A BAD PENNY ALWAYS TURNS UP: THE ODYSSEY OF PENNY SCHWINN, PRIVATIZATION'S TYPHOID MARY

 A BAD PENNY ALWAYS TURNS UP

THE ODYSSEY OF PENNY SCHWINN, PRIVATIZATION'S TYPHOID MARY 

In the grand theater of education reform, where billionaires play puppet masters and public schools are the stage, one character consistently steals the spotlight: Penny Schwinn. If school reform were a spy thriller, she’d be the hitman with a clipboard, armed with no-bid contracts and a penchant for privatization. Let’s dive into the saga of the woman whose name makes public school advocates shudder and billionaire reformers cheer.

The Rise of Bad Penny

Penny Schwinn’s journey reads like a playbook for the privatization movement. From running her own charter school to serving on the Sacramento County Board of Education, she quickly ascended the ranks of the education reform elite. Her resume is a greatest-hits list of privatization hotspots: California, Texas, Tennessee, and even Washington, D.C. Wherever she goes, controversy and conflict follow like an over enthusiastic groupie.

Schwinn isn’t just a darling of the billionaire class; she’s practically their mascot. Trained at the Eli Broad Academy—a superintendents’ boot camp for dismantling public education—she’s been groomed to execute their vision. Whether it’s charter schools or public-private partnerships, Schwinn is there to grease the wheels of privatization, often with a smile that says, “Trust me, I’m here to help.” Spoiler alert: she’s not.

The Copper Penny Conundrum

How bad is Penny Schwinn? Even Donald Trump reportedly raised an eyebrow. During her time in Tennessee, Schwinn courted controversy like it was a competitive sport. She faced scrutiny over textbook adoption processes, no-bid contracts, and an $8 million deal with TNTP Inc.—a nonprofit founded by Teach For America’s Wendy Kopp. Fun fact: her husband works for TNTP. Conflict of interest, anyone?

Of course, Schwinn filed a conflict of interest report and assured everyone that she had nothing to do with the contract’s evaluation. But lawmakers weren’t buying it. State Rep. Bo Mitchell and Sen. Mike Bell were among those who cried foul, pointing out that even the appearance of impropriety was enough to warrant investigation. It’s like saying, “Sure, the fox was in the henhouse, but he promised not to eat anything.”

The Typhoid Mary of Privatization

Schwinn’s career has been a masterclass in how to infuriate parents, teachers, and public school advocates. Her tenure in Tennessee alone could fill a scandal scrapbook. From questionable contracts to canceled child welfare programs, she’s left a trail of discontent that spans multiple states. It’s no wonder some have dubbed her the “Typhoid Mary of Privatization.” Wherever she goes, public education seems to fall ill.

And let’s not forget her husband, Paul Schwinn. He’s also in education, working for TNTP—a nonprofit with billionaire backing that aims to reform teacher training. Together, the Schwinns are like the Bonnie and Clyde of education reform, except instead of robbing banks, they’re accused of undermining public schools.

Penny Does D.C.

After her tumultuous stint in Tennessee, Schwinn set her sights on Washington, D.C., seeking a deputy secretary post in the U.S. Department of Education under the Trump administration. To smooth over potential conflicts of interest (and perhaps her reputation), she pledged to cut financial ties with various entities she was affiliated with. This included resigning from positions at companies like 38 Ventures LLC and divesting interests in firms like Soliant Health LLC.

But promises are one thing; trust is another. Schwinn’s past ethical lapses have left many skeptical of her intentions. Her critics argue that her career is less about improving education and more about advancing a privatization agenda. It’s like hiring a fox to guard the henhouse—again.

A Family Affair

The Schwinns’ involvement in education reform highlights a broader issue: the incestuous nature of the privatization movement. Organizations like TNTP and Teach For America are often staffed by alumni from the same small pool of elite institutions and funded by the same cadre of billionaires. It’s a revolving door where everyone knows everyone, and conflicts of interest are just part of the decor.

If education reform were a soap opera, this would be its most dramatic plotline: billionaires pulling strings behind the scenes while their loyal operatives execute their vision on the ground. And at the center of it all is Penny Schwinn, ever the reliable player in this high-stakes game.

