[Trigger warning: The story below addresses the very real violent experiences that our Trans siblings across Africa have been faced with. This story is emotionally intense and at times, graphic. We urge you to put any discomfort you have into action so that no one is subjected to these injustices again.]
Article written by a community author living in Kenya, named N*
Hi, my name is N*. I remember exactly how it was when we left South Sudan due to wars in 2013 and I was 9 years. When we got to Kenya, I finished my primary education here and joined high school.
I have been in a single-sex school since my high school education started. That’s when I realized that my sexual feelings and attachment were so much in my fellow girls rather than boys. I identify as a non-binary queer South Sudanese person living in Kenya right now as a refugee.
Unfortunately, 1 year ago in March 2023, one of my closest friends outed me to my family members. I had kept a low profile and none of my family members knew about my sexuality for some years. They got so mad at me after knowing of my gender identity, they punished me and outed me to the rest of the entire South Sudanese community in the camp.
This put my life at risk. I got a lot of hate speech and most of them were suggesting I should be killed. They tied me up with ropes and made me walk all over the camp, setting me as a bad example to other girls. They were calling me all sorts of names and some of them were beating me as a mob. The police luckily appeared and they dispersed a group of people that had gathered.
They walked me to the fields where they were to practice Female Genital Mutilation in public (I had refused this practice some long time ago when I was getting into my teenage years) and then stoned me nearly to death. My sisters and brothers helped me escape too in the dispersed mob and I got to town. In much fear, I had no one to trust at that moment and nowhere I could feel safe.
I immediately got a bus to another area to hide for some time. I had a few fellow South Sudanese friends there. When I reached the town, they had already been told what had happened in the camp and none of them were allowed to host me. I felt more unsafe and I continued my way to Nairobi. I stayed with a Kenyan friend who was once my partner.
Her financial status wasn’t good to allow me to keep staying with her, so, I had to go back to the camp after staying together for 1 year. I sneaked back to the camp where I am living right now, in a certain place where I can’t move freely, work freely, stay safe, or trust everyone around me.
I decided to come back here because at least, I get free shelter and water other than in any other place though my safety isn’t good at all. Right now, I am stuck, I have nowhere I can run to. I am caught up here and I am worried what will happen if anyone notices that I came back to the camp.
My life is at risk and I have faced enough. In this Pride month as we are reflecting, empowering and uniting, I call on the whole Transgender community to reflect on what it means for us to get displaced and survive through such dehumanizing practices like FGM.
Let’s empower each other because it’s not sweet everywhere. Then lastly, all we need to do is to stand in solidarity and unity from all parts of the world to resist such persecutions. We are all potential victims but we are all potentially empowered to condemn and bring a stop to this.
HAPPY PRIDE 2024!
If you’d like to join us in building power for community members likeN* who are living in Africa, please visit our TEP Africa group page.
On August 9, 2023, the Ugandan Constitutional Court upheld the Anti-Homosexuality Act, which criminalizes same-sex relationships and imposes harsh penalties, including life imprisonment. This decision has sparked widespread concern and fear among the LGBTQ+ community in Uganda, leading many to flee the country in search of safety.
The Act has perpetuated discrimination, violence, and persecution against LGBTQ+ individuals, forcing many to live in hiding or seek asylum in neighboring countries such as Zambia, Kenya, and Sudan. However, even in these countries, LGBTQ+ individuals face challenges and discrimination, making their situation precarious.
The law has led to:
* Arbitrary arrests and detentions
* Violence and torture
* Forced evictions and homelessness
* Limited access to healthcare and education
* Social exclusion and stigma
Many LGBTQ+ individuals have reported being forced to flee their homes, leaving behind their families, livelihoods, and belongings. They often face exploitation and abuse during their journey, and in their host countries, they may encounter:
* Discrimination and violence
* Limited access to healthcare and legal protection
* Difficulty accessing education and employment
* Trauma and mental health issues
The situation is dire, and the international community has condemned the law, calling for its repeal and protection for LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda and the region. Human rights organizations and advocacy groups continue to push for change, but until then, the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda and beyond remain in danger.
It is essential to raise awareness about this issue and support efforts to repeal the Anti-Homosexuality Act, ensuring the safety and protection of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Unfortunately, this is leading to a harsh anti homosexuality act in the East African region that has badly empowered all the other states in the region to come up with the same similar laws criminalizing their citizens for LOVE.
