National LGBTQ+ News Briefs
Virginia Governor Sworn In, Signs Anti-Discrimination Order
Abigail Spanberger was sworn in as Virginia's 75th governor on January 17, becoming the first woman to hold the office, the Washington Blade reported. LGBTQ groups Virginia Pride and Diversity Richmond participated in the inaugural parade, carrying a Progress Pride flag.
Following the ceremony, Spanberger signed 10 executive orders, including one prohibiting discrimination against state employees based on sexual orientation and gender identity, according to the Blade. On the same day, the Virginia Senate voted 26-13 to approve a resolution that would repeal the state's constitutional amendment defining marriage as between a man and a woman. The resolution requires passage by two successive legislatures before it can be placed on the ballot for voter approval.
HRC Survey Shows Changes in LGBTQ Community
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation released findings from its Annual LGBTQ+ Community Survey on January 15. The survey of nearly 15,000 U.S. adults found:
According to MSNBC, HRC also released a messaging playbook for pro-equality campaigns ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Trump Administration Policy Actions
The Trump administration ended rape protections for transgender inmates in Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities and federal prisons on January 16, Pink News reported. The administration continues enforcement of executive orders affecting LGBTQ individuals, including policies on gender definitions and military service.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on January 17 that efforts addressing sexual violence and women's rights have "little to nothing to show for it," according to LGBTQ Nation.
Trevor Project Receives $45 Million Donation
MacKenzie Scott donated $45 million to The Trevor Project on January 12, the largest single donation in the suicide prevention organization's 27-year history, CBS News reported. The organization estimates it lost approximately $25 million in federal funding after the administration terminated the LGBTQ youth component of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline last year, according to The Trevor Project.