The Billionaire Connection

Schwinn’s ties to billionaire-backed organizations like the Broad Academy and TNTP are no coincidence. These groups have long been accused of prioritizing profit over students, pushing for policies that benefit private interests at the expense of public education. Critics argue that their ultimate goal is to turn schools into businesses, where students are customers and teachers are expendable.

Schwinn’s career trajectory mirrors this agenda. From her early days in California to her controversies in Tennessee, she has consistently championed policies that align with the privatization movement. Whether it’s charter schools or public-private partnerships, her actions often seem designed to weaken public education rather than strengthen it.

The Verdict on Bad Penny

So, what’s the final word on Penny Schwinn? To her supporters—mainly billionaire reformers—she’s a visionary leader who gets things done. To her critics—parents, teachers, and public school advocates—she’s a relentless force for privatization who leaves chaos in her wake.

One thing is certain: a bad penny always turns up. And when it does, you can bet there will be controversy, conflict, and plenty of headlines. For better or worse, Penny Schwinn has cemented her place as one of the most polarizing figures in education reform. Whether she’s a hero or a villain depends on which side of the privatization debate you’re on.

But if history is any guide, this isn’t the last we’ll hear of Penny Schwinn. After all, bad pennies don’t just turn up—they stick around.

Former Tennessee education leader promises feds she will cut conflicts • Tennessee Lookout https://tennesseelookout.com/2025/05/29/former-tennessee-education-leader-promises-feds-she-will-cut-conflicts/ 

Education commissioner runs into possible conflict with $8M contract https://tennesseelookout.com/2021/03/22/education-commissioner-runs-into-possible-conflict-with-8m-contract/ 

EDUCATION MALPRACTICE? – Dad Gone Wild https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2020/08/education-malpractice-dad-gone-wild.html 

Big Education Ape: PENNY DOES DC https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/01/penny-does-dc.html 

Big Education Ape: Schwinn resigns from Sacramento County Office of Education board - Education - The Sacramento Bee https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2013/07/schwinn-resigns-from-sacramento-county.html 

Former TX SPED Director, Laurie Kash, Wins Wrongful Termination Lawsuit; TN “Wins” Penny Schwinn (?) | deutsch29 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2019/11/former-tx-sped-director-laurie-kash.html

 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!
6-2-25

Pope Leo Will Send a Video Message to Chicago Mass on Same Day as Trump's Parade https://dianeravitch.net/2025/06/01/pope-will-send-a-video-message-to-chicago-mass-on-same-day-as-trumps-parade/ via @dianeravitch 

### Key Points

- Pope Leo plans to send a video message to a Mass in Chicago, potentially addressing a million people, on the same day as Trump’s expensive military parade celebrating his birthday. 

- The blog post highlights the contrasting values of Pope Leo, who emphasizes love, compassion, and care for the vulnerable, versus those attributed to “Republican Jesus,” which prioritize wealth and exclusion. 

- Comments on the blog reflect differing opinions about Pope Leo’s stances, with some supporting his humanity and others critiquing his adherence to traditional Catholic teachings. 

- The post implies admiration for Pope Leo’s alignment with Biblical values and his divergence from MAGA-related ideologies. 

CURMUDGUCATION: ICYMI: Summer Launch Edition (6/1) https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/06/icymi-summer-launch-edition-61.html

This article is a roundup of recent education-related news and commentary, featuring topics such as education policies, controversies, and reflections on teaching practices. It highlights various issues like AI's role in education, name policies for students, charter school reforms, and school voucher debates.

### Key Points

- Summer vacation begins for some, with a curated list of education-related readings. 

- Updates on Penny Schwinn, a controversial figure moving to a federal role. 

- Teachers are reminded of the importance of learning from students. 

- Criticism of strict phone policies in schools and their outcomes. 

- Controversy in Brevard Schools over chosen name usage without permission. 

- AI's potential role in education is discussed, with skepticism about its "miracle" claims. 

- Georgia high school cancels "The Crucible" due to complaints of demonic themes. 

- A college student pleads guilty to hacking PowerSchool and extortion. 

- Pennsylvania's unfinished cybercharter school reform is revisited. 

- Declining Democrats for Education Reform (DFER) seek relevance in the MAGA era. 

