Defending Democracy, Family Reunions & Celebrating LGBTQ Legends

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shines a light on inspiring stories that affirm the power of democracy, community, and activism. We kick off with a significant ruling from a federal judge who has struck down an executive order aimed at punishing the law firm M. Jenner and Block for its advocacy work. This landmark decision underscores the importance of protecting the First Amendment and the independence of the legal profession, sending a clear message that government overreach will not be tolerated. Next, we celebrate a heartwarming moment for Mahmoud Khalil, a detained Columbia University student and pro-Palestinian activist, who was finally allowed to hold his newborn son after a federal judge intervened. This emotional reunion highlights the ongoing fight for civil liberties and the chilling effects of political retaliation against activists. We also honor the legacy of Frank Kameny, a pioneering figure in the LGBTQ rights movement, who was celebrated on what would have been his 100th birthday. Kameny's fearless activism paved the way for future generations, reminding us that the struggle for equality is ongoing and that each generation must continue the fight. In an exciting development for marine conservation, we explore the Reefline project off the coast of Miami Beach, an innovative underwater park designed to restore the Great Florida Reef while engaging the community through art and science. This project exemplifies how creativity can drive environmental action and inspire collective responsibility for our oceans. Listeners will also hear about a major victory for public lands advocates in Utah and Nevada, where a last-minute attempt to sell off public land was halted thanks to bipartisan action and public outcry. This story showcases the power of civic engagement in protecting our natural heritage. Finally, we discuss Nevada's groundbreaking Assembly Bill 555, which aims to cap out-of-pocket insulin costs at $35 per month for those with private insurance, providing much-needed relief for countless residents struggling with high prescription prices. This initiative reflects a growing trend towards making essential healthcare more accessible. Join us for this empowering episode filled with stories of resilience, justice, and the ongoing fight for a brighter future! This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/Lefties You can find out more about GNFL 's daily news stories here: https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/5316800-judge-finds-trump-order-targeting-law-firm-jenner-block-unlawful/ https://abc7ny.com/post/columbia-student-pro-palestinian-activist-mahmoud-khalil-set-appear-before-judge-louisiana/16504197/ https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-news/frank-kameny-lgbtq-gay-rights-100th-birthday-rcna207654 https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/reefline-miami-beach https://www.sfgate.com/national-parks/article/outcry-stops-public-lands-sale-nevada-utah-zion-20340854.php https://nevadacurrent.com/2025/05/22/lawmakers-advance-proposal-to-cap-insulin-costs-at-35-per-month/ If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com If you like Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, The MeidasTouch Podcast, and Pod Save America, you'll LOVE Good News For Lefties! You can connect with us and catch even more daily progressive news on Facebook , Bluesky , and Instagram . Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support .