Latest news with #Queer
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
New Sculpture, In Plain Sight, Unveiled at Cherry Street Pier for Pride Month
Open call begins for a permanent home of the sculpture following its Pride Month installation on the Delaware River Waterfront PHILADELPHIA, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Visit Philadelphia today unveiled In Plain Sight, a large-scale sculpture at Cherry Street Pier honoring Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual members of the LGBTQ+ community. On display throughout Pride Month this June, the installation serves as a bold celebration of the TQ+ community — a group facing increased scrutiny as LGBTQ+ rights remain at the center of national debate. The sculpture underscores Philadelphia's longstanding commitment to being a welcoming and affirming destination for LGBTQ+ residents and travelers. To bring In Plain Sight to life, Visit Philadelphia consulted with local artists and creatives, including Philadelphia-based Bill Adair, an independent arts and culture consultant and former director of the Pew Center for Arts & Heritage. The concept was developed in partnership with local agency A&G (Allen & Gerritsen) and the final piece was fabricated by Outshaped, a family-owned 3D design and manufacturing studio. Standing at 10 feet tall and weighing 250 pounds, the sculpture's design incorporates colors from the different LGBTQ+ pride flags, each representing a segment of the community: Transgender (T): Light blue, white and pink stripes from the Transgender Pride Flag. Queer (Q): Elements from the traditional Rainbow Pride Flag, featuring red, orange, yellow, green, blue and violet. Plus (+): Yellow and purple from the Intersex Pride Flag, symbolizing autonomy and visibility; black and white from the Asexual Pride Flag; and black and brown from the Progress Pride Flag, representing people of color and other marginalized groups within the LGBTQ+ community. The sculpture also features carved grooves throughout, symbolizing the layered identities and lived experiences within the community. These design choices were intentionally selected to reflect the diversity and intersectionality of the TQ+ population. "Visit Philadelphia is honored to present In Plain Sight as a meaningful tribute to the TQ+ community. This sculpture is a visible reminder of Philadelphia's commitment to being a welcoming place for all," said Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia. "When travelers come here, we want them to feel our city's love, pride and spirit. Representation matters and research supports that. LGBTQ+ travelers spend more, travel more often and are more likely to choose destinations where they feel seen and affirmed." According to Community Marketing & Insights (CMI), 63% of LGBTQ+ travelers view Philadelphia as a welcoming destination. A separate study found that 73% of LGBTQ+ travelers say increased inclusivity has made them feel more comfortable while traveling. The community also represents an estimated $1.4 trillion in annual purchasing power, with LGBTQ+ travelers spending 33% more than their non-LGBTQ counterparts and taking an average of four to six trips per year. Cherry Street Pier, located on the Delaware River Waterfront, is hosting the installation throughout June. Visit Philadelphia is currently seeking a permanent home for In Plain Sight following Pride Month. Businesses or cultural institutions in Philadelphia or the surrounding counties whose values align with Visit Philadelphia's welcoming mission are encouraged to apply for the opportunity to host the sculpture next. The deadline to submit is Monday, June 23, 2025. "We're proud to host In Plain Sight during Pride Month," said Joseph Forkin, president of the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. "The waterfront is a place for everyone, and Cherry Street Pier — home to a vibrant and diverse creative community — is the perfect location to spotlight this important symbol. We're honored to be part of its journey and can't wait to see where it goes next." Philadelphia's connection to LGBTQ+ history is long and significant. The city was the site of the "Annual Reminder" protests at Independence Hall in the 1960s, one of the first organized gay rights demonstrations in the United States. In 2004, Visit Philadelphia launched Get Your History Straight and Your Nightlife Gay, the country's first LGBTQ-specific tourism television commercial. Two decades later, the organization introduced In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union: Drag Queen Story Time on Independence Mall and in 2024 it sponsored Philadelphia Gay News' successful effort to secure a Guinness World Records title for the largest drag story time reading. "2025 calls for marketers to be bold and brave," said Neil Frauenglass, chief marketing officer, Visit Philadelphia. "Our TQ+ sculpture sends a message to the community that they are seen and welcome in Philadelphia today, next year when we celebrate the country's 250th birthday and always." Visit Philadelphia's welcoming message to LGBTQ+ travelers is also prominently featured in a current New York City advertising takeover, which launched May 5 and runs through June 8. The campaign also includes bonus placements during the Tony Awards and