When Elon Musk recently announced his intention to launch a new political party aimed at influencing next year's mid-term elections, he drew a notable comparison to a figure from 4th Century BC Greece.

"The way we’re going to crack the uniparty system is by using a variant of how Epaminondas shattered the myth of Spartan invincibility at Leuctra: Extremely concentrated force at a precise location on the battlefield,” Musk posted on X on Saturday.

This reference points to Epaminondas, a significant but perhaps less commonly known general from antiquity.

Who Was Epaminondas?
Born around 420 BC, Epaminondas lived during a period when his home city of Thebes was under the influence of Sparta, having been defeated in the Corinthian War. The terms of their surrender obliged Thebes to support Sparta militarily. Though Thebes operated as an oligarchy, a desire for change among its younger population, who sought to challenge both their ruling families and Spartan dominance, began to stir.

Epaminondas emerged as a key figure among these reformers. He is recognized as one of history's great military strategists and played a crucial role in the formation of the Sacred Band of Thebes – a unique and elite fighting unit composed exclusively of male couples.

Following a successful uprising against Thebes' oligarchs in 379 BC, Epaminondas anticipated Spartan retaliation. Sparta's military strength lay in its professional, full-time army, a significant advantage over other Greek city-states.


Depiction of Male Homosexuality on an Ancient Greek Kylix (c. 450 BC)

The Genesis of the Sacred Band
Having observed the Spartan military first-hand, Epaminondas understood Thebes' need for its own dedicated, high-calibre force to effectively counter Sparta. He gathered men in same-sex relationships from Thebes' warriors and initiated rigorous, full-time training, with their living costs supported by the city. This group of 150 male pairs formed solemn vows of love and allegiance to each other, thus becoming known as the Sacred Band of Thebes.

Epaminondas recognized that Thebes would likely be outnumbered by Sparta and its allies. His strategy, therefore, needed to be innovative to overcome this disparity.

A Tactical Innovation on the Battlefield
For centuries, Greek battles had largely followed a consistent pattern. Armies would divide their forces equally into opposing phalanxes. The front ranks would form a shield wall, while those behind would project their spears forward. Engagements typically devolved into a chaotic struggle until one side broke and retreated. Spartan tradition involved concentrating their most skilled fighters in their right-most phalanx, with allied forces making up the rest.

Aware of Spartan expectations, Epaminondas adopted a daring new approach at the Battle of Leuctra in 371 BC. He arranged his forces into three shallow, seemingly decoy phalanxes, but crucially, he formed one very deep, extended phalanx on his left flank, with the Sacred Band positioned at its leading edge.

From the Spartan king Cleombrotus's perspective across the battlefield, only the front ranks of Thebes' formations were visible. He did not redistribute his forces to counter Epaminondas's unconventional alignment. When the battle commenced, Epaminondas launched this deep phalanx directly into the Spartan lines, achieving a decisive breakthrough. The Sacred Band then engaged the fleeing Spartans, effectively neutralizing their formidable core. Witnessing the Spartans' unexpected collapse, their allies withdrew from the battle without significant engagement with Epaminondas's other phalanxes.

This victory instantly propelled Thebes to become the dominant city-state in Greece, a position it maintained until Thebes and its Sacred Band were ultimately overcome by Philip II of Macedon and his son Alexander the Great at the Battle of Chaeronea in 338 BC.

The Legacy of the Sacred Band
The belief that these pairs of lovers, without wives and children, would fight with unparalleled dedication to defend one another proved accurate. This resolve was evident at their final stand. After the battle, Philip II reportedly erected a monument honouring the bravery of the Sacred Band. When their mass grave was unearthed in the 19th century, archaeologists discovered 127 pairs of male skeletons, providing a tangible link to their story.

Epaminondas himself had died years earlier, in 362 BC, at the Battle of Mantinea. He was childless and unmarried, and his beloved companions and designated successors, Iolaidas and Daiphantus, also perished in that battle, where Epaminondas secured a final, significant victory for Thebes.

Musk's Contemporary Application
The homosexuality of Epaminondas and the Sacred Band of Thebes is likely incidental to Musk's strategic analogy; it's improbable he was aware of it when making his statement. His invocation of Epaminondas likely signals a plan to target specific Republican-held seats, aiming to diminish their majority in Congress and consequently weaken the party ahead of the next US Presidential Election.

The practical impact of Musk's "America Party"—whether it will secure its own victories or inadvertently benefit Democrats by fragmenting the vote in Republican strongholds—remains to be seen. Regardless, it offers an interesting opportunity to re-examine this compelling, often overlooked, chapter from ancient history.

