The 21st Show

Remembering Black Trans Lives During Pride Month

Produced by Libby Foster
 
Trans women Carlisha Brown, from left, Nina Barkers, and Vanessa Warri, of Los Angeles, attend the All Black Lives Matter march, organized by black LGBTQ+ leaders, on Sunday, June 14, 2020, in Los Angeles.

Trans women Carlisha Brown, from left, Nina Barkers, and Vanessa Warri, of Los Angeles, attend the All Black Lives Matter march, organized by black LGBTQ+ leaders, on Sunday, June 14, 2020, in Los Angeles. AP/Paula Munoz

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So many trans women have lost their lives due to violence that the American Medical Association has declared it an “epidemic.” In just this past week, Riah Milton in Ohio and Dominique “Rem’Mie” Fells in Pennsylvania were both killed. 

Yet, despite the violence perpetrated against them, black trans people are often the ones on the front lines fighting for change. 51 years ago, trans women of color were the ones clashing with police during the Stonewall Riots in New York City. 

Now, black trans people are again showing up and protesting, this time over the police killing of George Floyd.

But as we celebrate Pride this year, who is putting their bodies on the line for Black trans people?

Guests:

LaSaia Wade, Executive Director, Brave Space Alliance

Stephanie Skora, Associate Executive Director, Brave Space Alliance

Jason Pierceson, Political Science Professor, University of Illinois, Springfield