A wave of anti-transgender legislation sweeping the country prompted queer activists and allies to organize “Trans Day of Vengeance,” a protest during the nationally recognized Trans Day of Visibility on Friday, March 31.
“Transphobia has got to go!” activists yelled, waving flags and signs while marching down Hollywood Boulevard, as honking cars drove by.
With growing attacks and discriminatory legislation on the rise, at least 200 activists on Friday marched to demand safety and equality for this community, especially vulnerable trans and queer youth — many of whom are targeted in recent bills, ranging from bathroom bills, to drag show and trans athlete bans. The march in Hollywood coincided with Trans Day of Visibility events from the Inland Empire to the coastal L.A. area to Orange County.
Marliese Hegele found Friday’s Hollywood event through TikTok, where queer content creators had been promoting local, state and national protests.
“I just wanted to show support for my community. I mean, there’s hundreds of anti-trans legislation bills being proposed, even in states that you would think would be safe,” Hegele said. “And then there’s actually ones that are horrific that are going through and being passed. And it’s very, it’s very terrifying.”
The march began on the corner of Highland and Hollywood in Los Angeles. Securing the crowd were community members who wore all-black garb, blocking their faces. Their goal was to secure the protesters, keeping an eye out for violent opposition.
While there were some police present, the community-led security helped protect the identity of protesters, especially youth, by blocking onlookers with cameras with signage and umbrellas.
Leading up to Friday’s demonstration, President Joe Biden officially recognized the movement in a proclamation on Thursday, March 30. California lawmakers also recognized as Trans Visibility Week with several events at the Capitol.
A self-proclaimed…
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