NYC Pride weeks — June 9–15 and June 23–29 — reaching an additional 4.7 million impressions. To learn more about In Plain Sight, please visit About Visit Philadelphia: VISIT PHILADELPHIA® is our name and our mission. As the region's official tourism marketing agency, we build Greater Philadelphia's image, drive visitation and boost the economy. On Greater Philadelphia's official visitor website, visitors can explore things to do, upcoming events, themed itineraries and hotel packages. Compelling photography and videos, interactive maps and detailed visitor information make the site an effective trip-planning tool. Visitors can also find loads of inspiration on Visit Philly's social media channels. CONTACTS:Ashley Carter(856) 236-9439, ashley@ Binh Nguyen(267) 603-4512, binh@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Visit Philadelphia
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Daniel Craig's Queer to open Kashish film festival's 16th edition tomorrow
Powered by actor Daniel Craig, Luca Guadagnino-directed Queer will open the 16th edition of Kashish Pride Film Festival, Mumbai's annual LGBTQ+ film festival, on June 4. The festival, which boasts of being 'diverse and inclusive with representation of the complete LGBTQ+ spectrum', will roll out an impressive line-up of 152 films from 48 countries. 'Earlier, we used to have lesbian, gay or transgender movies. Now, the other members of the spectrum, including non-binary and intersex people are making movies. So, the festival is more inclusive now,' says Sridhar Rangayan, the festival's founder director. Its closing film, 'Close To You', features transgender actor Elliot Page in the lead. The festival's opening ceremony will be held at Bandra's St Andrews Auditorium while the screenings will be held at Cinepolis, Andheri West, from June 4-8. It will also hold screenings at Alliance Francaise, Marine Lines, from June 5 to 8. Some of the major films selected for the festival include Shyam Benegal's 'Mandi', Onir's 'We Are Faheem & Karun', Dutch film 'Out' and 'Odd Fish', which is set in an Icelandic township. Director Deborah Alice Craig's 'Sally!', Mikko Mäkelä's 'Sebastian', Emanuel Parvu's 'Three Kilometers to the End of the World', Patricia Ryczko's 'Reset', and Marcelo Caetano's Baby are the other top picks. 'As the festival turns 16, the programming has become more dynamic. A number of films talk about queer parents and parenting challenges. We also have South Asian countries, such as Myanmar and Bhutan, participating this year,' says Saagar Gupta, the festival's artistic director. While holding the festival for 16 years has been a fulfilling experience, the team has also been dealing with several challenges. 'Across the world, it has become financially challenging to hold a film festival. Donald Trump's anti-LGBTQ+ stand and the UK's trans-phobic policies have made it even more difficult for us. We are supported by the diversity and inclusion budget of corporate companies in India. It's becoming tough to access that,' says Rangayan. Recounting the journey of Kashish, Rangayan shares that in April 2010, its inaugural edition was held at PVR, Juhu, with the aim of creating a 'mainstream space' where the members of queer community as well as their allies could mingle. 'During the pre-Kashish period, we had held screenings of queer films at National College, Bandra, and British Council or Alliance Française. The 2009 Delhi High Court verdict (which decriminalised homosexual acts), gave us the impetus to organise a festival that's more mainstream in nature,' he recalls and adds that it is the first Indian LGBTQ+ festival to be held with approval by the Information & Broadcasting Ministry. Apart from creating a mainstream feel, the festival's aim has been to provide a big-screen experience to delegates as well as make sure they enjoy watching queer movies with their partners, friends and family without 'a sense of shame or guilt', says Rangayan. The festival moved Liberty Cinema in 2014 to accommodate a large number of delegates. This year, the first phase of the festival is being held at Cinepolis and Rangayan hopes it will draw youngsters to the screenings there. The festival schedule and other details can be found at
USA Today
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Dior names Jonathan Anderson as replacement for their first female creative director
Dior names Jonathan Anderson as replacement for their first female creative director Show Caption Hide Caption Anna Delvey struts down the runway in an ankle monitor during NYFW Anna Delvey walked the runway during New York Fashion Week at the One Night in Bangkok fashion showcase, with her ankle monitor. Dior is appointing its menswear designer, Jonathan Anderson, as the fashion house's creative director, who will also oversee womenswear designs and haute couture. The shake-up means he is replacing Maria Grazia Chiuri, who had come over from Valentino and started helming Dior in 2016. Forty-year-old Anderson, founder of the U.K. label JW Anderson and former Loewe creative director, had been named Dior's head of menswear designs in April. "It is a great honor to join the House of Dior as Creative Director of both women's and men's collections," Anderson wrote in a June 1 Instagram post. "I have always been