Josh Cavallo, the trailblazing out gay footballer, has shared a major life update: he's set for an overseas transfer to the UK, and his fiancé is coming with him. The Australian A-League player, who bravely came out publicly as gay in October 2021, confirmed on Monday (July 7) that he's leaving Adelaide United for what he describes as "cloudier skies" in the United Kingdom.

“Farewell, Australia. Greetings UK. It’s not goodbye forever, but now, it’s time to leave the nest with my fiancé by my side,” the midfielder posted on Instagram. “Football and life have taken me further than I ever imagined, and new opportunities have led to a new life waiting for us across the world.”

Cavallo, a prominent advocate for gay rights, highlighted how "living his truth" has "unlocked doors from the pitch to every corner of my personal life." He expressed deep gratitude to his supporters, especially the gay community. “Whether you’ve followed my journey from the beginning or found strength in it along the way, your presence has meant more than words can ever say. Especially to the gay community, you are the reason I never gave up. You helped me see that I wasn’t alone and that none of us are. For the boy who once looked in the mirror and questioned why he was different, this is proof that you can find your place in this world.”

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China's latest offensive against Danmei, a popular genre of gay erotic fiction, is sparking significant backlash rather than achieving its goal of scrubbing "beautiful boy" stories from the internet. Despite the government's harsh stance, a growing chorus of voices is questioning the motives and methods behind this cultural purge.

Often likened to a "gay 'Fifty Shades of Grey'," Danmei explores BDSM relationships across various imaginative settings, consistently leading to a "happily-ever-after." This unique narrative style has captivated a large and dedicated audience, particularly young Chinese women who are also the primary creators of these stories.

Targeting Female Authors with Draconian Laws
The current crackdown heavily targets these female authors. Reports indicate at least 30 women in their twenties have been arrested since February, with many more facing questioning or awaiting trial. Their alleged offense: "producing and distributing obscene material." The penalties are often linked to the financial success of their work, which includes "explicit descriptions of gay sex or other sexual perversions"—a criminalization of content not applied to heterosexual works with similar graphic detail.

This isn't an isolated incident. A previous wave of arrests late last year saw around 50 "Haitang" writers prosecuted, with one prominent author jailed for nearly five years after earning substantial sums. Lawyers note that the current campaign is even more sweeping, affecting "even those with minor involvement." The outdated 2004 law used in these prosecutions has a history of disproportionate sentencing, as seen in the 2018 case where author Tianyi received over a decade in prison for a YA romance.


The Irony of Suppressing a Cultural Powerhouse
The government's crackdown is particularly ironic given Danmei's immense popularity and commercial success. In 2021, 60 Danmei stories were optioned for film and TV adaptations, with one IP selling for a staggering 40 million yuan ($5.6 million). Hit series like "Word of Honor," adapted from a Danmei novel, have achieved global recognition, attracting millions of views and launching the careers of major Chinese stars.

Beyond its economic impact, Danmei offers a unique space for women's expression. The BBC explains that these stories allow women to "write about female desire for other women," often portraying male characters who are vulnerable and even capable of pregnancy—a stark contrast to the often restrictive realities faced by Chinese women in real-life relationships.

A Broader Agenda of "Purification"
The suppression of Danmei is not an isolated incident but rather a symptom of President Xi Jinping's broader push for "purification" across China's internet and cultural industries. This includes other concerning directives, such as the 2021 ban on "effeminate men" on screen, aiming to promote "revolutionary culture" and stamp out "abnormal aesthetics." The ongoing crackdown on Danmei, despite its widespread appeal and financial success, reveals the government's determination to enforce a strict ideological and moral code, even at the cost of stifling popular culture and artistic expression.

A new James Dean biopic is set to explore a seldom-discussed aspect of the icon's life, with Brandon Flynn ("13 Reasons Why," "True Detective") cast as the legendary actor. Titled "Willie and Jimmy Dean," the film is an adaptation of William Bast's 2006 memoir, "Surviving James Dean," which details Bast's purported romantic relationship with Dean.

The project, helmed by writer-director Guy Guido, aims to chronicle the relationship between Dean and Bast, from their first meeting at UCLA to Dean's untimely death in 1955. Bast's memoir claims the two were roommates, close friends, and eventually lovers, keeping their romance hidden to protect Dean's burgeoning career in an era when such relationships were not accepted in Hollywood.

Director Guy Guido stresses that "Willie and Jimmy Dean" is "not a traditional biopic," but rather "a tender and sometimes tragic story about two young men who found each other in a time and place where being seen - truly seen - came at a cost." Flynn's casting is lauded for his ability to bring both "fire and vulnerability" to the role.

Flynn himself expressed enthusiasm for the script, praising its commitment to humanizing Dean and exposing "how Hollywood has historically forced gay people into performance, even in their personal lives." He believes the film will courageously portray Dean as "a man with real, complex relationships," a truth he finds powerful.

