Thousands Gather in Support of Black Trans Lives

Related | How to Support Black Trans People Right Now

The peaceful protest, called Brooklyn Liberation: An Action for Black Trans Lives, drew an incredibly massive crowd that covered blocks around the Brooklyn Museum. It was organized by The Okra Project, Marsha P. Johnson Institute, For the Gworls, G.L.I.T.S. and Black Trans Femmes in the Arts.

There was a rally with speakers including transgender activist Raquel Willis, author Ceyenne Doroshow and the family of Layleen Polanco. People chanted "Black trans lives matter" together through their masks, and held up signs that bore the same message. Later, the crowd marched through the borough.

On the same day, tens of thousands also gathered on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles for the All Black Lives Matter protest, in place of the Los Angeles Pride Parade, which was cancelled due to COVID-19.

The day before the protest, volunteers painted "ALL BLACK LIVES MATTER" on the intersection of Hollywood and Highland Avenue to represent inclusivity and amplify the importance of advocating for Black trans lives in the movement. The event itself, which was organized by All Black Lives Matter Los Angeles, was not just a plea for justice but a celebration that included music, dancing and performances by queer Black artists.

To read about how you can support Black trans lives, click here.

Photography: Hatnim Lee