Justice Smith Fights for LGBTQ+ Inclusion in Black Lives Matter
The Detective Pikachu actor attended a protest in New Orleans, LA, on June 5.
On his Instagram, Smith shared a video where protesters can be heard singing: “Black Trans Lives are sacred. Black Trans Lives are worthy.” The protest is one of many happening around the world to support Black Lives Matter, sparked after the death of George Floyd, a Black man killed by a police officer in Minnesota.
While he supported the movement, Smith made a point that Black LGBTQ+ lives also need to be included and advocated for. In particular, he emphasized the death of Tony McDade, a Black transgender man who was killed by police in Tallahassee, FL, on May 27.
“As a black queer man myself, I was disappointed to see certain people eager to say Black Lives Matter, but hold their tongue when Trans/Queer was added,” Smith wrote in the caption. “[The revolution] is about demanding what should have been given to us from the beginning. What should have been given to black, queer, and trans individuals from the beginning. Which is the right to exist. To live and prosper in public. Without fear of persecution or threat of violence.”
Throughout the past week, Smith has been vocal about his support for Black Lives Matter, particularly regarding safe protesting, education on racial injustice, and Black Trans lives. On his Instagram page, he spotlighted several Black Trans Organizations that fans can donate to, as well as bail funds and legal help in numerous cities.
Wherever you are, if you are protesting, please be safe. Do not forget that your phone is a powerful weapon. Post lots of video. Let people know what’s really happening on the inside and combat the people committed to changing the narrative.
— Justice Smith (@standup4justice) May 29, 2020
This was also the first time that Smith came out as queer. He also revealed that he is dating actor Nicholas Ashe, who attended the New Orleans protest with him. The news was met with love and support from fans on his Instagram and Twitter.
yo tf i didn’t come out, y’all came in
— Justice Smith (@standup4justice) June 6, 2020
You can still make a difference and fight for Black Lives Matter. Make sure to support organizations that focus on intersections with the LGBTQ community, like the Black Visions Collective. You can also click here to find more resources on how to protest, and where to donate.