inspired by the rich history of this House, its depth, and empathy. I look forward to working alongside its legendary Ateliers to craft the next chapter of this incredible story." Anderson is credited as the costume designer for two award-nominated films from 2024, "Challengers" and "Queer." In announcing Anderson's expanded role, parent company LVMH's CEO Bernard Arnault called the Northern Irish designer "one of the greatest creative talents of his generation" who will be tasked with "writing the next chapter of the Dior house's history." Thanks to quirky designs that caught the attention — and praise — of fashion critics, Anderson successfully generated buzz around Loewe over the decade he spent at the Spanish label. Signature styles under his tenure include baggy, barrel-legged jeans and the compact Puzzle handbag. Chiuri, as the first female creative director at the label, relayed feminist messages and showcased artwork at her runway shows that featured modern renditions of house classics, including Dior's famous, nipped-waist bar jackets. Her designs often added fluidity and sometimes a sporty flair to feminine silhouettes. Dior joins Chanel and Gucci in high-level shake ups Anderson is one of several new high-profile designers taking over some of the world's biggest fashion labels amid a wide-sweeping industry overhaul, including Chanel and Gucci, over the past year. This time last year, Chanel's artistic director, Virginie Viard, departed after nearly three decades at the fashion house without announcing a successor. Months later, Matthieu Blazy was named the artistic director of fashion activities. (Louise Trotter replaced him at Bottega Veneta.) In February, creative director Sabato De Sarno abruptly left Gucci before Milan Fashion Week. Demna, formerly of Balenciaga, stepped into the role in March. In May, Balenciaga revealed Pierpaolo Piccioli as its new creative director. The appointment came more than a year after Valentino said he would be stepping aside after two decades. The sector is struggling to pull out of a prolonged slump, weighed down by China's property crisis and economic uncertainty in the United States. Top luxury houses are betting on a new design direction to help rekindle interest from shoppers, who have pulled back on fashion as prices rise. Contributing: KiMi Robinson, USA TODAY
CTV News
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- CTV News
JoJo Siwa goes public about finding love with Chris Hughes on ‘Celebrity Big Brother'
JoJo Siwa and Chris Hughes are pictured in a split image. There's been a lot of conversation over the years about JoJo Siwa's romantic relationships and now she's added a new chapter. (Getty Images via CNN Newsource) There's been a lot of conversation over the years about JoJo Siwa's romantic relationships and now she's added a new chapter. In an interview with The Guardian, Siwa, 22, confirmed that she is dating former 'Love Island' cast member Chris Hughes, whom she met when they both participated in a recent season of the UK series 'Celebrity Big Brother.' 'It's not platonic any more, and it's been a beautiful development, a beautiful connection, and I'm absolutely head over heels for him and he's the same way.' Siwa said of her relationship with the man she calls 'sweet Christopher.' Their connection was on display in the 'Celebrity Big Brother' house after Hughes stood up for Siwa when she was feeling targeted by another housemate, actor Mickey Rourke, who made comments about her sexuality. Siwa identifies as queer. It was announced during production that Rourke left the show after 'further use of inappropriate language' and 'instances of unacceptable behaviour.' Siwa and Hughes grew close on the series and were accused of playing it up for the cameras, something she denies. 'No, this is a very genuine connection – we're not faking a thing,' she told The Guardian. Their obvious regard for each other provided fodder for speculation, especially as at the time Siwa entered the house, she was in a relationship with Australian actor Kath Ebbs. Following the end of the show's season, Ebbs released a video on social media saying that Siwa had broken up with them at the wrap party. 'I flew across the world to support and be there and hold that person in whatever they would be experiencing, leaving such a wild experience, and instead, I was dumped at the afterparty, with Chris [Hughes] in the next room,' Ebbs said in the video. 'I was told that there are confused feelings there … and that [Siwa] had realized in the house that I wasn't the person that [she] wanted to spend the foreseeable future with.' Siwa now says she understands the interest in her relationship with Hughes. 'People can see our chemistry, and they got to see it develop,' she said. 'I think everyone's just curious, and I can't blame them.' Siwa, who rose to fame as a child on 'Dance Moms' and has served as a judge on 'So You Think You Can Dance,' has a message for those who believe her relationship with Hughes is a publicity stunt. 'Clearly, you've never been around us. I won't ever speak for him, but for me personally, the happiness in my life just radiates off of me right now,' she said. Hughes's latest social media post is a series of photos with Siwa, captioned: 'The previous 7 days have been the prettiest.'
