As we celebrate LGBT Pride Month, it’s important to remember that queer people of color are far more likely to experience violence according to the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs’ and when transgender women are under attack, it’s important to uplift and shine light on those who are challenging perceptions, organizing, or changing the game. Today, we honor the beauty of trans women from Laverne to Amiyah who are doing big things.
1. Janet To Laverne
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Transgender women are changing definitions of beauty, from Laverne Cox to Amiyah Scott. These ladies are responsible for the so-called “Transgender Tipping Point”: sexy, talented and forces in media, here are the names and faces you need to know.
Cox is a fan favorite on “Orange Is the New Black” and slays nearly every red carpet she sets foot on. This woman has taken trans visibility to a whole new level, and was commemorated for her contribution to the movement with her very own cover of TIME in 2014.
Janet Mock’s New York Times selling book, “Redefining Realness,” made her a trailblazer and even garnered the respect of Oprah Winfrey, who featured the activist and author on OWN’s Super Soul Sunday. Janet also had her own show on MSNBC.com, a first for a transgender woman of color. She is currently a write and director on the upcoming FX show ‘Pose.’
The RuPaul’s “Drag Race” and RuPaul’s “Drag U” star is more than just a pretty face. The TV personality, model, and burlesque dancer made waves by revealing herself as transgender on an episode of ABC’s “Primetime: What Would You Do.” Carrera is also a committed philanthropist, and actively takes part in raising money for AIDS awareness and research.
5. Amiyah Scott
Amiyah has been a force on social media for years. But after turning down what she considered to be an unflattering role (yep, we said role) on “Real Housewives of Atlanta,” she moved onto some real acting in Lee Daniels’ hit show ‘Star.’ She is the second trans woman of a color to have a major role on network show — second to Laverne Cox.
6. Peppermint
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Peppermint made history as the first trans woman on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race.’ She is one of the most dynamic drag performers in the world and is an advocate for trans visibility and equality.
(Photo by Santiago Felipe/FilmMagic)
7. TS Madison
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The performer-turned-entrepreneur is a force in social media. She is a strong advocate for trans rights, and has even recorded an EP, written a book, and hosts her own web series. You can’t deny the power of TS!
(Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images)
8. Isis King
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Model Isis King became the first trans woman on Tyra Banks’ ‘America’s Next Top Model’ in 2008 and she also became American Apparel’s first openly transgender model.
(Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images for GLSEN)
9. Marsha P. Johnson
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Although Marsha P. Johnson died in 1992 (police said it was a suicide but it is believed she was murdered), her legacy is forever. The trans woman and drag performer is reportedly one of the first people to fight back against police during the Stonewall Riots in 1969. As you celebrate LGBT Pride this year, be sure to honor Marsha’s legacy.
(Photo by Tibrina Hobson/Getty Images)
