Being one of the first trans people in the US to be public about her transition in 1952, Christine Jorgensen made massive waves in her time in aiding the visibility of what it meant to be transgender. While of course there was invasive and negative press denying her identity, much media coverage of her transition was surprisingly neutral, with outlets being mostly curious without any intention of demonising her, opening up new discussions surrounding gender. Because of how unheard of it was to be transgender to the American public in the 1950s, media interest and curiosity made her into a celebrity overnight. Jorgensen went on to have a career in nightlife entertainment, and in her later years became outspoken about her experiences and struggles, touring venues and educating the public about the transgender experience. She inspired many people back then, and continues to inspire people today with her timeless courage that especially stood out in an era where the idea of being transgender was virtually unknown. Therefore she truly deserves a spotlight this Women's History Month in The Courier and everywhere.
Few have been as actively influential to the advancement of gay and trans rights as Marsha P. Johnson. A hardcore gay rights activist and loud-and-proud full-time drag queen, Johnson's most well-known piece of activism occurred on June 28th 1969 with her participation at the forefront of the Stonewall Riots. Her activism then arguably kickstarted a wave of gay rights campaigning that carries on to this day. She would continue to be highly active in fighting for LGBTQ+ rights, being part of groups such as the Gay Liberation Front (GLF) along with the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR House) which housed homeless LGBTQ+ youth. She also personally aided in caring and advocating for those sick with AIDS during the pandemic of the 1980s and early 1990s. Johnson attended her last pride parade in 1992, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy of fighting for what she believed in until the very end through all the struggles and hardships she had to face, all with a smile on her face. Johnson's unwavering spirit and contributions to trans rights absolutely earns her a spotlight this Women's History Month in The Courier.
What trans women all over the world have to face automatically makes every single one inspirational in their own right. These figures may be long gone, but their voices will never fade away. You too, have the power to inspire just like them, live your truth just like them - even in a world that only wishes to erase you entirely. Everybody deserves to live their truth, so that they may never fade away. Happy Women's History Month.