- The state of California's charter school movement is analyzed. 

- A critique of weak educational leadership and its impact on schools. 

- Concerns raised about the "Science of Reading" and its direction. 

- Reflection on past predictions about MOOCs and their failure to disrupt universities. 

- Fresno superintendent faces backlash for using AI-generated data in union accusations. 

- Criticism of AI's use in policy reports, highlighting inaccuracies. 

- Voucher language in legislation is criticized as harmful to education. 

- Updates on a new season of "Phineas and Ferb" and a newsletter invitation. 

- Commentary on the lack of a teacher shortage and other education myths. 

- Exploration of social and emotional learning's role in schools. 

- Discussion on the negative effects of school vouchers and privatization. 

CURMUDGUCATION: The Trouble With Public-Private Partnerships https://curmudgucation.blogspot.com/2025/06/the-trouble-with-public-private.html 

The article discusses the challenges and ethical concerns surrounding public-private partnerships in education, using the McKeesport School District's failed collaboration with Dick’s Sporting Goods as an example. The partnership, initiated in 2021, ended due to disagreements over control and decision-making, raising questions about corporate influence in public schools.

### Key Points

- The McKeesport School District partnered with Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation in 2021, receiving $13 million in funding for facilities and programs. 

- The partnership ended due to conflicts with district leadership, as Dick’s sought greater influence in decision-making, which the school board resisted. 

- The author raises concerns about private corporations exerting control over public schools, arguing this undermines democratic processes and community autonomy. 

- Dick’s remains open to future partnerships under new leadership, making their funding a potential election issue in the district. 

glen brown: Ants and Their Unified Purpose https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2025/06/ants-and-their-unified-purpose.html 

The article reflects on themes of selflessness, unity, and humanity's moral shortcomings, using an anecdote about ants working together to survive as a metaphor for collective effort and sacrifice. It critiques human indifference and emphasizes the value of mutual aid, drawing comparisons between the behavior of ants and human society.

### Key Points

- The story of ants forming a living pyramid to survive demonstrates their selflessness and unity, contrasting with human tendencies towards individualism and indifference. 

- The author's emotional journey moves from condemnation of the ants to admiration for their discipline, sacrifice, and mutual aid, ultimately leading to self-reflection and critique of human behavior. 

- The anecdote serves as a broader metaphor for humanity's need to prioritize unity and compassion over selfish pursuits. 

- The blog incorporates additional musings on justice, social issues, and reflections on writing and resistance, interspersed with various personal and societal critiques. 

Tell Congress: Don’t Let Linda McMahon Slash Funding for Children, College Students, and Veterans to Fund School Choice.  - Network For Public Education https://networkforpubliceducation.org/tell-congress-dont-let-linda-mcmahon-slash-funding-for-children-college-students-and-veterans-to-fund-school-choice/ 

### Key Points

- Linda McMahon, appointed by Donald Trump, has proposed the most severe education budget cuts in U.S. history, eliminating $8.5 billion across 28 programs and consolidating 18 programs into a $2 billion block grant. 

- States are prohibited from using the block grant to fund critical programs such as aid for migrant children, English Language Acquisition grants, community schools, teacher effectiveness initiatives, and services for students with disabilities. 

- Higher education programs face drastic cuts, including a $1,400 reduction in Pell Grants, an 80% cut to Federal Work-Study, elimination of TRIO programs, and defunding of campus childcare programs. 

- $1.67 billion in student college assistance has been eliminated, while funding for federal Charter Schools increased to $500 million. A $5 billion private school voucher scheme is being pushed through Congress under the Educational Choice for Children Act. 

- The proposed budget is described as an attack on public education, aiming to privatize and undermine opportunities for children in America. Advocacy efforts are encouraged to oppose these measures. 

Seattle Schools Community Forum: Seattle Schools, Week of June 2-6, 2025 https://saveseattleschools.blogspot.com/2025/06/seattle-schools-week-of-june-2-6-2025.html?spref=tw 

Seattle Schools Community Forum provides updates on Seattle Public Schools' events, issues, and policies for the week of June 2-6, 2025. Key topics include Board meetings, budget hearings, audits, policy changes, and safety concerns.

