The transgender community is not an auxiliary wing of LGBTQ culture; it is a core element. Historical amnesia about Stonewall, resource hoarding, and “drop the T” arguments threaten to fragment a coalition that depends on mutual aid. A mature, resilient LGBTQ culture must confront cisgenderism within its own ranks. Only by embracing the full spectrum of gender diversity can the LGBTQ movement honor its radical origins and build an effective politics for all gender and sexual minorities.

Much of what the world currently recognizes as mainstream LGBTQ+ culture—including slang, fashion, dance, and humor—originates directly from the historical trans and gender-nonconforming community, specifically Black and Latine trans individuals within the ballroom scene.

These platforms host a spectrum ranging from high-budget studio features to independent, self-produced media.

: Ensuring transgender people are centered in discussions regarding their own rights, healthcare, and stories.