Historic Trans Chorus Performance At Biden’s Inauguration “Parade Across America”
The 59th Quadrennial Presidential Inauguration brings new hope for many communities across America at a time when they need it most. President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris have been fierce allies to the trans community by promising change as well as extending the Civil Rights Act’s protections to LGBTQ people. It only seems fitting that the inauguration’s historic and virtual “Parade Across America” featured the first-ever, all-trans-identified chorus among other diverse artists.
As stated on their website, The Trans Chorus of Los Angeles is “the first al-trans-identified chorus in America, consisting of transgender, nonbinary, intersex, gender-nonconforming and gender-fluid individuals.”
The diverse chorus has been taking Pride festivals, women’s marches, and radio shows by storm on top of being one of the six, trans-affirming choirs to perform during the November 2020 Trans Day of Resilience! During the inauguration, the choir performed alongside Earth, Wind & Fire, Nile Rodgers, and Kathy Sledge as part of DJ Cassidy’s “Pass The Mic.”
“At the inauguration, some kid in the Midwest is going to see trans people on the TV not hiding who they are. This gives me hope for the kids out there,” says artistic director Abdullah Hall in an interview with the Los Angeles Blade.
This marks an important day in history for the trans community, especially after Biden’s recent announcement to nominate Dr. Levine as assistant secretary of health. If confirmed, she will be the first openly transgender federal official in U.S. History.
“President Biden and Vice-President Harris have continued to keep their promise to create an administration that reflects the diversity and life experiences of America,” says HRC President Alphonso David.
The virtual parade featured dynamic performances in communities in all 56 states and territories, celebrating America’s heroes, and highlighting the diversity, heritage, and resilience of the country. A welcomed change after the eye-opening year we have all faced.
