Hundreds of trans and nonbinary TV and film writers, along with their allies, organized a powerful demonstration labeled the “Trans Takeover” outside Netflix’s Los Angeles headquarters amidst the ongoing Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike. This protest comes as members of the union, which represents writers in the entertainment industry, have initiated a strike due to unsuccessful negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) regarding fair compensation. The streaming era has significantly impacted writers’ livelihoods, prompting the WGA to demand improved pay.
The picketers at Netflix aimed to shed light on two crucial concerns: employment opportunities for trans writers and the portrayal of trans individuals on television. Netflix has faced criticism for canceling numerous LGBTQ+ inclusive shows in recent months and hosting transphobic comedy specials from prominent comedians like Dave Chappelle and Ricky Gervais. By raising their voices, protesters sought to emphasize the importance of accurate representation and opportunities for trans writers in the industry.
Jacob Tobia, author of the memoir “Sissy” and a voice actor on Netflix’s “She-Ra and the Princesses of Power,” expressed the significance of trans and nonbinary inclusion in the labor movement. Tobia emphasized that strikes serve as pivotal moments to redefine who has a seat at the table, urging the world to acknowledge their presence and commit to their community’s dignity, lives, and economic vitality.
Hollywood’s apparent abandonment of the trans and nonbinary community amid the rise of anti-trans legislation in the United States has left Tobia feeling disheartened. Tokenism in the hiring process, where cisgender showrunners employ only a few trans and nonbinary writers, was a point of criticism raised by Sydney Baloue, a producer and screenwriter present at the protest. Baloue stressed that trans and nonbinary individuals have the right to tell their own stories authentically.
Jen Richards, known for her role in “Mayfair Witches,” echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that trans writers should not be confined solely to trans-centric narratives. Richards highlighted the industry’s need to recognize their diverse storytelling capabilities beyond their gender identity, urging for more substantial opportunities. The demonstration also included a lively event called the “Picket Ball,” featuring categories like “Best Sign” and “Best Dressed,” providing a platform for creative expression and unity.
Baloue, reflecting on the importance of the protest, highlighted the urgency of celebrating trans voices in an anti-trans climate where discriminatory legislation continues to pass. The entertainment industry holds the potential to effect cultural change, and now is the time to uplift and empower trans and nonbinary voices. The ongoing fight for equality and representation is a civil rights movement of our generation, resonating with the aspirations of trans and nonbinary youth who seek an inclusive and joyous future.