Over the past five months, the ACLU of Alabama and Alabama based organization, The Knights & Orchids Society (TKO) partnered together to bring up ten trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming Black Alabamians with a drive to connect with their community. Facilitated by ACLU Project Coordinator, Kamilah Kenyatta, this cohort had the opportunity to grow relationships with Alabama community organizers, learn more about Black queer history and legislature issues regarding the trans community, and build storytelling skills to combat anti-trans rhetoric experienced by the Black trans community in Alabama.
Thinking back on how impactful leading the program over the past 5 months was, Kamilah began with how they are “truly moved by the strength of community. This experience has shown me the possibilities we can achieve collectively. Shifting the narrative around what it means to be Black and trans in Alabama, with unwavering support from influential figures like Miss Major and Raquel Willis, as well as the broader community, is a true testament to the power of community and collective action. I am so grateful for everyone who supported this project and contributed to realizing its vision. Your belief in us is a living testament that together, we can effect meaningful change.
Creating this project was a deeply collaborative effort, made possible by the dedication of the Black Trans Futures fellows. Their courage in proudly being their true, authentic selves not only shaped this project but also deeply impacted my life. To each of you, I extend my heartfelt thanks for your trust, patience, support, brilliance, and the light you bring into this world.”
The Knights & Orchids Society (TKO)
The Knights & Orchids Society (TKO) is a non-profit organization based in Alabama, and is a Gilead COMPASS grantee. The Knights and Orchids Society works for the Black LGBTQ+ community across the South by providing a spectrum of health and wellness services including peer support, reproductive care, food pantry, HIV/STI testing, and treatment resources.
Black Trans Future Celebration
Saturday, February 24, 2024. ACLU of Alabama and TKO hosted their Black Trans Future Celebration at the Magic Cty Acceptance Center. The evening served as a graduation for the ten fellows and acknowledged their work and individual growth as future leaders of the Black trans community in the South. The night consisted of music by Tony Haute and spoken word performances from fellows Peyton Fullilove, Mahogany Toney, and TKO Youth Program Manager, Josh Baker. The audience was also treated to drag performances from Bronzie De’Marco, Sinserit Banks, and Kam Kam.
The night was beautifully graced with the presence of Miss Major Griffin-Gracy, Stonewall veteran and community organizer for transgender rights. As she shared inspiring words with the fellows as they embarked in their next steps in serving the community, Miss Major’s passion for her commitment and intersectional approach to justice was felt intensely through her words and moved the room. She was then presented with a bouquet to show appreciation for her unwavering support of both the program and the path she helped create to lay down the foundation of Black trans activism over the years.
As the night gave a hopeful glimpse into what’s in store for upcoming Black trans activists, GLAAD had the wonderful opportunity to meet the 10 fellows. Check out more about the fellows and a little of what some had to say about their experience from the five-month program.
Ai Star (He/They)
Ai Star has embarked on a bold journey in the South, discovering that strength lies in creating change from within. They’ve found that genuine transformation comes from building a supportive community where you are. Through a transformative fellowship, Ai accessed healthcare, hormones, and a supportive network that’s become like family. Ai’s dream is to create freedom and joy for Black trans individuals envisioning a future where authenticity is safe, and love and acceptance are unconditional. They’re passionate about ensuring access to good food, actively participating in local farming and supporting the community through various initiatives, from clothing swaps to promoting mutual care. Ai Star isn’t just dreaming of a better future; they’re actively making it a reality.
Peyton Fullilove (She/They)
Peyton Fullilove is a passionate young advocate who values solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community, especially for those at the intersection of race and gender. As a Black lesbian, Peyton’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance is deeply influenced by the strength of the Black trans community. They envision a future where Black trans, nonbinary, and gender-nonconforming individuals can live authentically without fear, promoting acceptance, equality, and addressing critical issues within the LGBTQ+ community. Peyton’s commitment to building a more inclusive society is driven by their experiences and challenges faced by their friends. Outside of advocacy, Peyton finds joy in the circus.
On the 5-month program, Peyton said, “reflecting back on this experience I would say has been so enriching. All ten of us have worked really hard and really well together. Storytelling and sharing each others’ experiences is so important and getting to understand where others come from. I justt feel so enriched and I’m so happy I got to experience this.”
DaQuon Allen (Any pronouns)
DaQuon Allen’s journey is a narrative of resilience. Growing DaQuon faced the challenge of reconciling their personal beliefs with the anti-LGBTQ+ teachings around them, all while maintaining an open-minded perspective. Unlearning and rediscovering their identity has been a challenging yet enlightening process. DaQuon now values living authentically, celebrating spaces and communities that embrace individuality. Their dream is a transformed Alabama, affirming and supporting Black TGNC individuals and the queer community. They advocate for queer rights, voting accessibility, and justice reform, countering anti-trans legislation through community education DaQuon’s creative spirit shines in fashion design, blending activism with expressive art, embodying hope and resilience for the future.
Reflecting on what they’ve gained from this experience DaQuon says, “I have a lot of gratitude towards being able to share a space amongst other likeminded Black queer people in the South. And it’s been great that within that we’ve been able to grow our own community. And it’s always just a reminder that when it comes to black queer joy, it’s always going to be resilient, our power is always going to be resilient. We’re always going to be here and we’re not going anywhere. So within that, there deserves celebration.”
Wynter Brisker (She/Her)
Wynter Brisker embodies the struggle and beauty of living authentically as an African American trans woman in a world often resistant to difference. Finding strength in community support, she envisions a future where young people exploring their identities are met with love and acceptance rather than judgment. Wynter is passionate about preserving trans and queer history, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective strength to combat feelings of being overlooked. Her humor and outgoing personality contribute to her resilience and ability to foster connections with others.