These are the causes of the LGBTQIA refugee crisis in Africa which is escalating day by day.
Click here to join us in the fight for equality, globally by making a donation or even hosting your own fundraiser for our LGBTQIA siblings in Africa
We hope that globally, everyone in the world will take notice of this wave, to understand that it’s here to target us as a queer community at large and then coming up with united voices, solidarity to fight and continue resisting these laws, challenging them and adding a voice to a campaign in Africa thats liberating queer refugees from here.
Clothing is what makes the (Hu)man; or so they say, which is why as our founder, I started TEP with a clothing swap.
I realized that clothing was one immediate form of gender expression that we have access to. Clothing amplifies outwardly the energy within our bodies. It introduces us to the world, without us having to say a word and is one of the many ways that we as humans have to connect to the world around us. Allowing us all to explore who we are, what we’re feeling, what we want to project to the rest of the world and affords comfort, especially against the elements during extreme weather.
Despite the fact that clothing is one of the most abundant resources on our planet, especially in the United States, where we are high subscribers to fast fashion, it can be incredibly difficult to access gender-affirming clothing that is affordable for our community.
From the discomfort of trying to shop in what may be an unaffirming and potentially unsafe space, to not having the cash needed to get the affirming clothing we want/need, clothing is one resource that the 2TIGE community is always in need of.
For the last few years we’ve been shipping out clothing packages to folks in need, but that’s just not sustainable!
So, now we’re asking our community members to join us in hosting clothing swaps across the country to make sure more folks get access to the clothing resources that they need.
Not only that, but clothing swaps can be a lot of fun; especially when organized with friends! We’ve had folks hold one off-events and also held them as regular functions in Knoxville, TN until COVID hit.
You can organize clothing swaps with friends or open them up to the larger community. They’re a great and affordable way for everyone in the community (including our accomplices) to come together for fun and to freshen up their wardrobes with fresh finds.
ICYMI: Clothing swaps can help protect the earth by ensuring that unwanted clothing ends up in the hands of communities who need them rather than adding to overfilled landfills!
Did you know: “It takes almost 8000 litres of water – what one person drinks in seven years – to make one pair of jeans. And when those jeans are discarded, they join the 21 billion tons of textiles that end up in landfills each year. Of 100 billion items produced yearly, 14 for each human on the planet, three in five will be discarded within the year.”(UN, 2019) & (NRDC.org, 2019)
In a world that too often echoes with division, Trans Empowerment Project (TEP) hopes to stand as a beacon of unity and love, especially through our transformative “Sisterhood Not Cisterhood” program. As we encourage folks to join our newest campaign, “Louder With Love,” it’s a poignant time to reflect on what it means to truly celebrate womanhood in all its diversity.
As I personally reflect on “Louder With Love” and the growth of the Sisterhood Not Cisterhood program, I am reminded of the many women I’ve interacted with at conferences and workshops – women who are learning how to be better, more intersectional allies; women who are finding themselves, claiming their power, and learning how to lead (and when to follow other leaders); women who are getting out of their comfort zones to try and make the world a better place, even with everything else they carry.
These are trans women, cis women, BIPOC women, disabled women, white women – all coming together to learn from one another and to build community together. I am in awe of these women, and it has been a pleasure to teach and learn alongside them. Never have I seen “sisterhood” exemplified more than in these spaces, where egos are put aside, and minds are open to learning and, more importantly, hearing.
The Power of Inclusive Sisterhood
At the heart of our Sisterhood Not Cisterhood program is a simple yet profound belief: every woman deserves recognition, celebration, and empowerment. Here’s why inclusive sisterhood is not just important but essential:
Unity in Diversity: Our strength lies not in our sameness but in our diversity. By embracing every woman’s unique experiences and perspectives, we build a more resilient and compassionate community.
Breaking Barriers: Historically marginalized groups, including 2TIGE ( 2 Spirit, Trans, Intersex, and Gender Expansive), disabled, and BIPOC communities, have faced systemic barriers to empowerment and recognition. Inclusive sisterhood seeks to dismantle these barriers, ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to thrive.
A Larger Community: When we stand together, the community of women isn’t just big; it’s boundless. United, there’s no limit to the change we can enact and the futures we can build.
