Miss Major Griffin-Gracy’s Legacy Inspires Black Trans Activism in Alabama

The legacy of Miss Major Griffin-Gracy, a pivotal figure in the fight for transgender rights, continues to shape the landscape of activism in Alabama. On what would have been her birthday, a memorial was held at the Mosaic Templars Center in Little Rock, Arkansas, honoring her contributions to the Black trans liberation movement. Miss Major passed away on October 18, 2023, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of advocacy that spanned over five decades.

Miss Major’s activism began in earnest during the historic Stonewall Riot in June 1969, where she played a crucial role in resisting police brutality against LGBTQ+ individuals. Throughout the 1980s, she founded the Angels of Care, a group that provided vital support for those affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Her commitment to uplifting marginalized communities continued as she served as the director of a trans drop-in clinic in San Francisco, helping incarcerated trans individuals. In 2018, she made Arkansas her home, where she established a sanctuary for trans individuals, underscoring her belief in community care.

Her mantra, “I’m still f**king here!” encapsulated her resilience and commitment to activism. This spirit has inspired two Black trans-led nonprofits in Alabama: TAKE and TKO. These organizations have provided essential services, including food, shelter, and healthcare, in a state that has recently enacted stringent anti-trans laws. Alabama was notably the first state to criminalize gender-affirming medical care for minors.

During a recent policy debate, the Alabama Public Library Service considered banning books that discuss “transgender ideology” in youth sections. In this climate, TAKE and TKO have emerged as critical lifelines for the Black trans community. TKO, established as the first Black and trans-led AIDS service organization and clinic in Alabama, has become a beacon of hope for many.

Daroneshia Duncan-Boyd, founder of TAKE, credits Miss Major with teaching her the importance of community building. “We have to stay together. We must continue to fight,” she stated, emphasizing the need for unity in the face of adversity. This commitment to community care is reflected in TAKE’s evolution into a multimillion-dollar nonprofit, offering services such as job readiness training, legal assistance, and an emergency shelter named Gloria’s Safe Haven.

The challenges facing Black trans individuals are stark. A 2011 study by the National LGBTQ Task Force revealed that Black trans people face a staggering unemployment rate of 26%, significantly higher than the general population. Additionally, 41% of Black trans respondents reported experiencing homelessness, underscoring the urgent need for organizations like TAKE and TKO.

Caldwell, executive director of TKO, noted that Miss Major’s influence extends beyond her activism. “She had a care-first approach to the work,” they explained. Miss Major’s legacy is evident in the way both organizations operate, prioritizing compassion and support for their communities.

Duncan-Boyd and Caldwell reflect on their personal journeys with Miss Major. Duncan-Boyd first encountered her nearly nine years ago during the Black Girls Rulez convention, where they quickly formed a deep bond. Miss Major’s nurturing spirit was evident, as she took Duncan-Boyd under her wing, guiding her through the complexities of activism.

Caldwell’s admiration for Miss Major grew as they learned about her history. They described her as a figure who provided aid to those in need, likening her to a superhero. “That was her Batmobile,” Caldwell remarked, recalling how Miss Major would traverse the streets to support marginalized individuals.

In her later years, Miss Major continued to inspire the next generation of activists. During an event organized by TKO and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Alabama, she engaged with fellows, sharing her wisdom and encouragement. Her memoir, “Miss Major Speaks,” co-authored with Toshio Meronek, offers insights into her remarkable life and activism.

Despite her passing, Miss Major’s impact remains palpable among those she inspired. Activists continue to honor her legacy by advocating for Black trans rights and fostering a sense of community. “We’re going to chant her name till we can’t chant no more,” said Banks, another advocate who emphasized the importance of remembering Miss Major as a guiding force in their fight for equality.

Both TAKE and TKO embody Miss Major’s vision of a supportive and joyful community. They host events that foster a sense of belonging, recognizing that joy and justice must coexist in the struggle against discrimination. Caldwell articulated this sentiment, stating, “When Black trans folks have each other, there is just something healing about the gathering.”

As Alabama grapples with mounting anti-trans legislation and societal challenges, the resilience and dedication of organizations like TAKE and TKO, inspired by Miss Major Griffin-Gracy, shine as beacons of hope. Her legacy will continue to guide future generations in the pursuit of justice and community support for Black trans individuals.