In the current fight for justice, the presence of BLACK transgender individuals in political offices is crucial. As systemic racism collides with a surge in anti-trans legislation, our political representation becomes a defense of our existence. While American History would have you believe that trans individuals have never been a part of the political landscape, the truth is we have always been here.

This BHM, we choose to uplift the contributions of BLACK trans people who have made an indelible impact in the political arena. Liberation does not come without education; today, school is in session. The fight for transgender rights is tied to BLACK liberation. Electing BLACK trans individuals challenges oppressive systems.

We need a  political landscape where our voices are actively involved in creating solutions. We demand legislation that dismantles discrimination in healthcare, housing, employment, and criminal justice. Envision legislation crafted with a deep understanding of our struggles, leading to policies that uplift our communities. This vision is a tangible reality through political activism. In this election year it is critical to be involved. Learn your local officials and support those who seek to make the political landscape actually represent the people it is supposed to serve! Register to vote and make a change!

Below are a few BLACK trans individuals who have impacted change in the political arena. From grassroots organizers to lawyers and state representatives, each and every one has made it their mission to advance the rights of trans people through political action. We see you, we honor you and we give recognition where it is due.

Althea Garrison

Althea Garrison is an American politician known for making history as the first transgender person elected to a state legislature in the United States. In 1992, she won a seat in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Garrison has been a trailblazer for transgender representation in politics, demonstrating resilience and breaking barriers.

Andrea Jenkins

Andrea Jenkins is an American policy aide, politician, and poet. She made history as the first openly trans African American woman elected to public office in the United States, serving as a member of the Minneapolis City Council. Jenkins has been a tireless advocate for racial and social justice, utilizing her platform to address systemic issues and champion the arts within her community.

Mariah Moore

Mariah Moore is a transgender activist and community organizer with a focus on advocating for transgender rights and racial justice. Although she hasn’t held formal political office, Moore’s influence extends through grassroots efforts, bringing attention to the unique challenges faced by in Black transgender individuals. Her work emphasizes intersectionality and inclusive policy advocacy.

Phillipe Cunningham

Phillipe Cunningham, a Minneapolis City Council member and artist. An openly trans and queer individual, Cunningham is known for his dedication to reshaping Minneapolis through equity-driven policies and community engagement. His commitment to systemic change and inclusivity has made a lasting impact on the city.

Honey Mahogany

Honey Mahogany is a drag performer, politician, and community organizer. She gained political recognition through her 2012 campaign for the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, bringing attention to LGBTQ+ representation in politics. While not securing a seat, Mahogany’s advocacy extends to racial and gender justice, making her a respected figure in both the drag and political communities. Notably, she made history as the first transgender person elected to the San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee. Renowned for her political achievements and as a contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race, Mahogany has been a trailblazer in the intersection of politics and the arts.

Precious Brady-Davis

Precious Brady-Davis – the first trans woman elected as Commissioner of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, is a distinguished figure in Black trans political activism. Her pioneering role breaks barriers for transgender representation, actively contributing to legislative changes at the intersection of transgender rights and environmental justice

Dr. Kortney Ziegler

Kortney Ziegler is an entrepreneur, artist, and advocate for transgender rights. He is the founder of TransH4CK, an organization that empowers transgender and gender non-conforming people through technology. TransH4CK hosts hackathons and other events aimed at creating innovative solutions to address issues faced by transgender communities, such as healthcare access, employment discrimination, and safety concerns. Ziegler also uses his artistic talents to raise awareness about transgender experiences and challenge societal norms through projects like the “Black Trans Prayer Book.”

Raquel Willis

Raquel Willis is a writer, activist, and former executive editor of Out magazine. She has been a prominent voice in advocating for transgender rights, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity in educational spaces. Willis has spoken at numerous universities and educational institutions, engaging students and faculty in conversations about intersectional activism and the importance of centering marginalized voices. As a writer, Willis has contributed to various publications, including The New York Times, Teen Vogue, and Essence, addressing issues such as transgender visibility, healthcare access, and the experiences of black transgender individuals.

CeCe McDonald

CeCe McDonald is a transgender activist who gained national attention after surviving a violent transphobic and racist attack in Minneapolis in 2011. While defending herself from a hate crime, she was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. Her case brought attention to the intersection of racism, transphobia, and the criminal justice system. McDonald’s story sparked widespread activism and calls for justice, leading to her release from prison after serving 19 months. Since then, she has continued to advocate for the rights of transgender individuals, particularly those who are incarcerated.

Tori Cooper

Tori Cooper became the first Black transgender woman to serve on the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS and she hopes her historic appointment helps shine a light on the disparities in health care for the Black trans community. Cooper, the director of community engagement for the transgender justice initiative at the Human Rights Campaign, says she is eager to advocate on behalf of all transgender and nonbinary people, including those who are living with HIV.