This actually reminds me of a t-shirt my husband bought for me that says, “Our world needs women who are dangerously awake, fully alive, and unified in heart and purpose.” That rings so true for me, especially right now. Our world feels like it’s on fire, but if we wake up and work together instead of letting ourselves be divided, we can build a world where everyone thrives – that is the purpose we need to be unified under, and we need to be loud about it.
(BTW, you can get one of those t-shirts for yourself from Mahogany Mommies…no affiliation with us, they just make some really cool stuff)
Louder With Love: Why It Matters
The “Louder With Love” campaign is more than a slogan; it’s a call to action. In an age where dividing lines are drawn too quickly and hate can spread with a click, choosing love is a revolutionary act. Here’s how we can all get “Louder With Love”:
Drown Out Hate: Every act of love, big or small, has the power to silence messages of hate. Whether it’s through words of support, acts of kindness, or standing up for one another, love is our most potent weapon. Perform a random act of kindness today – and remember to check on your 2TIGE and BIPOC friends; this world is heavy right now.
Disrupt the Doom Scroll: In the relentless cycle of negative news and social media toxicity, it’s easy to feel despair. But by amplifying positive stories, achievements, and moments of unity, we can change the narrative together. Make a positive post of your own using our #LouderWithLove hashtag and challenge 3 friends to do the same, or use our customizable social media toolkit for sample posts.
Build a Future on Love: Our dreams for the future are built on the foundation we lay today. By fostering an environment of love and support, we make it possible for every woman to achieve her full potential.
Together, We Are Unstoppable
The message of “Sisterhood Not Cisterhood” and the “Louder With Love” campaign is clear: our love for each other must be louder, stronger, and more enduring than any forces that seek to divide us. It’s a reminder that together, we’re not just a community; we’re a force for change.
As members of the TEP family, whether you’ve been around for a while or you’re just getting here, you’re part of this beautiful, ongoing movement of empowerment and unity. Let’s stand together, louder with love, and show the world the incredible power of inclusivity and unwavering solidarity.
Looking ahead to a year that is sure to be fraught with tension and repeated attempts at dividing our country, I’m filled with hope and determination because I’ve seen firsthand how collective efforts can weave a tapestry of support and belonging. My pledge this year is simple, but resolute: I will be louder with love, in words and in action – and I hope you’ll join me.
Together, there’s no doubt in my mind that we can build a future where every person, in all their unique glory, is celebrated and empowered to thrive.
In a world that never seems to pause, the act of resting can sometimes feel like a luxury we’re not afforded. Yet, for members of the 2 Spirit, Trans, Intersex, and Gender Expansive (2TIGE) community, taking time to rest is not an indulgence—it’s a crucial aspect of self-care that fosters empowerment, resilience, and healing. Unfortunately, rest has also been historically weaponized against marginalized groups, like ours, and used as a means to diminish and control.
Understanding this context is vital in reclaiming our right to rest and prioritize our well-being.
The Weaponization of Rest
For too long, resting has been entangled with narratives that paint it as a sign of laziness or lack of ambition, especially within marginalized communities. This harmful rhetoric serves as a tactic to perpetuate cycles of exhaustion and disempowerment, making it more challenging for individuals to advocate for themselves and their community. The cruel irony is that those who most need rest to heal and fight against systemic barriers are often the ones denied it.
The Consequences of Rest Deprivation
Physical and Mental Health: Chronic lack of rest can lead to serious health issues, including cardiovascular disease, anxiety, depression, and significantly weakened immune systems. For the 2TIGE community, this adds another layer of stress to lives already navigating complex terrains of discrimination and transition-related health care.
Emotional Well-Being: Without rest, our emotional reserves dry up, making it harder to cope with stress, navigate even the most simple of daily challenges, and maintain healthy relationships. Emotional exhaustion leaves us feeling alienated and burnt out, diminishing our capacity to engage with others, even those in our support networks.
Community Impact: On a larger scale, when members of our community are too tired to participate fully in life, our collective vibrancy and activism suffer.
Rest is not just an individual necessity but a communal one, vital for sustaining the movements that propel us forward.
Rest as an Act of Resistance
In the face of narratives that seek to keep us perpetually on the back foot, prioritizing rest emerges as a powerful act of resistance. Here are a few suggestions to incorporate rest into your self-care regimen:
Listen to Your Body:
Learn to recognize the early signs of fatigue and give yourself permission to slow down. Your body’s needs are legitimate, and honoring them is the first step toward healing.
