Look, pals. When you read through the headlines, it can frequently seem like the cards are stacked against the whole "being queer" thing. You know?

For my birthday this year, I wanted to drum up as much support as possible for All Out, because I have what is called a "serious organizational crush" on this crew. I love them. They've operated for well over a decade, mobilizing + strengthening grassroots networks of organizers that are too often overlooked by massive, institutionalized funders.

In particular, they've got strong ties in Uganda where I've been engaged with the LGBTQ community for the last 10 years. And the situation has just recently deteriorated over there in a pretty serious way. Queer people are essentially in hiding right now after. It's dire. Just look at this Guardian article.

So: for my birthday, don't send me more fan art, as much as I appreciate it. And please stop liking, then unliking, then liking again each of my Instagram posts as a show of solidarity. You can also stop circulating deepfake videos of my "American Idol" audition circa 2003 on TikTok, though it does admittedly bring me joy.

Instead, you may send cash to All Out. Okay?

Love, Robbie

P.S. Please enjoy the cover photo, which is my parents and me heading to a pride event in Rochester, NH wearing hats that have photos of me as a child screaming. You're welcome.