"Willie and Jimmy Dean" is currently in development, with casting ongoing for the pivotal roles of William Bast and his mother.

Davis Atkin, a midfielder for Australia's national field hockey team, the Kookaburras, is making waves not just with his skills on the pitch but also with his powerful advocacy for gay inclusion. During Pride Month, Atkin's teammates proudly wore rainbow socks, a clear statement of support for their colleague and a testament to the evolving landscape of professional sports.

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As Neighbours gears up for its final bow later this year, the iconic soap isn't just fading out – it's going out with an audaciously modern bang! While Ramsay Street has seen its fair share of scandalous affairs and dramatic love triangles, viewers are now being treated to a groundbreaking first: a gay love triangle that’s quickly evolving into something even more unique.

Grieving widower Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson) has tentatively re-entered the dating scene, only to find himself unexpectedly reconnecting with not one, but two former flames: Rhett Norman (Liam Maguire) and Colton Keys (Jakob Ambrose). In a twist of fate – or perhaps brilliant writing – the trio recently found themselves vying for Aaron's attention at the same yoga class. Initially advised to pick one, Aaron, ever the rebel, has decided to date them both with no strings attached. Chaos, as you might imagine, is sure to follow.

Actors Liam Maguire and Jakob Ambrose are clearly relishing the ride. Maguire confessed to Yahoo Lifestyle that while competing with Ambrose felt "intimidating," the storyline itself was "heaps of fun." He praised its progressive nature, noting, "it’s so confidently queer while being able to be funny and playful because all the characters are entirely comfortable with who they are." Ambrose echoed this sentiment, calling filming "some of the most enjoyable and silly times" on set. He highlighted the importance of showing "queer characters in a really fun, messy, playful, honest way... all our colours are seen on screen - the happy family, but also the messiness it sometimes takes to get there."

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You know you've made it in Hollywood when your character inspires an adult film parody. But for White Lotus star Patrick Schwarzenegger, the line between art and imitation blurred in a hilariously bizarre gym encounter, bringing the world of prestige television face-to-face with its steamy, satirical counterpart, The Tight Lotus.

Schwarzenegger, 31, who played the memorably problematic Saxon Ratliff in Mike White's critically acclaimed third season, is no stranger to the "weird experiences" fans bring his way. His character's controversial dynamic with younger brother Lochlan (Sam Nivola), particularly the much-debated "incest" undertones, proved fertile ground for pop culture discussion – and, apparently, adult entertainment.

The actor recounted his recent, jaw-dropping moment to W Magazine: While working out, a male fan approached him with an unexpected revelation. "He came up to me and he said, ‘I loved your work in White Lotus, and I had to come up to you because my boyfriend just booked playing Saxon Ratliff in The Tight Lotus."

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Seoul, Korea – K-pop isn't just about chart-topping hits anymore; it's about breaking barriers. And at the forefront of this seismic shift is Just B's Bain, the 24-year-old idol whose recent coming out has sent shockwaves through the industry, marking him as the first active male K-pop group member to openly declare he's gay. His message is clear: "I can finally be free."

Speaking from Seoul with The Hollywood Reporter, the blue-haired singer recounted the electrifying moment in Los Angeles that changed everything. During a solo performance of Lady Gaga's "Born This Way" on Just B's U.S. tour, an unplanned, yet powerful, impulse took hold. "I didn’t actually mean to come out," he explained, "but I felt like I’d lose my chance if I didn’t take it now. It almost felt like a sign from above."

Clad in a dramatic fur coat and sunglasses at Hollywood's Vermont, Bain addressed the roaring crowd: "I’m f***ing proud to be a part of the gay community — as a gay person." He paid homage to Gaga for inspiring him that "being different is beautiful" and shared a message of solidarity: "To anyone out there who’s part of the gay community or still figuring it out; this is for you guys. You are seen, you are loved and you were ‘Born This Way.’”

This revelation is unprecedented in K-pop. It's a moment as significant as Ellen DeGeneres' 90s TV coming out, especially in South Korea where gay rights are slowly progressing (evidenced by a recent landmark health insurance ruling), but public figures rarely identify as gay. Bain joins an elite, brave few.

Bluedot Entertainment, his label, and his Just B bandmates were aware of his sexuality for two years prior. While "certain concerns of public acceptance" were present, Bain affirmed, "overall they really wanted me to fully show and express myself onstage.”

Bain isn't one to shy away from "real matters." He openly admits a preference for the "iconic" over the "boring," driven by a pursuit of "dopamine."