Set Boundaries:
It’s OK to say no to additional responsibilities if you’re feeling stretched thin. Setting and maintaining boundaries is crucial in safeguarding your time for rest.
Create Restful Routines:
Identify activities that genuinely relax and rejuvenate you. This could be as simple as reading, writing, listening to music, taking a walk, or practicing mindfulness. Incorporating these into your daily routine can help ensure that rest becomes a non-negotiable part of your day.
Seek Community Support:
Sometimes, the weight of the world can make resting feel impossible. In these times, leaning on your community can offer relief and strength. Remember, you’re not in this alone. At TEP we have a community Discord for clients and volunteers to better connect with one another.
Moving Forward:
The right to rest is inherent and non-negotiable, forming the bedrock upon which we build our strength, creativity, and resilience. As a community and as individuals, we must reclaim and protect this right, recognizing rest as essential to our empowerment journey.
We must commit to treating rest not as a luxury but as a critical element of our self-care and activism. By doing so, we not only nurture ourselves but also strengthen our collective capacity to thrive and affect change. The path may be long, but together, with rest as our ally, we continue to move forward towards a future where empowerment and healing are accessible to all.
At Trans Empowerment Project, we understand the pressures and challenges our community faces, and we stand firm in our commitment to support and uplift each other. We’re here to help you find the balance and the space to rest, grow, and empower yourself and those around you. Which is also why TEP has never been in the habit of sending our already exhausted community to the front lines to be targeted by the Chad and Karen at Chick-fil-h8. Not only is it not sustainable but also we don’t owe others the time and energy it takes to convince a closed mind that we deserve to exist.
We all deserve the freedom of owning our own bodies. The freedom to dream and the freedom to exist in a world not controlled by white supremacy and colonialist values but one where we all get to thrive.
For Disabled 2Spirit, Trans, Intersex, and Gender Expansive community members who are also Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, these acts of aggression are further compounded by the biases of others and systemic oppressions, which we already know were designed to keep people of color disempowered. Many of us have spent our lives fighting to survive, while being denied access to the tools and resources we need to live a basic life, let alone our best lives.
While we will always encourage our community to participate in their own liberation, especially through learning about our rights and by participating in civic engagements like casting our votes, we also strongly urge you to take care of yourselves, through practicing proper self-care habits, especially through rest.
Prioritize healing, improve your mental health, and take the time needed to rest and recharge.
Your turn! Click the button below to share your fave methods of selfcare with us!
"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." - Martin Luther King Jr.
Today, a critical moment unfolds before the Supreme Court—a moment that will invariably leave deep imprints on the fabric of our collective conscience and on the lives of countless individuals across our nation. The city of Grants Pass, Oregon, has brought forth a case to the highest court with the potential to criminalize homelessness. As an organization built on the pillars of empowerment and support for the most vulnerable, we at TEP feel compelled to raise our voices against this alarming moment.
Imagine, if you may, the stress and strain of living without the safety of shelter, compounded by the looming threat of being criminalized just for existing, reacting or responding to circumstances—circumstances often beyond your control.
It is a grave injustice when the laws of the land do not protect, but rather persecute, those in the throes of misfortune and a somber reflection of our society when individuals are penalized for seeking the most basic human need for shelter.
Over the last several years, we’ve watched as the rates of the unhoused surge along with the cost of living and the rise in mortgage rates.
Compounding this issue are motions like the Safer Kentucky act, a piece of proposed legislation that has been deemed cruel, and would potentially authorize deadly force against those without homes—a thought that shudders the heart and shakes the spirit, especially for those of us who have had the misfortunate experience of being unhoused in a capitalist society. If unchecked, these movements could lead to a reality where the absence of a home is met not only with indifference but with hostility—a stark contradiction to any society that honestly deems itself as morally just and/or compassionate.
While doing the work that I do at TEP, I have witnessed firsthand how housing insecurities are ravaging our community, as—over 40% of our clients have shared their tribulations of not having any source of income whatsoever and 1 in 5 have indicated they had no place to call home when reaching out to us. Their stories are not mere statistics; they are harrowing narratives of resilience amidst adversity, of seeking dignity while staring down the face of societal neglect.
