NEWSMAKERS
GALANG to host policy audits for inclusive development
With the support of the Institute of Development Studies and Mama Cash Fund for Women, GALANG will present on May 9 policy audits examining programs and laws intended to alleviate poverty in five target countries: the Philippines, Brazil, China, India, and South Africa. Specifically, the aim of the audits is to quantify the effects of policies on sexual minorities, in order to establish methods that better address the needs of LGBT people in these communities.

NEWSMAKERS
Intersex community holds first summit in Phl
In an effort to gather members of the intersex community in the Philippines, thereby discussing issues that are very specific to them and then bringing the same to the fore, Intersex Philippines (IP) organized its very first summit in the country.
LIFESTYLE & CULTURE
Homophobia and transphobia still a problem in sport
One third of those active in sport conceal their sexual orientation or gender identity within the context of their sporting activities. More than a third of those questioned were unable to name a single organization or individual they could contact in the event of a negative experience or incidence.
NEWSMAKERS
Women reporting greater identity uncertainty are more at risk for hazardous drinking
Mostly lesbian and bisexual women reported the most depression, anxiety, and physical health symptoms; mostly lesbian women reported the highest levels of hazardous drinking. Among those who reported drinking, mostly lesbian women drank the most frequently and reported the most alcohol-related consequences. Mostly lesbian women reported the most identity uncertainty.
NEWSMAKERS
Income inequality fuels status anxiety and sexualization, research shows
As economic inequality continues to grow, researchers say so too will women’s preoccupation with their physical appearance, and the mental health issues that tie in with this.
NEWSMAKERS
Empathy for perpetrators helps explain victim blaming in sexual harassment
It is widely assumed that a lack of empathy for female victims explains why people blame them, but a study found that empathy for the male sexual harasser was a more consistent explanation of variability in victim blame.
NEWSMAKERS
Race-based discrimination, stereotypes still ubiquitous in online communities and mobile apps
The degree to which racial and ethnic minorities perceive race-based partner selection as racist often gets overshadowed by “personal preference” narratives.