Richie & John | Substantial Saturday | Hitting Hard With Episode 69: Navigating Challenges Facing the LGBTQ+ Community

Join co-hosts Richie Roy and John McMullen on this week's Substantial Saturday episode of Richie & John as they navigate the slippery political landscape. The duo dives into recent congressional actions, including Maryland U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen’s brave trip to El Salvador to combat wrongful imprisonment of Kilmar Ábrego García, and celebrates the impactful judicial pushback against the Trump administration. They spotlight Harvard's resistance to federal demands, analyze Donald Trump's latest approval ratings, and reflect on the influence of progressive figures like AOC and Bernie Sanders in shaping public opinion. With a focus on political resistance and courage in the face of authoritarianism, the hosts explore the heightened risks and turbulence marginalized communities face today. They conclude with a call to engage with local advocacy, emphasizing the critical roles of gratitude and local media in overcoming community challenges. Tune in for an insightful discussion on how to fight for democracy and stand together in adversity. And, this will be the last episode until the program returns from a brief Spring hiatus on June 2nd.

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Richie & John  April 15, 2025 | Human Rights, Political Crisis & Earth Rattling Events Dominate Newsday Tuesday

In this latest Richie & John episode on Newsday Tuesday, Richie Roy and John McMullen tackle some of the most urgent and contentious current affairs setting off alarms. Amidst Southern California's recent earthquake, the hosts examine the Trump administration's earth-shaking controversial deportation practices that flagrantly disregard court orders, resulting in severe human rights violations. The podcast highlights the growing need for accountability and political scrutiny, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement. Additionally, Richie and John discuss policies that adversely impact gender-affirming care for youth, while addressing the legal battle resulting from a transgender helicopter pilot wrongfully targeted in misinformation campaigns. Alongside a look at how Ken Paxton’s Senate ambitions could influence Texas politics, they also underscore the supportive efforts of communities and educators advocating for marginalized individuals. Richie and John encourage listeners to remain informed and active, emphasizing the pivotal role each person plays in shaping the democratic landscape.

Richie Roy and John McMullen share news, perspective and insight on a variety of topics of interest to people within the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. Veterans of working in national LGBTQ+ Television, Radio and Online Media, the duo cohosts two episodes of the  Richie & John podcast each week, updated on Tuesday and Saturday. 

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