As the summer draws to a close, we bring our August Queer Art + Artists selections to celebrate the influence of queer voices in film, fine art, and music. Visit our Queer Arts + Artists website series to learn more about these artists and their work—and please share your opinions on social media!

The Sandman is the long-awaited fantasy drama TV series based on the 1989–1996 comic book written by Neil Gaiman and published by DC Comics. Critics are applauding the series for its various characters across the LGBTQ spectrum.

Same-sex love, desire, and gender diversity have existed since antiquity. Ishtar – the Mesopotamian goddess of war and sexual love – had the power to assign gender. She and other objects with a special connection to LGBTQ history can be seen in the British Museum’s Desire, Love, and Identity thematic tour,

With Erasure, our Fall Forum, just around the corner, how could we not pay tribute to a band of the same name? Erasure is an English synth-pop duo featuring Andy Bell (singer) and Vince Clarke (keyboards). Their classic 1988 hit, “A Little Respect,” is a Virgin Radio Ultimate Pride Anthem. Listen on Spotify.

JusticeAid grantee partner, SMYAL, is holding its Fall Brunch fundraising event on Saturday, September 24th, 10 AM, at DC’s Marriott Marquis. Hosted by NBC News Anchor Aaron Gilchrist, the event features a silent auction, a three-course meal, and a chance to hear from inspiring youth speakers. Funds raised will support SMYAL‘s comprehensive services for LGBTQ youth, including mental health counseling, housing support, scholarship opportunities, youth leadership training, and community support. Purchase tickets.

Please share this email on social media with friends and colleagues who may be interested in joining us at our DC concert or NYC public forum. Thank you!

JusticeAid leverages the community-building power of art and music to transform awareness into action in the fight against injustice. Each year we identify and raise funds for justice causes by hosting music, arts, and educational events. Since 2013 JusticeAid has granted more than 1.7 million dollars to nonprofits working to ensure access to justice for the disenfranchised and marginalized. Our grantee partners are fighting racist voter suppression and racist policing, working to end mass incarceration and inhumane immigration practices, ensuring access to legal services, and addressing the criminalization and hatred of others.