Now, if you have been living under a rock for the past three years then you may not know who Laverne Cox is. But for the rest of us, she is one of the supporting cast members on the hit Netflix series Orange is the New Black. She has broken down barriers and made history as one of the first transwomen to play a trans character, and not as a caricature. She was also the first transwoman to win a Primetime Emmy Award and she is a recipient of the Stephen F. Kolzak award from GLAAD. In addition to these awards she is also the first transwoman to appear on the cover of Time magazine.
For those of you that might not be familiar with what being trans is like Cox had this to say
“There’s not just one trans experience. And I think what they need to understand is that not everybody who is born feels that their gender identity is in alignment with what they’re assigned at birth, based on their genitalia. If someone needs to express their gender in a way that is different, that is okay, and they should not be denied healthcare. They should not be bullied. They don’t deserve to be victims of violence. … That’s what people need to understand, that it’s okay and that if you are uncomfortable with it, then you need to look at yourself.” –
-“The Orange Is the New Black star on politics, happiness and why genitalia isn’t destiny”, Time Magazine.
Broadway Bares is an annual fundraising event that not only promotes awareness of HIV/AIDS but also helps to fund its research. Cox’s Burlesque inspired performance got the audience going as she stepped onto the stage in nothing but stockings, a corset and sequined pasties. Performing to the Banarama 80’s classic “Venus” club version,and she gave us moves like Beyonce! This may not be commonly known about Cox but she started studying dance at a very young age. Her back up dancers were full of energy and of course her male dancers were scantily clad and ripped.
For more information on the good works of Broadway Bares visit this link with highlights from Sunday nights performance as well as information on future events and ways to donate. Also, for your social justice fix as well as an opportunity to see clips of her personality follow @Lavernecox on twitter here.
 
