January 16–29

As we close out the first month of the year, one thing is clear—2025 is moving fast. The past two weeks have reinforced the urgency of staying engaged, pushing for equity, and embracing the shifts shaping our world. From political battles to technological disruptions, these moments remind us why we show up, why we fight, and why we lead.

Here’s what caught my attention:

Posts: Headlines and Highlights

Ohio’s HB 8 Fallout Continues

Since Governor Mike DeWine signed HB 8 into law, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and educators have mobilized to fight back against its harmful implications. Schools and teachers are now being forced into ethical dilemmas, deciding between following the law and protecting vulnerable students.

Perspective: This law is not about “parental rights”—it’s about control, erasure, and silencing LGBTQ+ youth. The fight for safe, affirming spaces in schools isn’t over. We must continue to show up.

AI and Misinformation Take Center Stage

As AI-generated misinformation and deepfakes grow more sophisticated, the global conversation around regulation has intensified. With elections happening worldwide this year, the threat of AI-driven deception has never been more pressing.

Perspective: AI can be a tool for progress or a weapon of manipulation. Tech leaders and policymakers must prioritize transparency, ethics, and safeguards to ensure innovation serves humanity—not exploits it.

The Legacy Fund Seeks New Board Members

The Legacy Fund, where I’ve proudly served since 2017, is looking for new Advisory Board members to continue shaping LGBTQ+ philanthropy in Central Ohio. This is a critical opportunity for leaders committed to driving impact in our community.

Perspective: Representation in leadership matters. If you’re passionate about LGBTQ+ equity and looking to make a difference, consider applying. Apply here.

Pings: Social Media Moments

A viral tweet from @TransEquality:
“Laws targeting trans youth don’t protect children. They put them in harm’s way.”

D’s Take: The legislative attacks on trans youth continue, but so does resistance. Visibility and advocacy matter now more than ever.

A LinkedIn post from a venture leader:
“Diverse founders still receive less than 2% of VC funding. The data isn’t new—the urgency for change is.”

D’s Take: The numbers don’t lie. We need more than performative allyship; we need funding, resources, and access.

A Threads post from @HRC:
“The fight for equality is far from over. We see the challenges ahead, but we’re not backing down.”

D’s Take: The landscape may be shifting, but our commitment to justice remains unwavering.

Perspectives: Personal Reflections

The past two weeks have reinforced what I already knew—progress is never a straight path. It requires persistence, resilience, and the willingness to stand in the gap when our communities are under attack.

As we move into February, let’s keep showing up for what matters. Let’s continue amplifying voices, taking action, and pushing forward—because if January has proven anything, it’s that 2025 will demand everything from us.

What’s been on your radar these past two weeks? I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop them below or share your own highlights!