As members of a community that cherishes inclusion and uplifts the most marginalized, we must now band together more than ever. To align on our values of solving inequities by centering Disabled 2TIGE-BIPOC in our solutions; To advocate for policies that understand, prevent, and compassionately respond to homelessness rather than punish it.
We believe that no individual should be deemed a criminal for simply trying to survive without shelter.
Please join us by signing the petition below urging the Supreme Court to affirm the right to adequate shelter and to protect the human rights of all individuals, housed or otherwise. Let’s unite to alter the trajectory of this conversation—from one that criminalizes to one that humanizes, from punitive action to compassionate policy.
Your voice has power. Your signature is a beacon of hope. Your action is a step towards a future where the inherent dignity of every soul is recognized and upheld. Speak out, show up, and let your humanity echo through the halls of justice.
Together, we can shift the course of history—towards empathy, towards compassion, towards dignity for all.
While my Trans identity is only a part of who I am and does not define me, my womanhood does. So, I adamantly refuse to be excluded from conversations about women’s issues; all women, regardless of their background or identity, deserve a seat at the table
Jacquii Cooke
Client Success Manager,Trans Empowerment Project
Jacquii Cooke
Client Success Manager
March marks a time of celebration and reflection as we commemorate Women’s History Month. It’s a time to acknowledge and honor the remarkable contributions of women, past and present, who have shaped our world in countless ways. As we pay tribute to these achievements this year, it’s crucial to recognize and uplift ALL women, especially our Trans-femme siblings. We are making history TODAY!
I’m Jacquii Cooke–Client Success Manager for Trans Empowerment Project (TEP). As a 48-year-old Trans woman myself–having proclaimed my womanhood at the age of seventeen–I have endured the harsh realities of blatant misogyny, workplace discrimination, sexual harassment, and the many struggles women face on a daily basis.
The words of black Trans icon Dr. Lourdes Ashley Hunter resonate with my spirit as she says, “I don’t want to be visible because I am trans. I want to be seen, affirmed and celebrated as a whole damn person… [I want to] thrive in a world that celebrates all of who we are… Humans.” While my Trans identity is only a part of who I am and does not define me, my womanhood does. So, I adamantly refuse to be excluded from conversations about women’s issues; all women, regardless of their background or identity, deserve a seat at the table.
Being an advocate for the 2TIGE (Two-Spirit, Transgender, Intersex, and Gender-Expansive) community is a title I also proudly claim. I have had the privilege of getting to know and assisting hundreds of clients from 44 states in the US who are working hard to overcome disproportionate amounts of personal trauma, criticism, bias, and unjust legislation. In 2023, TEP took a significant step forward by providing ~$25,000 in direct aid through our inTRANSitions Program.
The inTRANSitions initiative aims to empower all our 2TIGE clients in need, 40% of whom are Trans women and Trans-femme individuals from diverse backgrounds. By providing programs like inTRANSitions, TEP is not just offering food & toiletries deliveries, access to HRT, gender-affirming items, and much more. We’re creating pathways for empowerment and inclusivity!
This Women’s History Month, let’s celebrate women’s achievements, resilience, strength, and courage by committing to ongoing action and support. Let’s continue this momentum and strive for greater joy, celebrating each other’s triumphs as we thrive together in sisterhood, not CISterhood.
As we look to the future, let’s recognize that women are making history now. Because we are! In fact, over 50% of TEP’s amazing staff is managed by a talented, passionate, diverse group of women dedicated to advocating for our community. Please excuse my language when I say that we are a group of badasses who are kicking some major ass fighting for our community’s right to exist joyfully! We’re changing the narrative on the disinformation floating about, building bridges of inclusion among all women, and helping our community accomplices become captains of organizing in their local communities. My colleagues and I are doing impressive work and are doing our part in defining history by helping to create a better tomorrow!
And we can continue making history when we work together to create a more equitable and empowered society. Whether through financial donations, volunteer work, community organizing, or simply spreading awareness, every action counts. So let’s join hands in solidarity, writing new chapters in history daily–chapters where everyone’s voice is heard, valued, and celebrated.
Your contribution to TEP’s inTRANSitions program directly supports this mission, enabling us to create lasting change and opportunities for 2TIGE folks in need. To make your charitable contribution directly to TEP’s inTRANSitions program and be a part of this transformative revolution, visit our donation page. Today, a contribution. Tomorrow, you will have made all the difference! You can also create your own fundraiser on Tiltify and share it with your trans-affirming family, friends & colleagues! Complete directions on how to do so can be found online at https://tiltify.com/trans-empowerment-project. Let’s continue to write history together, one act of empowerment at a time.