### Key Points

- The Board will hold an Executive Session on June 2nd to discuss legal matters and a public hearing on the 2025-2026 Budget on June 4th. 

- An internal audit at Ballard High School highlighted concerns about improper handling of student records, recommending stricter file management practices. 

- Approval of an Interlock Agreement with the City of Seattle for Memorial Stadium redevelopment, including revenue-sharing terms and youth education initiatives. 

- Introduction of budget resolutions, a school lunch price increase, and numerous policy changes, including adjustments to public testimony rules and safety policies. 

- Safety concerns from Garfield High School's student survey included poor lighting, vaping, and fights, with suggestions for better monitoring near bathrooms. 

- The Board plans a retreat on June 7th, with no agenda available yet. 

Chall’s Missing STAGES OF READING DEVELOPMENT in the Science of Reading - Nancy Bailey's Education Website https://nancyebailey.com/2025/06/01/challs-missing-stages-of-reading-development-in-the-science-of-reading/

Nancy Bailey's Education Website Revive, Rally and Recover Public Schools Activism School Curriculum Other Countries Chall’s Missing STAGES OF READING DEVELOPMENT in the Science of Reading June 1, 2025 By Nancy Bailey Leave a Comment Post Views: 19 In a sense, each teacher adds by putting a brick upon another brick in a child’s reading development. And together all build a great structure. ~Jeanne S. Chall, Stages of Reading Development (1983, p. 169) Searching the so-called Science of Reading (SoR) research, one may spot citations from the late Harvard reading Professor Jeanne Chall. Her book, Learning to Read: The Great Debate, examined reading research from 1910 to 1965, showing the importance of phonics, especially for children with reading difficulties and the poor. It became a lightning rod involving debate between the phonics/whole language camps (Rothman, 1990). Today, while

### Key Points

- Jeanne Chall's work highlighted the importance of phonics but also emphasized developmental stages in reading, contrasting with the current push for early reading in kindergarten. 

- Chall's "Stages of Reading Development" suggests formal phonics instruction begins in first grade, not earlier, aligning more with Finland's educational practices. 

- Early reading studies by Chall and others show that children develop reading skills at different rates, and pressuring them to read early can hinder natural development. 

- Chall's Stage 0 (Prereading) focuses on foundational skills like listening, memory, and language development, rather than direct phonics instruction. 

- Chall advocated for enjoyable, developmentally appropriate early learning experiences and criticized the rigid standardization of reading expectations. 

- She emphasized the importance of excellent teachers, individualized progress, and diverse reading methods beyond phonics. 

- Chall believed children learn to read at their own pace, and standardized tests should not dictate their progress. She stressed the need for reading specialists and flexible teaching approaches. 

- Revisiting Chall's developmental reading stages and theories could improve current practices and reduce unnecessary pressure on young learners. 

Testimony concerning the privacy violations of NYC Teenspace | Class Size Matters Testimony concerning the privacy violations of NYC Teenspace | A clearinghouse for information on class size & the proven benefits of smaller classes https://classsizematters.org/testimony-concerning-the-privacy-violations-of-nyc-teenspace/ 

Benefits of Small Classes, Privacy Concerns, and Advocacy Efforts

### Key Points

- Testimony was presented to the NYC Council Health Committee regarding privacy violations related to Talkspace, a platform contracted by the NYC Dept. of Health to provide mental health counseling for teens. 

- Advocacy for the implementation of a multi-year strategy to reduce class sizes in NYC schools, as mandated by a 2022 law. 

- Information about the "Talk out of School" radio show and podcast, which discusses public school issues at local and national levels. 

- Announcement of the Annual Parent Action Conference on June 7, 2025, featuring keynote speaker Jamaal Bowman. 

- Resources and updates provided for parents and advocates, including petitions, surveys, and newsletters about class size and education policies. 

- Recent posts highlight ongoing concerns such as student privacy, DOE’s class size plan, and upcoming events. 

An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else: Ravitch, Diane: 9780231220293: Amazon.com: Books https://www.amazon.com/Education-Changed-Schools-Almost-Everything/dp/0231220294/ref=sr_1_1?

