Kelly Harrison
By Dennis Richmond, Jr.
On Juneteenth 2025, Harlem’s Apollo Theater transformed into a runway of resilience, brilliance, and joy as Fem Queen Honors paid tribute to the Black and Latinx trans women who have shaped culture, history, and ballroom itself.
Held on June 19th and hosted by Gia Love and Jazell Barbie Royale, the evening was equal parts celebration and call to action. Organized by Jonovia Chase with House Lives Matter, it drew crowds from New York City and Westchester. Creative direction came from Courtney Washington Balenciaga, with choreography by Craig Washington, Jay Parel, Arturo Mugler, and more.
Kelly Harrison, the voice of Ballroom Media, sat down for an exclusive interview with Yonkers Rising during Fem Queen Honors. She shared two pieces of advice. First, to the baby fem queens, she said they should “take their time.” She added, “It’s not a race to the finish line.” Second, she shared, “The community doesn’t make you. You make the community.” These are wise words, coming from one of the most prominent voices in the Ballroom Scene today.
The term Fem Queen refers to a trans woman within ballroom culture. Ballroom itself is one of the most vital, defiant, and artistically rich movements in LGBTQ+ history. This year’s honorees included Duchess La Wong, Tracey Africa Norman, Dominique Jackson, Leiomy Maldonado, and Courtney Washington Balenciaga.
The Apollo, long a sacred ground for Black artistry, pulsed with affirmation. One standout moment came when a chorus of Fem Queens stormed the stage to Whitney Houston’s “I’m Every Woman,” transforming the venue into a sanctuary of trans joy. When Morgan Royel and Empress Viscaya led a breathtaking “Fallen Angels” tribute to honor those lost, the crowd was deeply moved.
“Fem Queens are also vulnerable,” said Jackson in a timely speech. “The ones first attacked. All of my sisters—murdered. Violently. Brutally.” Her words cut through the celebration, underscoring the persistent threats Black and Latinx trans women face—not only from systemic neglect, but from violence itself.
Another emotional beat came from Courtney ToPanga Washington, who reflected on her journey with quiet conviction: “That’s not luck, that’s purpose.” In a world where existing as a trans woman is often resistance, her statement rang like gospel.
Dennis Richmond, Jr. (@NewYorkStakz) is a journalist, historian, and educator from Yonkers, NY. He writes to uplift unheard voices, honor history, and inspire change.
