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.

• U.S. Transgender Air Force Members Denied Early Retirement: Transgender service members with 15-18 years in the Air Force are being forced out of the military with early retirement benefits being denied. Some service members had already been approved for early retirement, and now their approvals are being rescinded. 

• First Woman and LGBTQ+ Leader of Church in Wales: Cherry Van, a queer woman, has become the first LGBTQ+ female to be the archbishop in Britain. She has faced negative commentary on her ordination, but sees it as motivation to celebrate diversity. 

• JK Rowling Calls for Boycott of Store for Employing Transgender People: After a trans employee offered help to two customers, a mother and daughter at Marks and Spencer, the mother complained to the store that they were uncomfortable with a trans woman helping them. JK Rowling later responded to this event by saying, “It’s time for women to vote with their wallets. If stores like M&S continue to flout the Supreme Court ruling on women-only spaces, prioritising the wishes of men who want to undress near, or help fit bras on teenage girls, a boycott seems appropriate.”

1. Italy Considers Enforcing Harsher Control on Gender Affirming Care for Trans Youth: A draft law passed by the cabinet will enforce stricter rules on hormone treatment for transgender youth. The law would still need to be approved by the parliament. 

Gay Asylum Seeker Released from Imprisonment in El Salvador: Andry Hernández Romero, a gay man who had been sent to a prison in El Salvador during March, has now been returned to his native country.  Hernández Romero, who had been seeking asylum in the U.S. due to LGBTQ+ persecution at home, has stated that several of those imprisoned with him were being physically abused.