This article discusses Diane Ravitch's upcoming memoir, "An Education: How I Changed My Mind About Schools and Almost Everything Else," set to be released on October 21, 2025. Ravitch, a historian and former conservative education reform advocate, recounts her ideological shift from supporting standardized testing and privatization to advocating for public schools and addressing systemic inequality in education. The book blends personal reflections with decades of research, making a compelling case for greater investment in public education.

### Key Points

- Diane Ravitch's memoir explores her ideological transformation from a proponent of conservative education reforms to a critic of privatization and standardized testing. 

- The book highlights her belief that poverty, not failing schools or bad teachers, is the root cause of educational inequality. 

- Ravitch shares her personal and professional journey, including her government service and advocacy for public schools. 

- The memoir combines personal anecdotes with research to argue for systemic changes in education, including better support for professional teachers. 

- Published by Columbia University Press, the book is 240 pages long and will be available in multiple formats. 

Big Education Ape: WE DON'T DO KINGS: NATIONWIDE PROTESTS TO RAIN ON TRUMP'S $45M BIRTHDAY MILITARY PARADE #NoKingsDay #DefendDemocracy #AmericaStrong https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/we-dont-do-kings-nationwide-protests-to.html 

Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights
A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts!

5-31-25    

The article is a compilation of various educational, political, and social topics, including critiques of policies, reform initiatives, societal challenges, and reflections on democracy, education, and climate change. It features discussions on Trump’s presidency, school voucher systems, class size reduction in NYC schools, climate change impacts, and Diane Ravitch's ideological transformation in her upcoming memoir.

### Key Points  

- The Trump administration inflicted chaos on prestigious U.S. science agencies through layoffs, budget cuts, and political interference, undermining research and morale.   

- Right-wing media exaggerated claims about Biden’s mental state, contrasting his achievements with Trump’s erratic presidency.   

- A Venezuelan high school student, Dylan, was detained by ICE despite entering the U.S. legally, sparking protests and legal battles.   

- A federal judge restored the visa of a Russian scientist detained for minor customs violations, raising concerns about academic freedom.   

- The article critiques systemic failures under Trump, emphasizing the need for reforms to uphold democracy and combat inequality.   

- Ted Cruz proposed a federal voucher program and investment accounts for newborns, but critics questioned their effectiveness and equity.   

- Diane Ravitch’s memoir outlines her shift from supporting privatization to advocating for public education and addressing systemic inequality.   

- NYC schools are reducing class sizes by hiring 3,700 teachers and investing $400 million, following state law mandates.   

- The UFT elections in 2025 highlighted internal conflicts, with ARISE focusing on positive campaigns and Unity facing criticism for unethical practices.   

- Teacher Tom advocates for play-based education to foster intrinsic motivation and critiques traditional systems that rely on rewards and punishments.   

- New legislation aims to expand school choice through tax credits, but critics warn of resource diversion from public schools.   

- Penny Schwinn’s confirmation hearing for a federal role raised concerns about her financial dealings and MNPS budget debates.   

- Seattle Public Schools faced criticism over governance, nepotism, and school closures, with Director Liza Rankin’s op-ed sparking public outrage.   

- Climate change forecasts predict intensified extreme weather and rising sea levels, with global warming breaking records.   

- The "Science of Reading" movement is critiqued as perpetuating manufactured crises and failing to address real educational needs. 

 

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Big Education Ape: Yesterday’s Gems, Today’s Insights: A Roundup of the Web’s Finest Blog Posts! 5-20-25 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/yesterdays-gems-todays-insights-roundup_20.html

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Big Education Ape: TRUMP'S AMERICA: THE PALL OF DARKNESS GRIPS OUR LAND https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/trumps-america-pall-of-darkness-grips.html 

Big Education Ape: HABEMUS PAPAM: THE TALE OF POPE LEO XIV AND THE WINDS OF CHANGE + TRANSCRIPT: Pope Leo XIV’s first speech, in English https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/habemus-papam-tale-of-pope-leo-xiv-and.html 

Big Education Ape: THE PRESIDENT HAS DECLARED WAR... ON AMERICA? https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/the-president-has-declared-war-on.html 

Big Education Ape: WILL HISTORY HOLD BILL GATES ACCOUNTABLE FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF PUBLIC EDUCATION IN THE UNITED STATES https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/will-history-hold-bill-gates.html 