By: Mo Viviane (they/them), Program Manager for Trans Employment Project
As we come together to celebrate Women’s History Month, we must recognize and uplift the contributions and badassery of Trans Women and Femmes in all employment sectors! Let’s explore the importance of bridging the wage gap, fostering equity, and taking action to create a more equitable reality for us all. The Wage Gap: A Barrier Yet to be Overcome The wage gap experienced by Trans Women and Femmes presents a significant barrier to financial and professional success. Studies have shown that Trans Women and Femmes have consistently earned less than their cisgender counterparts, and the disparities are even GREATER for BIPOC Trans Women and Femmes.
According to the National Transgender Discrimination Survey, Trans Women and Femmes earn an average annual income of $10,000 less than cisgender women. The HRC notates more profound pay inequities; whereas cisgender white men earn $1.00, an average of all women earn $0.84, and Trans Women earn $0.61.
The Power of Visibility & Inclusion Increasing visibility and fostering an inclusive environment are critical steps in combatting the wage gap and building a better future. By acknowledging and uplifting the experiences and achievements of Trans Women and Femmes, we challenge stereotypes and biases while celebrating all of the contributions they bring.
Visibility also plays a crucial role in validating the experiences of Trans folks in the employment sector. Representation in the workplace benefits the individual and has a positive impact on society, breaking down barriers and inspiring others to pursue their passions and goals. Or, as wonderfully as Raquel Willis stated at the Women’s March on Washington in 2017, “As we commit to each other to build this movement of resistance and liberation, NO ONE can be an afterthought. We have a chance to be stronger and better than we ever have before – and that starts with having hard conversations and being held accountable.”
Taking Action Towards an Equitable Future While awareness is essential, it is through action that we actively mitigate the inequities faced by Trans Women and femmes. Let’s explore some steps we can take! 1. Implement Equitable Pay Policies: Establishing equitable pay structures that ensure Trans Women and Femmes receive appropriate compensation for their work is vital in bridging the wage gap. 2. Strengthen Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Initiatives: By prioritizing DEIB in all aspects of your organizations, you can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for ALL employees. It is important to ensure that BIPOC Trans Women and Femmes are at the forefront of conversations and policy changes. 3. Providing Support and Resources: Offering resources, mentorship programs, and career advancement opportunities designed to address the unique challenges faced by Trans Women and Femmes is a crucial part of action in the workplace!
Joining Trans Employment Project: By joining Trans Employment Project as a partner or a member, you are on your way to bridging the wage gap of the Trans Women in our community. As a member, you’ll have access to tips, tricks, and skills training to up your skillset. As a partner, you can sign up to stay plugged into our work or even sponsor our work so that we can continue to move Trans Women out of crisis and into empowerment. Addressing Anti-Trans and Anti-DEI Bills Unfortunately, the fight for inclusivity and equity faces ongoing challenges in the form of anti-trans and anti-DEI bills. These bills seek to roll back the progress made in creating a safe and affirming place for Trans people. It’s essential to recognize and address these issues head-on and actively advocate for Trans rights.
By partnering with local advocacy organizations, engaging in educational initiatives, and voicing concerns to policymakers, we can work towards dismantling the barriers these discriminatory bills create that affect every aspect of our community. As we dedicate Women’s History Month to honoring the achievements of women throughout history, it is time to ACT and INCLUDE Trans Women and Femmes. Together, we can bridge the wage gap, foster inclusion, and create more equitable and empowered workplaces for everyone!
This LGBTQIA2S+ History Month, I want to highlight an individual who has made an impact in my community, as well as in my life. J Mase III is a poet, educator, and advocate. He has left an indelible mark on the Trans and Queer community, challenging norms and amplifying Black and Brown folks.
Images courtesy of J Mase III
J Mase III captures various forms of artistic expression, from poetry to photography, capturing the essence of his lived experiences and the stories of those who often go unheard. In his poetry, he delves into themes of identity, gender, race, and Queerness. His words create a powerful and introspective journey, inviting readers and listeners to explore their own perspectives and challenge societal constructs. J Mase III has used his platforms to educate about the experiences and struggles of the Trans community, specifically Black and Brown Trans folks. Through workshops, performances, and public speaking engagements, he has fostered conversations that promote understanding, empathy, and acceptance. He is the author of White Folks Be Trippin’: An Ethnography Through Poetry & Prose. These pieces are inspired by Langston Hughes’s The Ways of White Folks and guide us into accepting what we already know: White Folks Be Trippin’.
