Emmy-nominated actress and advocate Laverne Cox stepped up as the keynote speaker at the Trans Liberation Now! Rally took place on April 5 at the Los Angeles LGBT Center. The event brought together hundreds of community members, allies, and partner groups to demand justice, safety, and liberation for transgender, nonbinary, intersex, and gender-expansive individuals.
The event was organized in collaboration with groups like the TransLatin@ Coalition and Equality California. Together, they called for national attention on the challenges facing trans and nonbinary individuals.
During her speech, Cox emphasized the importance of truth in a democratic society. Citing author Jason Stanley, she stated, “The center of democracy is truth. You’re not free if you’ve been lied to.” She urged people to reject misinformation and focus instead on the real sources of inequality.
Cox also addressed the political scapegoating of vulnerable communities. “The real enemy’s not migrants or poor people… it’s the plutocrats, the oligarchs, the billionaires and corporations,” she said, pointing to the systems that foster division and oppression.
The rally included performances by Miss Shalae and DJ Nico Craig, blending celebration with activism. Attendees had access to a Resource Fair offering legal aid, health services, and housing support for trans and gender-diverse individuals.
Laverne Cox’s presence energized the crowd and highlighted the need for solidarity in the face of ongoing threats to trans rights. Her message was one of courage, clarity, and community—a reminder that the fight for liberation must continue.
Source: Los Angeles LGBT Center