Big Education Ape: THE CORNERSTONES OF LIBERTY: HABEAS CORPUS, DUE PROCESS AND THE RULE OF LAW IN THE AGE OF TRUMP https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/the-cornerstones-of-liberty-habeas.html 

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Big Education Ape: TOP POSTS THIS MONTH - APRIL 2025 https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2025/05/top-posts-this-month-april-2025.html 

JUNE IS BUSTING OUT ALL OVER: PRIDE MONTH 2025 IS HERE #PrideMonth 🌈 #Pride2025 🌈 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning

 
 

JUNE IS BUSTING OUT ALL OVER: PRIDE MONTH 2025 IS HERE

🌈LET'S ALL CELEBRATE AND HAVE SOME FUN🌈

Ah, June—when the sun shines brighter, the days grow longer, and the rainbow flags flutter high and proud. That’s right, folks, it’s Pride Month! A time for celebration, reflection, and maybe even a little glitter-induced chaos. Whether you're a seasoned parade-goer or a first-time ally, there’s room for everyone at this fabulous party. So grab your most colorful outfit (sequins optional but encouraged), and let’s dive into the glittery world of Pride 2025.

🌈A Quick History Lesson (Because Knowing Stuff is Sexy)

Pride didn’t start with corporate-sponsored floats or catchy hashtags—it began with a riot. Picture this: It’s 1969, and the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village is one of the few safe havens for LGBTQ+ folks in New York City. But on June 28, police raided the bar (again), harassing patrons just for existing. This time, though, the community fought back. For five days, they protested, marking the beginning of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.

Fast forward to today: June is officially Pride Month, thanks to proclamations from Presidents Clinton, Obama, and Biden. The Stonewall Inn is now a national monument, and the rainbow flag—originally designed by Gilbert Baker in 1978—waves proudly around the world. Each color on that flag represents something beautiful about life and identity. (Fun fact: The original flag had nine colors. Pink fabric was too hard to source at the time, so it was eventually simplified. Who knew rainbows had supply chain issues?)

🌈GLAAD Media Reference Guide – 11th Edition | GLAAD https://glaad.org/reference?

🌈What’s Happening This Year?

Pride 2025 is shaping up to be a whirlwind of parades, parties, and protests—because let’s face it, we still have work to do. Here are some highlights:

🌈Pride parades 2025: Dates, cities, when to celebrate around the US https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/06/01/pride-month-parades-2025/83880446007/

Chicago: The Windy City Gets Fabulous

Chicago is pulling out all the stops this year. Pride Fest on June 21-22 promises something for everyone: performances by Jesse McCartney and Deborah Cox (yes, *that* Deborah Cox), a drag extravaganza called "Best of Chicago," and even a Proud Pet Parade. Because nothing says “equality” like a dachshund in a rainbow tutu.

The iconic Chicago Pride Parade will march through Boystown on June 29 with the theme "United in Pride." Community Grand Marshals Dr. Maya Green and Dr. Catherine Creticos will lead the charge, proving that science and sass can coexist beautifully.

🌈Smaller Towns, Big Hearts

Pride isn’t just for big cities anymore. Suburban celebrations like Buffalo Grove’s Produce Parade and Elgin Pride are making waves. These events provide vital visibility for LGBTQ+ folks in areas where acceptance can feel harder to come by. So if you’re in the ‘burbs, grab your glitter and join the fun!

🌈Sports Teams Join the Party

Even sports teams are getting in on the action. The Chicago Cubs will host their Pride Night on June 12 at Wrigley Field, complete with special merch that’ll make you say, “Take me out to the gay ball game.” Not to be outdone, the White Sox are hosting their own Pride Night on June 18 at Rate Field. Who says sports and sequins don’t mix?

🌈The Serious Stuff: Challenges in 2025

Of course, not everything is rainbows and sunshine. This year’s Pride celebrations come amidst rising anti-LGBTQ+ incidents and legislation. Over 700 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced across the U.S., targeting everything from healthcare access to drag performances. Utah and other conservative states have even banned LGBTQ+ flags at government buildings and schools. (Because apparently, a piece of fabric is *that* threatening.)

