CHICAGO — Trans activists, advocates, and allies, gathered last night at Mayne Stage in Chicago to celebrate the launch of the Trans 100 list, a project created by We Happy Trans and This is HOW to provide an overview of “the breadth and diversity of work being done in, by, and for the transgender community across the United States,” said We Happy Trans in a press release. “Its goal is to shift the coverage of trans issues by focusing on the positive work being accomplished, and providing visibility to those typically underrepresented.”
The event was hosted by Chicago-based musician and activist, KOKUMỌ, with Janet Mock, a trans activist and writer, and Dr. Kortney Ryan Ziegler, a GLAAD Media Award-nominated writer and filmmaker, featured as guest speakers.
“The Trans 100 will bring much-needed visibility to the critical, grassroots work that trans people have been doing in communities across the country for years,” said GLAAD’s Wilson Cruz in a press release. “While media coverage so often misses the mark on accurate portrayals of trans people, the Trans 100 is changing the game by sharing the inspiring and diverse stories behind trans advocacy.”
Here is what those in attendance from our community are saying about the event:
Laverne Cox “it was an historic night. I am overwhelmed by the vision, brilliance and courage of our trans community.”
Charlie S “I’m kinda floored by the whole thing. i’m gonna start calling it The League of Extrordinary Transpeople.”
Jenny B. “Good news: I made the #Trans100! Bad news: most people can’t name 100 trans people. Or, say, 10.”
Shaan (Somebody) “So far I’ve been very impressed by the number of POC I’ve heard named. Too often, such things are very Whitewashed.. #Trans100″
Stephen Ira “Congratulations to all of the amazing organizers, writers, performers, & artists on the #Trans100! So excited to share a community with you.”
Angelica Ross “I’m honored tonight to not be in competition but to celebrate my community’s amazingness.”
*WG will publish the list in full as soon as it becomes available. Photo above is of (left to right) Laverne Cox, Janet Mock, Dr. Kortney Ryan Ziegler, and KOKUMO at the event. Photo by Janet Mock.
