Advocate NL 6/5/26

Hello and Happy Pride Friday folks!

Audience Editor Edgar Ramirez here, five days into experimenting with this newsletter format, hope you're enjoying it! (And if you're not, I'm all for suggestions.)

Speaking of the number five: An index that measures state-level LGBTQ+ inclusion for business leaders has measured a national decline in support for the LGBTQ+ community for the fourth consecutive year, and five states (including one not in the South) were called out.

As Jack Walker reports, the eighth annual State LGBTQ+ Business Climate Index, published by OutLeadership, an LGBTQ+ business network, examines states across five main categories. This year’s report found that states that rank low in the index are performing worse year over year, and that fewer states are placing toward the middle of the 100-point index scale.

On the positive side of things, while five states from the Northeast make up the top 10 best-performing states in this year’s index, the Midwest has two representatives, a region that's close to this writer's heart. Check out Jack's story to find out about the other three.

Regardless of where your state lands, on we march with Pride celebrations, and if you're still putting together your outfit, consider these seven brands that haven't backed down in supporting our community.

To finish up:

• If you're in the Miami-area, June 9 is a big day for this LGBTQ+ candidate
• Don't miss out on the other six stories below!

Have a great weekend, all. I'll be back in your inboxes Monday!

Gay CECOT survivor rebuilds his life in Spain while speaking up for voiceless immigrants in America

Ballroom culture shines at New York City Hall Pride celebration

This NYC LGBTQ+ health clinic is giving away the ultimate Pride Month survival kit

Opinion: What colleges still don’t understand about sexual assault

Trans woman faces assault charges for self-defense despite Wyoming's 'Stand Your Ground' law

Federal judge rules that states can challenge Trump’s campaign against transgender kids