Corporate sponsorships are also taking a hit as companies face backlash for supporting LGBTQ+ causes. Some major Pride festivals are scrambling to fill funding gaps through community donations and crowdfunding. It’s a stark reminder that while progress has been made, the fight for equality is far from over.

But here’s the thing about the LGBTQ+ community: resilience is practically its middle name. Organizers are leaning into grassroots support, returning Pride to its activist roots while still keeping it festive. After all, what’s a revolution without a little sparkle?

🌈How You Can Get Involved

Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally looking to show your support, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Pride Month:

1. **Educate Yourself**: Read books or watch documentaries about LGBTQ+ history. The more you know, the better ally you can be.

2. **Support LGBTQ+ Businesses**: From bakeries to bookstores, your dollars can make a difference.

3. **Donate to LGBTQ+ Organizations**: Groups like GLAAD are doing vital work advocating for equality and tracking anti-LGBTQ+ hate incidents.

4. **Attend Events**: Whether it’s a parade, concert, or panel discussion, showing up matters.

5. **Speak Up**: Use your voice (and your social media) to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Remember: silence isn’t golden—it’s complicit.

🌈Resources You Need Right Now

Feeling overwhelmed by all this information? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with some handy resources:

🌈Pride Facts | GLAAD https://glaad.org/pridefacts?

🌈- **GLAAD Media Reference Guide**: Perfect for journalists or anyone who wants to brush up on LGBTQ+ terminology.

🌈- **Incident Reporting Form**: Help GLAAD track anti-LGBTQ+ hate incidents.

🌈- **Digital Toolkits**: Learn how to be an effective advocate year-round.

Why Pride Still Matters

Sure, Pride Month is fun—who doesn’t love a good parade or an excuse to wear head-to-toe glitter? But it’s also deeply important. It’s a time to honor those who fought for LGBTQ+ rights before us, from Marsha P. Johnson to Harvey Milk. It’s a chance to reflect on how far we’ve come—and how far we still need to go.

Most importantly, Pride reminds us that everyone deserves to live authentically and unapologetically. Whether you’re waving a flag at a parade or quietly supporting from the sidelines, your presence matters.

So this June, let’s celebrate love in all its forms—and maybe throw in a dance party or two for good measure. Happy Pride Month! 🏳️‍🌈

🌈SOME RESOURCES AND NEWS🌈

🌈GLAAD https://glaad.org/ 

🌈Pride Facts | GLAAD https://glaad.org/pridefacts?

🌈GLAAD Media Reference Guide – 11th Edition | GLAAD https://glaad.org/reference?

🌈Pride parades 2025: Dates, cities, when to celebrate around the US https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/06/01/pride-month-parades-2025/83880446007/

🌈What inspired Pride Month and why is it celebrated in June? https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/05/31/pride-month-origins-june-2025/83917817007/ 

🌈Scared advertisers, flag bans and Trump: the US is in for a troubled Pride 2025 | US news | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/may/29/pride-month-trump 

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate and honor the LGBTQ+ community and their contributions to history, society and culture. Pride Month also raises awareness and advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and equality. Here are some of the ways you can join the celebration and show your support for the LGBTQ+ community.

🌈- Learn about the history and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall riots of June 1969, which sparked the gay rights movement. Since then, the LGBTQ+ community has made significant progress in achieving legal recognition and social acceptance, but also faced many challenges and struggles. You can learn more about the history, diversity, and issues of the LGBTQ+ community by reading books, watching documentaries, listening to podcasts, and following LGBTQ+ media outlets. You can also visit museums, monuments, or landmarks that honor LGBTQ+ history and culture. Some of the resources you can use to learn more about LGBTQ+ history and culture are:

•   - LGBTQ Resource List by GLAAD: https://www.glaad.org/resourcelist
•   - LGBTQ Studies: A Resource Guide by Library of Congress: https://www.loc.gov/lgbt-pride-month/resources/
•   - Making Gay History: The Podcast by Eric Marcus: https://makinggayhistory.com/

🌈- Participate in pride events and activities. During Pride Month, many cities and towns host pride parades, festivals, rallies, and other events that showcase the diversity and pride of the LGBTQ+ community. You can join these events as a participant or a spectator, and enjoy the music, art, entertainment, and speeches. You can also attend workshops, webinars, or panels that discuss LGBTQ+ topics and perspectives. You can also organize your own pride events or activities with your friends, family, or colleagues. Some of the resources you can use to find or plan pride events and activities are:

•   - Pride Month  | Advocate.com https://www.advocate.com/search/?q=pride+month
•   - Pride Month Events by Human Rights Campaign: https://www.hrc.org/events/pride
•   - How to Map and Plan your Pride Event or Parade accurately in OnePlan!: https://www.oneplan.io/map-and-plan-a-pride-event/?

