Atlanta march demands transgender rights

In Atlanta on June 27, some 175 members of the transgender community and their supporters marched on the 40th anniversary of the historic Stonewall Rebellion, the militant birth of the modern trans, lesbian, gay, bi and queer movement in the U.S. The demonstration highlighted demands for access to employment, services and safety for transgender people. Deeply moving testimonies at pre- and post-march rallies by transmen and transwomen exposed the discrimination, bigotry and violence committed against them.

Photo: Dr. Maxwell Anderson

The upbeat atmosphere of the marchers was enhanced by the music of the Atlanta Sedition Orchestra, which led the way, and the banner-laden Georgia Peace and Justice Coalition bio-fuel bus, “Rosa,” that held the rear. Initiated by Human Rights Atlanta, the three-day commemoration included a panel discussion by transgender activists and a film screening on June 25 and 26.