Andrea Jenkins made history in 2017 when she became the first African American, openly transgender woman elected to public office in the United States. As a politician, poet, activist, and community historian, Jenkins strives to bring “the notion of love into the public discourse.”
Between 1996 and 1997, three transgender women – known in in court records as A, D and G to protect their identities – were denied gender reassignment surgery by the North West Lancashire Health Authority in England. In 1999, the women brought a legal suit against the Health Authority.
One of the first individuals to receive gender-affirming surgery in the United States, Simmons was also well-known in Charleston society for her marriage to John Paul Simmons. Theirs was reportedly the first documented interracial marriage in South Carolina.
Stormé DeLarverie was a butch lesbian with zero tolerance for discrimination, or as she called it, “ugliness.” During an era that often showed hostility towards LGBTQ people, and queer women in particular, DeLarverie provided safety and acceptance.
American entertainer whose career spanned several decades and encompassed singing, acting, and dancing.
American poet, journalist, and disability rights activist. Known for her powerful writing and advocacy, she explored themes of disability, identity, and social justice.
While Bea Arthur is widely recognized for her iconic roles in “Maude” and “The Golden Girls,” her life and career were rich with fascinating, lesser-known aspects.
American musician and singer-songwriter who passionately campaigns for AIDS education and the rights of those affected.
American lesbian activist and dancer during the Harlem Renaissance who played a vital role in Black and LGBTQ+ organizations, most notably the Lesbian Herstory Archives.
American butch lesbian, transgender activist, author, and communist. Her notable works include “Stone Butch Blues” (1993) and “Transgender Warriors” (1996), which played a significant role in gender studies.