Laverne Cox is an American actress and LGBTQ advocate who rose to fame with her role in the Netflix series “Orange is the New Black.” Born on May 29, 1984, in Mobile, Alabama, Cox was raised in a Southern Baptist household and faced discrimination and bullying for being transgender..
Despite the challenges she faced, Cox persevered and went on to become the first openly transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in the acting category and the first to appear on the cover of Time magazine. She is also a recipient of the Dorian Rising Star Award and the Courage Award from the LGBT Community Center of New York.
Cox has been a tireless advocate for the LGBTQ community and has used her platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by trans people, especially those of color. She has been an outspoken advocate for trans rights and has worked to increase the visibility and understanding of the trans community. She has also been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ youth and has spoken out against bullying and discrimination.
In addition to her acting and advocacy work, Cox has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts. She is a founding member of the Trans Women of Color Collective, which provides support and resources for trans women of color. She is also a board member of the LGBT Community Center of New York and has served on the board of directors for the Hetrick-Martin Institute, which provides support and services to LGBTQ youth.
Cox's contributions to the LGBTQ community have not gone unnoticed. She has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including the Trailblazer Award from the Point Foundation, the Visibility Award from the Human Rights Campaign, and the LGBT Hero Award from The Advocate.
In conclusion, Laverne Cox is a trailblazer who has made a significant impact on the LGBTQ community. Through her acting, advocacy, and philanthropic work, she has inspired and empowered countless people to live their truth and fight for their rights. Her unwavering commitment to the LGBTQ community is a testament to her courage, compassion, and dedication to making the world a better place for all.
