Out gay Pose star Billy Porter recently gave his third annual LGBTQ State of Union speech for Logo TV where he spoke out against the increased hostility towards the LGBTQ+ community, particularly trans people. 2020 was the deadliest year on record for trans Americans, with 44 murders recorded. So far, 12 have been killed this year, with activists fearful that 2021 will be even more deadly than last year.
In response to the rising cases of violence, Porter said “our responsibility as citizens has never been more urgent”, and described the killings as “atrocious and unacceptable”. He added: “We lift up our own and find strength in the collective fight to live happily in peace as our authentic, fabulous selves…We must do more though, and we must do better to protect trans lives.” However, he reminded viewers that “brighter days are ahead if we continue to work towards them together”.
Porter also discussed the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the LGBTQ+ community, saying it has taken a “disproportionate toll” on queer people. He encouraged LGBTQ+ people to “put our community’s health above our desire to kiki in large groups until we can all safely dance under the disco ball again”. He concluded: “Be safe, be good to each other, and remember, we will feel joy again soon.”
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