Crucially, this isn't an end to a journey, but "a new start." Bain believes this openness is "broadening my horizons," inspiring him to "dream bigger," including potential U.S. acting roles ("a gay friend in a teen drama") and solo work to tell his authentic stories.

While the initial deluge of public comments, both positive and negative, was "a bit difficult," Bain now embraces it. "If you want to talk about me, please talk away. Good or bad. I welcome it.” His ultimate hope: to empower other queer K-pop artists to embrace their true selves.

Northern Ireland is set to make a significant stride in public health, following the Department of Health's approval of a pioneering gonorrhoea vaccination programme. This decisive move comes hot on the heels of England's announcement to become the world's first nation to roll out such a vaccine, hailed as a "landmark moment for sexual health" globally.

The Northern Ireland health department has confirmed that the vaccination effort against gonorrhoea will kick off this August. Initially, the jab will be prioritised for gay and bisexual men with a recent history of multiple sexual partners or a sexually transmitted infection (STI) – those deemed most vulnerable to contracting the infection.

Northern Irish Health Minister Mike Nesbitt issued a strong call to action, urging all eligible individuals to come forward and get vaccinated. "With gonorrhoea cases soaring, the launch of this world-first vaccine programme is not just important, but incredibly timely for Northern Ireland’s public health," he stated.

"By meticulously targeting those at greatest risk, we have a golden opportunity to stem the tide and dramatically reduce transmission rates of this complex disease, potentially averting thousands of cases over the coming years. STIs aren't merely an inconvenience; they can profoundly impact your health and that of any sexual partners. If you're offered this vaccine, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take it – it's a vital step to protect yourself and others."

The Alarming Rise of Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea remains the most prevalent STI diagnosed in Northern Ireland's sexual health clinics. Figures from the Public Health Agency (PHA) paint a stark picture: cases skyrocketed from 652 in 2021 to a staggering 1,606 in 2022 – the highest number ever recorded by the PHA.

Even in 2023, the trend remained concerning, with 1,561 gonorrhoea cases accounting for almost a third (28%) of all new STI diagnoses across the region. A significant majority of these cases (75%) were male, with gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM) making up 67% of that demographic.

A Critical Defence Against Evolving Resistance
This crucial vaccination programme, also slated to begin in England this August, emerges amidst grave warnings that some gonorrhoea strains are developing resistance to conventional treatments. The initial focus will be on gbMSM with a history of multiple sexual partners or an STI, alongside other at-risk individuals, including sex workers.

The vaccine itself is an existing jab, 4CMenB, currently employed against meningococcal B. Studies by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) indicate its effectiveness against gonorrhoea ranges between 32.7% and 42%. While it won't eradicate the infection entirely, vaccination promises to significantly diminish the risk of contracting it.

The JCVI further underscores the benefit of vaccination, given that prior gonorrhoea infections offer scant protection against subsequent ones. Moreover, the STI has become progressively harder to treat, exhibiting an alarming evolution of antibiotic resistance. Doctors are increasingly concerned that gonorrhoea could one day become completely untreatable.

In a move that has sent shockwaves through British politics, David Bull has been appointed as the new chairman of
Reform UK. The appointment comes after Zia Yusuf stepped down from the role just days ago, citing concerns about
the party's direction.

Bull, a seasoned politician and TV presenter, brings a wealth of experience to the position. A qualified doctor by
training, he presented Most Haunted Live! between 2002 and 2005, before turning his attention to politics. He was
elected as a Member of the European Parliament in 2019 and served until 2021.

Bull's journey into politics has been one of self-discovery and advocacy for gay rights. Born and raised in
London, he came out as gay at a young age and has since become an outspoken advocate for equality and inclusion.
As chairman of Reform UK, Bull is expected to bring this passion and experience to the role.

When asked about his appointment, Bull stated that he was "honored" to take on the position and vowed to use his
platform to promote gay issues and inclusivity within the party. However, some have expressed concerns about
Bull's business dealings, including the sale of expensive HIV self-test kits in 2021. The incident sparked debate
about his commitment to public health and social justice.

Bull himself has acknowledged that he faced backlash for his past actions, but emphasized that he is committed to
using his platform to make a positive difference. "As chairman, I want to ensure that Reform UK is a welcoming and
inclusive space for all members, regardless of their background or identity," he said.

The appointment has also been met with skepticism by some in the opposition. Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy
Cooper described Bull's appointment as part of a "conveyor belt of Trump sycophants" appointed by Farage, but
others have praised Bull's commitment to gay issues and his potential to bring fresh energy to Reform UK.

As Reform UK looks to the future under new leadership, it remains to be seen how Bull will navigate the
complexities of politics and party politics. One thing is certain: he'll be pushing for a fresh start that
includes greater inclusivity and social justice.