UPDATE: Activists are celebrating the enduring legacy of Miss Major Griffin-Gracy, a pioneer of transgender rights, whose impact is profoundly felt in Alabama, where two Black trans-led organizations are providing critical support to the community. On what would have been Miss Major’s birthday, a memorial event was held at the Mosaic Templars Center in Little Rock, Arkansas, honoring her legacy after her passing on October 18.
Miss Major’s fierce advocacy over more than fifty years laid the groundwork for significant advancements in Black trans liberation. In June 1969, she was a key figure in the historic Stonewall Riot, where she boldly confronted police harassment against LGBTQ+ individuals. Her lifelong commitment to activism included founding the Angels of Care in the 1980s, a group dedicated to supporting those affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Today, organizations like TKO and TAKE are at the forefront of providing essential services in Alabama, where anti-trans laws are escalating. Alabama made headlines as the first state to criminalize gender-affirming care for minors, showcasing the urgent need for these organizations. TKO has become the first Black and trans-led AIDS service organization in Alabama, offering crucial support to those navigating a hostile environment.
During the memorial, Daroneshia Duncan-Boyd, founder of TAKE, emphasized the profound influence of Miss Major on her approach to community building. “We must continue to fight,” Duncan-Boyd said. “At the end of the day, we won’t be erased because we still f**king here.” Her organization now operates as a multimillion-dollar nonprofit, providing job training, legal assistance, and emergency shelters for unhoused trans individuals.
TKO Executive Director TC Caldwell shared their admiration for Miss Major, recalling how she engaged with her community. “She cared deeply about everyone,” Caldwell stated. “She wasn’t just a trans activist; she was a mother and a caregiver.” Caldwell noted that Miss Major frequently visited Alabama to support local initiatives and inspire future leaders.
The urgent need for support is highlighted by alarming statistics. A 2011 analysis showed that Black trans individuals face an unemployment rate of 26 percent, with 41 percent experiencing homelessness. TKO and TAKE are making strides to combat these disparities through comprehensive services and community engagement.
As anti-trans sentiment rises, the work of organizations like TKO and TAKE has never been more critical. The Alabama Public Library Service recently debated a policy aimed at banning books on “transgender ideology,” underscoring the ongoing fight for equality and representation. These organizations continue to provide sanctuary and support for trans individuals, creating safe spaces for healing and joy.
Miss Major’s legacy compels current activists to forge ahead with resilience and purpose. “She taught us to prioritize joy even in our fight for justice,” Caldwell explained. “We want to ensure that while we’re advocating for change, we also celebrate our community’s resilience.”
As trans activists gather to honor Miss Major, they affirm their commitment to her vision: a world where Black trans voices are heard, respected, and celebrated. “We will continue to chant her name,” Banks said passionately. “She’s still f**king here.”
The impact of Miss Major’s work reverberates across Alabama and beyond, igniting a new generation of activists determined to carry her torch forward. As they navigate the complexities of an increasingly challenging landscape, the spirit of Miss Major remains an unwavering source of strength and inspiration.
What’s next: Activists will continue to rally for trans rights and community support, ensuring that Miss Major’s legacy drives their vital work in the face of adversity.
