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The Spectrum

The Spectrum

By: Linda Thomas-Fowler
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 The Spectrum is a podcast looking at issues important to the LGBT communities. If you don't happen to associate with one of those letters that's ok! This show is aimed at helping people outside those communities understand just how important these issues are and why we need your support. Political Science Politics & Government Social Sciences
Episodes
  • The Supreme Court Upholds Tennessee's Ban on Gender Affirming Care for Min

    The Supreme Court Upholds Tennessee's Ban on Gender Affirming Care for Min
    Jun 18 2025
    In this urgent episode of The Spectrum (recorded June 18, 2025), we break down the devastating news from the Supreme Court. By a 6-3 decision, the Court has upheld Tennessee's ban on gender-affirming care for minors. This isn't just a blow for transgender children in Tennessee, but for those in 25 other states facing similar bans. We discuss how this decision, much like historical rulings on slavery and segregation, appears to defy logic, legal precedent, and the Constitution itself, seemingly driven by prejudice rather than justice. The potential consequences are dire: families forced to relocate, the risk of unlicensed care, and tragically, an increased risk of suicide among vulnerable youth. This ruling, alongside other recent Court decisions, signals a worrying trend. The only clear path forward, we argue, is at the ballot box. It's a call to action for progressive politicians to stand firm on their principles and for all of us to ensure no one is left behind in the fight for equality. Link to CNN coverage: https://www.cnn.com/2025/06/18/politics/supreme-court-upholds-tennessees-ban-on-gender-affirming-care-for-trans-youth
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    4 mins
  • Housekeeping

    Housekeeping
    Jun 16 2025
    We’ve streamlined how you can enjoy The Spectrum: now, you can watch on YouTube, listen as an audio podcast, or subscribe through our brand-new website at spectrumpodcast.org. Thanks to open-source software, the audio podcast feed is now generated automatically from YouTube—so you’ll always get the latest episodes, whichever way you listen. There are now three easy ways to stay updated: subscribe on our website for email notifications, follow us on YouTube, or use your favorite podcast app with our new RSS feed. All options are free, and your email will never be shared. The Spectrum is ad-free and not-for-profit. Any revenue beyond costs will go to LGBT+ support organizations. Be sure to check out the new website for transcripts, episode links, and more!
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    3 mins
  • A Brief History of Pride

    A Brief History of Pride
    Jun 7 2025
    Welcome to Episode 19 of The Spectrum! In this special Pride Month episode, recorded on June 6, 2025, we dive into the powerful origins and ongoing importance of LGBT+ Pride. Join us as we explore: - What Pride truly means: It's not about arrogance, but about honesty and the unwavering refusal to be ashamed of who you are. We discuss why this concept of pride differs from negative interpretations often heard. - The historical roots of Pride: Discover the early 20th-century organizations like the Society for Human Rights, the Mattachine Society, and the Daughters of Bilitis that paved the way for LGBT+ rights. - The catalyst: The Stonewall Uprising: We break down the events of June 28, 1969, in Greenwich Village, New York City, and how a police raid on the Stonewall Inn sparked a new era of gay liberation. Learn about the dangerous context for LGBT+ individuals in the 1960s and the bravery that led to the riots. - From riots to celebration: How the "Christopher Street Liberation Day" and subsequent marches transformed into the vibrant Pride celebrations we know today, expanding globally. - The enduring fight for visibility: While significant progress has been made, we discuss the current challenges, particularly for transgender people, and why continued visibility and allyship are crucial. - Why your support matters: For straight, cisgender allies, learn how you can stand in solidarity with the LGBT+ community and why your voice is more important than ever. If you want to learn more about the history of Pride, check out these resources: https://www.history.com/articles/pride-month https://www.loc.gov/ghe/cascade/index.html?appid=90dcc35abb714a24914c68c9654adb67 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stonewall_riots https://www.nyclgbtsites.org/site/stonewall-inn-christopher-park/
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    14 mins
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