Hey folks! This is going to be a short post to explain why we moved platforms from Substack to Buttondown.
Substack has recently become very public about the way they curate and fund writers on their platform. They fund writers like Graham Linehan (notably banned from Twitter - which, if you're on Twitter, you know that it takes a LOT to get banned), Jesse Singal, and other anti-trans bigots whose rhetoric prevents trans people from getting effective medical care, be respected as human beings, and be safe in the world. Substack has allegedly addressed these issues in a non-explanation, and I don't really recommend you read that. I would take a look at Jude Ellison Sady Doyle's post that addresses this issue directly from a trans perspective.
Lolita fashion is and has always been political, and as such, if we hope to monetize our blog/email newsletter to raise funds for Royal Vegas Retreat - whether it happens in 2021 or in the future - we have to do so in a way that aligns with our values. Non-normative gender presentation and identity are integral to Lolita fashion and its history. We cannot tolerate Substack's anti-trans hatred, we do not endorse platforms that thrive on outrage, and as such, we have moved to Buttondown.
All of our existing subscribers have automatically been moved over - so you should be seeing this email in your inbox on Friday, April 9 at 4:20 PM PT. Our Substack will stay up so our links stay intact, but all further email updates will come from our Buttondown.
Thank you as always for bearing with us. Please continue to stay safe, stay at home, mask up, and get vaccinated when your turn comes up! We will continue to post inspiring content this month, and we will begin to post updates about Royal Vegas Retreat 2021 starting in May.