Last Tuesday, the #BlackLivesMatter movement made history in the largest nationally organized display of solidarity with and support of the black transgender community. Numerous BLM chapters, cities and universities came together to spread awareness for the increasing number of trans-related deaths that have occurred this year. In conjunction with actions, protests, vigils and die-ins, supporters and black trans folk took to social media to make sure the messages of the day were spread far and wide.
Beyond calling for an increased awareness around the U.S., activists and supporters hope that the general public will continue to carry the conversation beyond the few days each year dedicated to honoring the issues that plague the community. Here are some illuminating posts that prove why #TransLiberationTuesday needs to happen more often.
1. The deaths of black trans women continue to be overlooked in mainstream media.
2. Violence isn't just a physical occurrence. Lack of access to necessary services like healthcare, legal services and more reflect this.
3. Many trans women are killed in domestic violence situations at the hands of cis men.
4. Laverne Cox and other trans folk shouldn't be the only ones uplifting this narrative.
A video posted by Cherno Biko (@chernobiko) on
5. We have to remember trans pioneers who paved the way for the bit of progress we do have nowadays.
7. Chants aren't just songs; they're demands and statements of resilence and power.
8. Allies need to be just as out about their support as many trans folk are out about their identities.
9. We must acknowledge that it is possible for black trans women to have healthy relationships, and that those relationships come in many different forms.
10. Parsing out the specific struggles of black trans folk from the larger trans community is key. Intersectionality matters.
11. This fight isn't new; trans folks have been fighting against discrimination for years.
12. Trans advocacy organizations and trans-led organizations are always in need of financial support.
For more information about the events and actions held on #TransLiberationTuesday, check out these brilliant articles below!
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From left: Jena Malone, Jodie Foster, Jay-Z, and Kendall and Kylie Jenner.Featureflash photo Agency/Shutterstock; Tinseltown/Shutterstock; Tinseltown/Shutterstock; Taylor Hill/FilmMagic
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