our weekly global news roundup keeps you updated on important LGBTQ+ developments, ensuring we remain informed and connected.

Cancellation of Liverpool Pride in the UK Due to Lack of Funding: Liverpool Pride, set to take place on July 26th, is now cancelled for 2025. After deciding to cut ties with Barclays for political reasons, who were a major financial contributor, the Liverpool City Region Pride Foundation is struggling financially, and is taking the time to ensure a stable foundation for the organization. 

International Pride Orchestra Forced to Relocate Performance: The International Pride Orchestra was set to perform at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. this year as part of World Pride. In February, Donald Trump began making changes to the Kennedy Center’s leadership, and stated on social media platforms that, “No more drag shows, or other anti-American propaganda” would be permitted at the center. Because of these changes, the orchestra instead performed at the Strathmore Music Center in Maryland. 

Bucharest, Romanian Pride Held in Face of Adversity: This year marked the 20th year of pride celebrations in Bucharest. Despite far-right ideologies becoming more and more popular in Romania, LGBTQ+ people and activists continue to show up bravely for themselves and their communities. 

WorldPride Held in Washington DC: For 2025, WorldPride was held in the US capitol of Washington DC. While the US political climate led to fewer attendees than previously expected, the three-week long festival has been an opportunity for activism and queer voices to shine through. 

Switch 2 Console Features Genderless Miis: Mii avatars, a long standing feature of personalization on Nintendo consoles, are no longer separated between “male” and “female”. Instead, the avatars are separated into “styles”, one wearing a dress, and the other wearing pants. Some fans theorize that this will lead to the ability to have same-sex relationships in the upcoming game, Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream, despite same-sex marriage being currently illegal in Japan.