On August 24th, 2023, we would have celebrated the 78th birthday of Marsha P. Johnson, a towering figure in the LGBTQ+ rights movement whose impact continues to reverberate through time. As we reflect on her legacy, Johnson’s words echo powerfully:
“We have to be visible. We should not be ashamed of who we are.”
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2GAD8JP // June 6, 1991: Marsha P. Johnson at Baltimore Gay Pride // Patsy Lynch
Marsha P. Johnson’s life was marked by unwavering dedication to visibility, self-acceptance, and advocacy. A trailblazer, a self-identified drag queen, and a transgender woman of colour, she fearlessly navigated a world that often rejected her. From the early days of the LGBTQ+ rights movement in the 1960s through her pivotal role in the Stonewall Uprising of 1969, Johnson tirelessly fought for a future where everyone could embrace their identities without hesitation.
Marsha P. Johnson’s advocacy transcends time and geography, making her an enduring symbol of hope and resilience for LGBTQ+ individuals around the world. Her courage and determination remind us that every step toward progress, no matter how small, is a step worth taking.
JEMYY8 // New York, USA. 25th Jun, 2017. Poster tribute to activist Marsha P. Johnson at The March hosted by Heritage of Pride on Fifth Avenue during NYC LGBT Pride on Sunday June 25, 2017 in New York, USA // SEAN DRAKES
Let’s remember Marsha P. Johnson, the trailblazer who taught us to be proud of who we are, even in the face of adversity. Her words continue to guide us as we navigate the complexities of the present moment, and her spirit lives on in every march, every advocacy effort, and every heart that beats with pride.
View our Marsha P Johnson Lightbox.