In the face of trans erasure, what can we learn from Marsha P. Johnson?

Code Switch

NPR

Society & Culture

4.6 • 14.5K Ratings

🗓️ 30 April 2025

⏱️ 35 minutes

🔗️ Recording | iTunes | RSS

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Summary

Marsha P. Johnson was a trailblazer in the fight for gay rights. But Johnson's legacy extends beyond her activism: "Marsha was a really full person who lived a vibrant life. She was a muse and model for Andy Warhol," and a performer in New York City and London. In this episode, we talk to activist and author Tourmaline about what we can all learn from Johnson's legacy in times of adversity.

Tourmaline's two books about Marsha P. Johnson — Marsha: The Joy and Defiance of Marsha P. Johnson and One Day in June — are out on May 20, 2025.

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Transcript

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0:00.0	This is Eric Glass.
0:01.8	In Lily's family, there's a story everybody knows by heart.
0:05.2	If this story had never happened...
0:06.8	All of us wouldn't be here right now.
0:08.6	Sammy wouldn't be here.
0:09.7	She's Nana wouldn't be here.
0:10.8	Wally wouldn't be here.
0:12.3	Anyone that we know wouldn't be here.
0:14.9	So what happens when Lily's mom tells her, this story is not true?
0:20.0	This American life, surprising stories every week.
0:24.5	Hey everyone, you're listening to Code Switch. I'm Bea Parker. It was the first warm day of spring in
0:32.4	New York City, and I found myself by the water in Williamsburg. Where are we right now?
0:37.6	Marshbury-. Johnson Park.
0:39.0	In 2020, the state park was renamed to honor Black Transpioner Marsha P. Johnson.
0:45.2	It's touted as the first state park named after a trans person.
0:50.0	You can enter the park through this massive flower-covered archway
0:54.3	with Johnson's model written above saying,
0:57.4	Pay it No Mind.
0:59.2	And down every other pathway is a placard with an explanation of her history and impact.
1:05.2	But when I went around asking people if they knew who Marsha P. Johnson was,
1:11.5	do you know who Marsha P. Johnson is?
1:13.1	No.
	...

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