Trump Plays 'YMCA' at Saudi Conference, Sparking LGBTQ+ Rights Debate

President Donald Trump's appearance at the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum on May 13, 2025, took an unexpected turn when he played the Village People's "YMCA." This seemingly innocuous act carries significant weight given Saudi Arabia's strict laws against homosexuality. The song, often associated with LGBTQ+ culture, created an immediate contrast. A PinkNews video capturing the event shows Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reacting to the song. The choice of music has drawn criticism, highlighting the clash between American and Saudi cultural norms. The incident also brings back memories of Trump's previous use of "YMCA" during his campaign, and the subsequent legal dispute with the song's lyricist, Victor Willis, who criticized the song's association with LGBTQ+ culture. The event underscores the complex political and social landscape of the Middle East and the ongoing global conversation around LGBTQ+ rights. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in countries with repressive laws, while simultaneously highlighting the cultural significance of a seemingly simple song. The juxtaposition of Trump's actions and the Saudi Arabian context provides a poignant commentary on the complexities of international relations and cultural sensitivities.