On Thursday, Time magazine announced its annual list of influential figures, the Time 100, and one name stood out in the field of journalism and activism: Imara Jones, founder of TransLash Media, a nonprofit organization that brings to light the unique experiences of Black trans lives. Jones’ recognition by a mainstream media publication is an overdue milestone for the transgender community, and her inclusion marks a move away from the usual celebrity names like RuPaul and Janet Mock.
In an essay for the magazine, artist and activist Tourmaline writes about Jones’ contributions to the field of journalism and her pioneering work in LGBTQ+ activism. Tourmaline praises Jones’ vision of the world where Black trans futures are beyond just survival but filled with love and pleasure, and how her work cultivates awareness and desire for those futures. Through TransLash Media, Jones has shown that Black trans perspectives are essential in creating a society that is open and where they can thrive.
Jones’ work is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling. “Because stories dictate how we [see] ourselves and the world around us,” Jones said in an interview, “telling trans stories is essential to creating a society that is open for us and where we can thrive. And Black trans perspectives are essential to that.”
Jones’ recognition is especially significant in a time of heightened hostility towards the transgender community around the world. She acknowledges the countless people who have made both her and her work possible and reminds us that “we have to live our lives boldly as trans people because they could always not.”
Jones has contributed to a wide array of news outlets, including The Guardian and NPR. Before her career in journalism, she headed the Know HIV-AIDS campaign at Viacom, winning two Emmy awards and a Peabody. Her current podcasting project, The Anti-Trans Hate Machine, explores the ways conservatives have pushed transphobia into the mainstream.
In a conversation with Them, Jones expressed her gratitude for the recognition, saying, “I am feeling all the feels today, but the one that stands out for me is profound gratitude.” Jones’ work is an inspiration for the transgender community, and her recognition by Time magazine is a significant milestone towards a more inclusive and diverse media landscape.