The following words appear on a colorful Afro-futurist background with a picture of CeCe McDonald: “CeCe McDonald. CeCe McDonald uses her experience with incarceration to bring attention to the prison industrial complex, abolition, and the acute challenges trans women of color face both inside and outside of prison. She has spoken at colleges and universities and has given interviews with major news outlets. McDonald’s work sets the stage for a future free from carceral responses to violence that benefit trans and cis people alike. Photo credit: Chartwell Speakers”
The following words appear on a colorful Afro-futurist background with a picture of Patricio Manuel: “Patricio “Pat” Manuel (also known as “Cacahuate”). Patricio Manuel is a professional boxer whose career includes several barrier-breaking achievements, including being the first out transgender boxer, the most decorated amateur boxer to change gender divisions within USA Boxing, and being the first transgender man to beat a cisgender man in the amateur male division. In September 2018, he made history again when he became the first transgender boxer to compete in a professional boxing match in the U.S. and win. During a time when sports are a battleground for trans rights and dignity, Manuel is breaking barriers and paving the way for future Black trans athletes to be recognized, to be respected, and to win.”
The following words appear on a colorful Afro-futurist background with a picture of La Saia Wade: “LaSaia Wade. Wade has founded several organizations that have distributed funds to trans people, organized culturally competent social services for trans people, and led direct actions that have called attention to the violence experienced by trans women in Chicago. Wade’s work is a guide to reaching the future we all desire. It has always been us and will be us who care for, lift up, and support each other.”
The following words appear on a colorful Afro-futurist background with a picture of Kylar Broadus: “Kylar Broadus. Broadus is an attorney who focuses on LGBTQ+ law and transgender rights and is the founder of two organizations that support trans people of color through legal action. Broadus’ legal work does more than change policy; it affirms the rights and dignity of trans people, challenging discrimination and helping shift perceptions of trans people.”
Black trans futures are already here. Right now, Black trans leaders are building the foundation for a more liberated future by challenging transphobia and anti-Blackness through legislation, organizing, art, technology, and community.
#BlackTransFuturesMonth #BlackHistoryMonth #trans