Clockwise: Nekia Zulu, Jonovia Chase, Divine Bey, and Yonkers native Cienna Rosalina.
By Dennis Richmond, Jr.
“As trans women, we are some of the strongest women walking this earth.” These powerful words from Yonkers native Cienna Rosalina, a social media star and activist, echo the strength of countless Black trans women who are reshaping history today. In honor of Black History Month, we spotlight the work and influence of four Black trans women—Jonovia Chase, Nekia Zulu, Cienna Rosalina, and Divine Bey—whose stories are breaking barriers, shattering stereotypes, and fighting for a future where their identities are not only accepted but celebrated.
In a time when Blackness and queerness are too often seen as separate, these women are rewriting the narrative, reminding us that the fight for racial justice and LGBTQ+ rights are deeply intertwined. They are showing up, not just for themselves, but for the entire Black and trans community. But their journey hasn’t been easy—especially as anti-trans legislation sweeps the nation, and the visibility of Black trans women continues to be met with violence. Black trans women are disproportionately affected by hate, violence, and systemic exclusion. These four are fighting to ensure that their stories are heard, their rights are protected, and their contributions to culture are recognized.
Nekia Zulu, an entertainer and activist, remains dedicated to creating spaces where Black queer people can thrive. “I’m very intentional in making sure it’s something for Black queer people,” she says. As a woman who has dedicated her life to uplifting marginalized voices, Nekia’s commitment to being a source of strength for others is unwavering. “It’s my job to be strong so others can be strengthened by what I do.” In a world that constantly attempts to erase Black trans women from the conversation, Nekia reminds us that community is everything, and no one should ever feel alone in their journey.
Divine Bey, a host and community leader from the DMV area, is a beacon of light for those seeking solace and belonging. Through her platform, she stresses the importance of unity, not just within the trans community, but for Black people as a whole. “We really need to come together and look out for each other,” Divine says. Her call for solidarity echoes the reality that Black trans women face daily—rejection, discrimination, and hate. But she is resolute: “I’ve done a lot for the community in the DMV,” showing that even in the face of adversity, she is determined to ensure that Black trans people have a place to call home.
Jonovia Chase, a producer and dancer whose art speaks directly to the heart of Black identity, is frustrated by the lack of support for trans individuals within the broader LGBTQ+ community. “I am beginning to lose faith in the broader LGBTQ+ community’s commitment to advocating for the inclusion of transgender individuals,” Jonovia shares. While issues like gay marriage gained overwhelming support, she points out the glaring absence of action when it comes to defending Black trans women’s rights. “The discussions surrounding transgender women in sports are not only targeted but also misogynistic and inhumane. It’s pure HATE.”
Through their work, these four women are demanding the space and respect they deserve. They are not just shaping culture—they are changing it. As Black trans women, they face obstacles that many cannot fathom, but their determination to push forward in the face of violence, discrimination, and fear is a testament to their resilience.
This Black History Month, we honor Jonovia Chase, Nekia Zulu, Divine Bey, and Cienna Rosalina. Not to mention the contributions of Black trans women like Marsha P. Johnson, Laverne Cox, and Madison “Ts Madison” Hinton. These trailblazers either have or are still breaking barriers, reclaiming their narratives, and paving the way for future generations to live with pride and power. In a world that tries to silence our trans sisters, they continue to amplify their voices, demanding recognition and respect. It’s our job to help them.
Dennis Richmond Jr. lives in Yonkers and is on Twitter @NewYorkStakz. He is a journalist focused on Black, Latinx, and LGBTQ+ Communities.
