Tori Cooper’s journey as a guardian angel for Atlanta’s trans and HIV communities has now extended to a national level. Recently appointed as the Director of Community Engagement for the Transgender Justice Initiative at the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), Cooper brings her wealth of experience to the forefront in the fight for LGBTQ+ equality.
In her role at HRC, Cooper’s focus encompasses critical areas such as economic empowerment, capacity building programs, public safety, and expanded public education campaigns. Her dedication to these causes has not gone unnoticed, as President Joe Biden appointed her to the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV & AIDS during the early days of his term.
But Cooper’s path to this pivotal role was built on years of grassroots service. A Virginia native, she made significant strides in Atlanta, from volunteering to founding Advocates for Better Care Atlanta, an organization dedicated to addressing the healthcare needs of the city’s marginalized residents. Prior to joining HRC, Cooper worked as a consultant and prevention specialist at Atlanta’s Positive Impact Health Centers, offering crucial HIV care to trans individuals and other underserved communities.
For Cooper, advocacy is a personal calling. “This is my family, and it’s simply the right thing to do,” she states. She reflects on her journey from hesitancy to becoming an activist, driven by the desire to ensure that future generations of trans individuals don’t face the same struggles she did. Her hope is for the trans community to encounter fewer barriers in their quest for love, respect, and acceptance, finding peace and liberation in their own unique journeys.
As Tori Cooper continues to champion trans and LGBQ+ rights, her unwavering commitment serves as a beacon of hope for those who seek equality and understanding. Her work represents a crucial step towards a more inclusive and compassionate world for all.