As the Co-Director of The Black Trans Prayer Book, an interfaith, multidimensional, artistic, and theological work that collects stories, poems, prayers, meditation, spells, and incantations of Black Trans & Non-binary folks, he has highlighted the intersections of race, gender, and faith. In this, a space of healing and connection within the community is prominent. In 2019, when 25 anti-Trans bills had been introduced in the United States, he created the campaign #TransphobiaIsASin. That number has since increased to 593 bills. This campaign is ongoing, especially since anti-Trans rhetoric and its connection to religious violence have not stopped
His book And Then I Got Fired: A Transqueer’s Reflections on Grief, Unemployment & Inappropriate Jokes About Death has helped me navigate being a Black Non-binary Queer person who left a pretty messed up workspace, while I was also navigating my grief and the complexities of life as a Transqueer person. J Mase III provides a unique perspective on resilience and growth.
Back when I was a student at Northern Kentucky University, I had the opportunity to meet with J Mase III. His presence left a profound impact as he shared an immersive experience through poetry and thought leadership. He also led a writing workshop, where he fostered an environment of learning, empathy, and understanding. J Mase III is my Black Trans icon, deserving of so much recognition and admiration. He has inspired me to embrace myself, especially in a world that continues to erase folks like me.
For more information on J Mase III and to purchase his books, visit his website at https://jmaseiii.com
Happy Black Poetry Day! This day means so much to me. As a teenager growing up in a small town in Kentucky, I was given the opportunity to attend the Kentucky Governor’s School for the Arts back in 2011. I was accepted into the Creative Writing program, where most of my focus was on creating prose and poetry. Many of my influences have been Black poets such as Bianca Lynne Spriggs, Alice Walker, and Frank X Walker. This experience changed how I sought out writing and dug deeper into myself as a poet. I studied under many outstanding Black poets, including Cave Canem fellows Kelly Norman Ellis and Mitchell L.H. Douglas. In my undergraduate studies at Northern Kentucky University, I was part of a small slam poetry group called S.W.E.R.V.E. (Spoken Weapons Engaged to Revolutionize Viewers Everywhere). I led many workshops and community gatherings for Black writers and allies at the university. Still, poetry has been something I use as a tool related to my spiritual practice in Hoodoo and many other avenues in my life. Poetry has always been about liberation, uplifting community, and making just for the sake of making. One of my favorite anthologies is Circe’s Lament: Anthology of Wild Women Poetry, edited by Bianca Lynne Spriggs and Katerina Stoykova-Klemer. There are many other influences on my writing, such as Crystal Wilkinson, Poet Laureate of Kentucky (2021-22) and the award-winning author of Perfect Black. Many of her works have inspired me to lean into my Blackness and be truthful to myself–as a writer and to my community.
Most of my poems have turned into songs (that I hoard in my recordings app on my phone). Sharing this piece called “Gone” is super personal to me. It is a recording of my voice one year before starting testosterone and at two years on testosterone. This piece represents the memories that I hold with me and to remember that being Black and Non-Binary is not about erasing who I am, but recognizing every facet of my life and wholly leaning into myself in that. I hope you enjoy it!
![[Call to Action] Show Solidarity with the Unhoused](https://transempowerment.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/homeless-6887060_1280-1080x675.jpg)
that collects stories, poems, prayers, meditation, spells, and incantations of Black Trans & Non-binary folks, he has highlighted the intersections of race, gender, and faith. In this, a space of healing and connection within the community is prominent. In 2019, when 25 anti-Trans bills had been introduced in the United States, he created the campaign #TransphobiaIsASin. 
Back when I was a student at Northern Kentucky University, I had the opportunity to meet with J Mase III. His presence left a profound impact as he shared an immersive experience through poetry and thought leadership. He also led a writing workshop, where he fostered an environment of learning, empathy, and understanding. J Mase III is my Black Trans icon, deserving of so much recognition and admiration. He has inspired me to embrace myself, especially in a world that continues to erase folks like me.