Cision Canada
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Cision Canada
/R E P E A T -- Experience the Magic of Pride at CF Toronto Eaton Centre/
TORONTO, May 22, 2025 /CNW/ - CF Toronto Eaton Centre is set to become a vibrant hub for Pride month in Toronto, offering an exciting lineup of events that celebrate inclusivity, community spirit, and the rich tapestry of the city's 2SLGBTQ+ community. This June, visitors can look forward to a diverse program featuring a Pride shop, trivia nights, a drag brunch, immersive art, and a unique opportunity to broadcast messages of love. To add to the celebratory atmosphere and provide a backdrop for memorable moments, CF Toronto Eaton Centre will be adorned with Pride-themed décor, including a 40-foot Pride flag and a vibrant rainbow transformation of the centre court staircase, offering a colourful experience for all to enjoy. CF Toronto Eaton Centre Pride 2025 Highlights CF Pride Shop – A Showcase of Queer Creativity: The CF Pride Shop, in collaboration with Toronto Queer Market, returns for its third year and guests are invited to discover a treasure trove of unique finds from 2SLGBTQ+ artisans and entrepreneurs. From dazzling jewellery to cutting-edge fashion and captivating art, the shop features a curated shopping experience that celebrates Queer artistry. The pop-up shop will run for the entire month of June, located on Level 1 of the shopping centre Dates & Time: June 1-30, open during mall hours Location: Level 1, next to Showcase Test Your Knowledge with Pride Trivia at Queen's Cross: In a fresh twist, CF Toronto Eaton Centre is teaming up with QE Trivia to present three exhilarating Pride-themed trivia nights. It's the perfect blend of entertainment and education, with fantastic prizes from property retailers up for grabs. Dates & Time: Thursday, June 12, 19 and 26, 7:00 PM Location: Queen's Cross Food Hall Tickets: $23.50 per person. Click here for full details and to register. Ticket price includes access to great prizing, a free drink upon arrival, and discounted food at Queen Cross. CF Drag Brunch, Presented by OEB Breakfast Co. - A Feast for the Senses: The iconic CF Drag Brunch is back by popular demand, promising an unforgettable afternoon of dazzling performances and delicious delights. Presented by OEB Breakfast Co., the ticketed event features performances by some of Toronto's most sensational drag artists along with a delicious brunch. To accommodate the growing excitement, this year's Drag Brunch will take centre stage at Albert's Way. Date & Time: Sunday, June 22, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM Location: Level 2, Albert's Way Special Guests: Xtacy Love, Beardra Bidness, Destiny, Eboni L'belle, and Just Peachy Tickets: $40 per person. $10 from every ticket sold will be donated to Rainbow Railroad. Ticket holders will also receive a $10 CF SHOP! card and gift bag filled with surprises and goodies. Tickets will be available on June 2nd. Celebration of Indigenous & Queer Identity Through Art: This year, Toronto-based artists Tyler Burey and Paul Crombie are unveiling 'Thunderbird and the birth of Glamour', a new sculptural piece that beautifully intertwines Indigenous and Queer narratives. This artwork reimagines the Thunderbird as a metaphor for queer identity: powerful, radiant, and resilient. Made from wood, sequins, and beads, it bridges tradition and transformation, honouring Indigenous knowledge and queer expression. Date: June 1-30 Location: Level 3, across from Coach Promoting Unity with Pride Love Messages: The heartwarming Pride Love Messages return to CF Toronto Eaton Centre's 90-ft-tall media tower at Yonge and Dundas. Individuals are invited to share messages of love and acceptance to create a vibrant tapestry of solidarity visible to all during the 2025 Toronto Pride Festival on June 28th. Messages can be shared through CF Toronto Eaton Centre's newsletter, social channels and website. Date: June 28th CF Toronto Eaton Centre is committed to creating fun, engaging, and inclusive experiences for all who visit. The centre's Pride 2025 celebrations exemplify this commitment, offering a dynamic program that aims to add to the excitement of the Pride month and resonate with the heart of Toronto. For a complete list of events, activities, and special offers, click here.