🌈- LGBTQ+ youth are a vulnerable and resilient group that need support and affirmation from their families, peers, and communities. Some of the ways you can support LGBTQ+ youth are:

🌈- Listen to LGBTQ+ youth: Be open and respectful to their experiences, feelings, and needs. Don't judge, criticize, or invalidate them. Ask them how they want to be supported and what they are comfortable with. Let them know that you care about them and accept them for who they are⁴¹.

🌈- Educate yourself and others: Learn about the diversity, history, and issues of the LGBTQ+ community. Avoid making assumptions or stereotypes about LGBTQ+ people based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Use inclusive and affirming language and pronouns for LGBTQ+ people. Challenge homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, and other forms of discrimination and prejudice when you encounter them. Share accurate and positive information about LGBTQ+ people with others⁴ .

🌈- Create a safe and supportive environment: Make your home, school, workplace, or community a welcoming and respectful place for LGBTQ+ people. Display signs, stickers, or flags that show your support for the LGBTQ+ community. Join or start a Genders & Sexualities Alliance (GSA) club or network at your school or workplace. Participate in LGBTQ+ events, such as pride parades, festivals, or workshops. Advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and policies that protect LGBTQ+ people from discrimination and violence⁴ .

🌈- Donate or volunteer for LGBTQ+ organizations: Support the work of LGBTQ+ organizations that provide services, resources, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth. You can donate money, time, skills, or items to these organizations. You can also volunteer as a mentor, counselor, educator, or activist for LGBTQ+ youth. Some of the organizations that support LGBTQ+ youth are The Trevor Project, GLSEN, SAGE, PFLAG, Advocates for Youth, and many more⁴ .

🌈- Seek help when needed: If you or someone you know is struggling with their sexual orientation or gender identity, or facing bullying, harassment, or violence, don't hesitate to seek help. There are many resources and helplines available for LGBTQ+ youth and their allies. You can call, text, chat, or email with trained counselors who can offer support, guidance, and referrals. Some of the resources and helplines for LGBTQ+ youth are The Trevor Lifeline (1-866-488-7386), Q Chat Space, Trans Lifeline (1-877-565-8860), LGBT National Youth Talkline (1-800-246-7743), and many more³ .

🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈These are just some of the ways you can support LGBTQ+ youth. There are many more that you can explore and discover on your own. The most important thing is to be respectful, compassionate, and open-minded towards LGBTQ+ youth and their struggles⁴ .

🌈- Supporting LGBTQ+ youth has many benefits, both for the youth themselves and for the society at large. Some of the benefits are:

🌈-Improved mental health and well-being: LGBTQ+ youth who receive support and acceptance from their families, peers, and communities are more likely to have higher self-esteem, lower levels of depression and anxiety, lower risk of substance abuse and suicide, and greater life satisfaction than those who face rejection and discrimination .

🌈-Increased academic and career success: LGBTQ+ youth who feel safe and supported at school are more likely to have better attendance, grades, test scores, and graduation rates than those who experience bullying, harassment, or exclusion. They are also more likely to pursue higher education and careers that match their interests and abilities .

🌈-Enhanced social and civic engagement: LGBTQ+ youth who have positive role models and mentors in the LGBTQ+ community are more likely to develop a strong sense of identity, belonging, and pride. They are also more likely to participate in LGBTQ+ events, groups, or networks, and to contribute to the LGBTQ+ movement and other social causes .

🌈-Reduced stigma and discrimination: Supporting LGBTQ+ youth helps to create a more inclusive and respectful culture that values diversity and human rights. It also helps to challenge and change the negative attitudes and behaviors that fuel homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, and other forms of oppression. By supporting LGBTQ+ youth, we can foster a more tolerant and compassionate society for everyone .

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