Name: Elle Hearns

Age you feel? I don't ever really feel an age. It depends on how much work i've done that day and how much love I've gotten that day.

Pronouns: she/her/hers

2020 Mantra: Let all this shit burn.

Cultural Background: BLACK

Can you share a little bit about the work you do for the Marsha P. Johnson Institute?

I’m the founder and executive director, which means I do a lot of everything. The Marsha P. Johnson Institute (MPJI) protects and defends the human rights of BLACK transgender people. We do this by organizing, advocating, creating an intentional community to heal, developing transformative leadership, and promoting our collective power.

What are the things you struggle with as a Black trans activist?

That people call me a Black trans activist. I am a BLACK woman that believes that black women deserve to be honored, supported and loved. And who deserves to live. I am a BLACK woman.

What are the most rewarding moments in this work?

Seeing members from my community have an opportunity to have more for themselves and have more with each other.

How can we be more involved in fighting for Black trans lives and representation?

Continue to redistribute resources and provide space for a multitude of experiences to be reflected back to the world.

What are some mental health care tips for the Black trans community?

Make sure that resources and money are allocated to ensure BLACK trans people can meet mental health needs, whether that's harm reduction, clinical support or just literally for cosmetic surgery. There are so many financial barriers that impact our mental health. We need to improve and encourage the resources available to support our mental health needs.

Who are some key figures in your life that you lean on?

My mother, Miss Major, and one of my bestest friends, Janisha Gabriel.

TOP 3 BLACK TRANS LEADERS WE NEED TO FOLLOW: Miss Major Griffin-Gracy,Texas Isaiah, Desi Hall

CURRENT ON REPEAT SONG: Nothing to Lose.-The Clark Sisters

FAV SHOW: Insecure

FAV CUISINE: Italian

FAV TWEET: ME @SOULFREEDREAMS

FAV COCKTAIL: Henny and Apple Juice

FAV PLACE TO GO ON A DATE (PRE-QUARANTINE): South beach

FAV CHILDHOOD TV SHOW: Moesha

FAV ACCESSORY: Elle nameplate necklace

ELLE HEARNS