The Trump administration has used this pandemic to push through unpopular, discriminatory policies, such as ending protections for LGBTQ patients and closing US borders to those seeking asylum. In a latest display of unimaginable cruelty, ICE announced today that international students will face "immigration consequences" including "the initiation of removal proceedings" if they are taking classes online in the Fall. Considering that many college campuses are pivoting to online learning to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, this could be devastating for hundreds of thousands of students.

"DIY nightlife in New York City is quite an impressive achievement given the high volume of other, more institutional nightlife venues and agendas all through New York’s five boroughs. New York City is known all across the world for its bars, nightclubs, music venues and other social spaces, not only because of the city being a microcosm but also because of the rather lenient limitations of the city’s curfew on alcohol sales, allowing clubs to operate until 4:00 am or later." This article describes the impact of the pandemic on queer nightlife and was written by a senior journalism student following a beat developed and thought about in terms of the "local" in a journalism course at Pratt Institute that was upended by the pandemic.

In a post unrelated to COVID-19 that celebrates a new Pixar short featuring gay characters, a commenter blames homosexuality for “weakened immunity” that they claim has led to COVID-19. This was shared to http://reddit.com/r/insanepeoplefacebook.

The Trevor Project notes concerns with physical and social distancing as it relates to LGBTQ youth. The Trevor Project also highlights their 24/7 crisis line and various mediums for contact which LGBTQ people can call or use if they feel they are in need of help or support. I feel extremely grateful to have an organization like The Trevor Project already established during times like this. I know what it's like to struggle with mental health issues, and I have been fortunate enough to have great support. I know that is not the same case for everyone, and I'm grateful that The Trevor Project can help those in need. #ASU #HST580