Celebrating Black History - Marsha P. Johnson
Marsha P. Johnson was a black transgender woman who trail-blazed the LGBTQ+ movement in 1969. She was the chief architect of the Stonewall Riots and was committed to helping transgender youth experiencing homelessness in New York City. In 1963 Johnson met Sylvia Rivera, 17 years old at the time, who also became a tireless advocate fighting against the exclusion of transgender people, especially those of color, from the larger movement for gay rights. Rivera was reported to say that meeting Johnson changed her life. The two women went on to establish a haven for transgender youth experiencing homelessness. Rivera fought against the exclusion of transgender people from the Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act that eventually passed in 2002. Their legacy lives on through the Marsha P Johnson Institute whose mission is to “protect and defend the human rights of BLACK transgender people by organizing, advocating, creating an intentional community to heal, developing transformative leadership, and promoting our collective power,” and the Sylvia Rivera Law Project that works to guarantee that “all people are free to self-determine their gender identity and expression, regardless of income or race, and without facing harassment, discrimination, or violence.”
Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, from The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson.
March 8, 2022 is International Women’s Day. We choose to honor these women for the sacrifices they made to advance equity for all women. The staff at CISPAC work each day to provide safe spaces for students to be their most authentic selves. Our work exists to break down barriers so that all young people are afforded the chance to live their truth, achieve their goals, and succeed in school and beyond. Our staff have the lived experience to connect with our students on a deeper level. They use those connections to build relationships with students that provide consistent and caring support. Their work carries on the legacy of justice and equity pioneered by Johnson and Rivera.s lifelong dedication to equality for all.
Read More:
Profile - Marsha P. Johnson - County of Union, NJ - Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs
Celebrating Black History Series
Black greatness is a reality every day, all year, not just during Black history month. For that reason, we are making a commitment to recognize diverse history-makers throughout the year because Black history is American history. Our “Spotlight on Black History” will feature well-known, and lesser-known black heroes trailblazers, changemakers, and community champions. Black Americans have made invaluable contributions to science, education, healthcare, the arts, civil rights, politics, and culture. Their stories have made an indelible mark in every aspect of our society, and we hope that you will join us as we salute Black history-makers. Who are the black heroes in your life? Email Lauren at lbrown@cispac.org with your tribute and we may feature it on our platforms.