Wynter called the last 5 months one of “the best experiences of my life. I got to meet so many great people and be a part of something really big. Community is a big thing for us, especially when we’re all fighting for the same rights and cause. And I know a lot of trans women are not able to receive the resources that we have today. So I’m just so glad to be here and help people like myself grow and become better.”
Bronzie De’Marco (She/Her)
Bronzie DeMarco is not just an entertainer; she’s a trailblazing advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights, dedicating over five decades to the cause. As a Black trans woman, she has marched for equality with unwavering determination. Her message to youth is clear: stand firm, be proud, and demand respect and love. Bronzie envisions a future where belonging is unquestioned, advocating for equal rights and self-determination. Her work is a beacon of hope, symbolizing the fight for a world where everyone is seen and respected. She reminds us of the power of persistence and inspires others to carry the torch of change. In her words, being LGBTQIA+ means being “worthy of love, respect, and unapologetic in the pursuit of happiness.”
Mahagony Toney (She/Her)
Mahogany Toney exemplifies resilience and transparency as a trans woman navigating life’s challenges, using her journey to uplift herself and pave the way for others. Her story is a testament to rising above obstacles and transforming personal struggles into opportunities for community support and advocacy. Mahogany envisions a future where judgment is obsolete, and the trans community experiences progress, equity, and opportunity. She dreams of a world where respect, diversity, and basic constitutional rights are guaranteed for all trans individuals, promoting a society where everyone can live freely and authentically without fear of discrimination. Mahogany’s advocacy focuses on improving access to care, particularly hormone replacement therapy and supportive services, through her role as the chair of the Gender Health Clinic in Birmingham. She also leads a support group for newly diagnosed trans women with HIV, extending mutual aid to Black trans individuals in need. Beyond her advocacy, Mahogany loves to sing.
Mahogany said joining this program aligned with her so much because, “Community is such an asset to me, so these past five months have been such a journey for me. Always when I’m doing advocacy, I love to put my heart and give my all. Any opportunity I’m honored to participate in to make my mark in history. So these past five months have been amazing. Any way I can get my voice out to the world and media and just let people know that I am here I’m doing it. So thank you ACLU for putting together collaborative initiatives like this so I can lend my voice for the greater good of the community and I hope that it will create some applicable change.”
Sinseriti Banks (She/Her)
Sinseriti Banks’ life as a Black trans woman embodies resilience and transformation. Despite facing early incarceration, homelessness, and engaging in sex work, she has navigated extreme adversity, including wrongful imprisonment and harassment, emerging as a fighter and advocate for social change. She envisions a future in the South with advocates for socio-economic change, better housing programs, mutual aid, and accessible gender-affirming care. Sinseriti hopes for an accepting Alabama with cleaner environments and supportive communities. Her passion for addressing the needs of marginalized individuals led her to dream of establishing a Pardon Reentry and Legal Program, clearing criminal records and improving opportunities. She also focuses on enhancing safety for those coming from domestic violence situations. Sinseriti shares her journey through her powerful voice, embodying resilience and hope.
Kerra Crutch (They/Them)
Kerra Crutch’s journey as a Black gender-nonconforming individual is a deeply cherished and personal narrative. They felt a disconnect from traditional concepts of womanhood from a young age, yet they hold onto the unique sense of community and love found in Black womanhood as an integral part of their identity. Kerra sees their Blackness and queerness as inseparable, highlighting the complexity of navigating both gender and racial identities. They envision a future where Black trans, nonbinary, and gender-nonconforming individuals in Alabama can live authentically, free from the need to justify or alter themselves for others’ comfort. Kerra’s journey also involves ongoing self-discovery and understanding of their gender identity. They are passionate about improving Black mental healthcare, drawing from their own experiences with mental illness. Kerra aims to open a counseling practice dedicated to Black queer individuals, emphasizing the importance of accessible and empathetic care. In their free time they enjoy creating niche playlists.
Looking back at the program, Kerra felt that “the past 5 months have been such an amazing experience. I came out of it with so many close partnerships and friendships that I never thought that I’d be able to have. And it’s been such a wonderful experience being able to listen to each others stories and having a safe space for us to share those stories.”
Zariya Williams (They/Them)
Zariya Williams shares a journey of struggle, joy, and pure love as a Black trans non-binary individual. They have found a strong voice in writing, advocating with pride since coming out. Zariya envisions a future of liberation and community solidarity, where the struggles of the Black trans family are lessened, and Black trans disabled individuals take on leadership roles. Their work with organizations like Hometown Action, Political Healers, and Yellow Hammer Fund focuses on healing and reproductive justice workshops. Alongside their advocacy, Zariya is a talented freelance photographer.
Valencia Williams (They/She)
Valencia Washington is an artist whose identity is intricately woven into their work, reflecting the complexities of being a Black queer individual in the art world. Art is not just an escape but a vital form of self-care and spirituality for them. Despite facing challenges in finding acceptance and opportunities in a space often marked by curiosity or caution, Valencia uses art to assert control over their environment, especially coming from the rural South. They envision a future where individuals, especially in the Black and LGBTQ+ communities, can be their authentic selves without fear of vilification. Valencia is passionate about self-care and mental health awareness, emphasizing the mind-body-soul connection and aiming to uplift marginalized individuals. Their innovative spirit seeks to honor the legacy of Black creators who have found beauty in adversity. In their free time, they love to watch bad horror movies.
The partnership between the ACLU & Alabama and The Knights of Orchid has fostered a transformative journey for these ten Black trans activists over the past five months and served as a poignant recognition of their growth and commitment to shaping a more inclusive and supportive future for the Black trans community in Alabama. As we celebrate their achievements, we are reminded of the resilience, strength, and collective power of the Black trans community, and the importance of creating spaces where everyone can live authentically and thrive.