Each week, I’ll be posting a list of the most news-worthy and/or inspirational, informative, well-written, thought-provoking, and/or unique posts of the week. While every post and every contributor is valuable to our community, these are the blogs that I feel are must-reads.

June 27- July 3

My Story of Transition- by Jordan

Why I chose this post:

Jordan shares her story of transitioning from male to female. I think it is so important to be aware of transgender issues. Transphobia is a big problem, but if we take the time to listen to stories like this, we can not only learn, but become part of the end to transphobia. Also, I could be wrong, but I believe that Jordan is the first person to share their experience as a transgender person with the Amplify community. Hopefully, she will inspire more people to share their stories!

Iceland’s Prime Minister becomes first national leader with same-sex spouse- by AFY_Viviana

Why I chose this post:

 After becoming the first openly head of state, Iceland's prime minister, Johanna  Sigurdardottir, 68, has now become the first national leader with a same-sex  spouse after marrying her long-time partner, Jonina Leosdottir.

And we thought the big story out of Iceland this year would be volcanic ash…

Faith and Sexuality- by AFY_Ben

Why I chose this post:

Ben writes about his experience growing up gay and Christian, and provides some resources and advice for people struggling with finding a comfortable balance between faith and sexuality.

Breakthrough: the once-a-month male birth control pill- by dandaman6007

Why I chose this post:

Dan writes about an exciting new contraceptive option that is currently being researched- a male birth control pill. This is a great piece, explaining how it works as well as speculating on how its use will be perceived socially. 

Latisse: More Medicalization of Women’s Bodies?- by vanessaaishacoleman

Why I chose this post:

Vanessa returns to blogging after a three month hiatus with an excellent piece not just about medicine “creating a condition,” but how that condition is targeted at women and their subjection to social beauty standards.

Media Makers Salon: Nuala Cabral- by Media_Justice

Why I chose this post:

Here, in part two of her Media Makers series, Bianca features an amazing short film by Nuala Cabral called “Walking Home.” In her interview with the filmmaker, Nuala shares this story about how people have responded to her film:

 The majority of responses I have received have come from women who relate to  this experience. One woman commented ”I felt my blood pressure rise and my  body tense as I watched the film and re-lived so many of those same moments  captured in the film. By the end, I just wanted to scream… I think had I seen this  when I was younger, I would have been able to identify harrassment (sic) and not  hold myself responsible for how others reacted to me.”

Thank you to everyone who posted a blog this week! You are part of what makes this community great!

~ Samantha 
Community Editor