Ryan Hope: Honoring Dominique Newbern and the Fight for LGBTQIA+ Visibility
The more that we can normalize this and for people to be free and who they are, then we'll stop having people that are murdered, because the world will be more aware that there are other people out there and that they're living their true, authentic selves.
When tragedy strikes, it can sometimes light a fire for change. In this episode of 'Shame on Shame', Kate Geller sits down with Ryan Hope, the creative force behind the docu-series 'Hollywood Houseboys'. Ryan's life took a devastating turn in 2013 when his best friend and cast-mate, Dominique Newbern, a trans woman of color, was brutally murdered.
This horrific event halted the show's production but sparked a mission in Ryan to honor Dominique and raise awareness about the violence faced by trans women of color. Ryan opens up about the painful journey of mourning Dominique and how he found purpose in continuing her legacy through his work. The conversation delves into the grim reality of hate crimes against trans women, shedding light on the broader issue of violence within the black-queer community.
Kate and Ryan also tackle the complexities of LGBTQIA+ terminology, making it accessible for listeners who might be new to these discussions. Religion's role in shaping LGBTQIA+ shame is another poignant topic they explore, alongside the crucial need for greater visibility and inclusion. Ryan's personal story of overcoming shame adds a deeply human element to the episode, showing that even in the darkest times, there can be a path to healing and advocacy.
Currently, Ryan is making waves at major companies like HBO and Disney as an advocate for diversity and inclusion. His insights into media representation highlight the power of accurate and respectful portrayals in shaping societal views. This episode isn't just about Dominique's tragic story; it's a call to action for all of us to stand against shame and violence and to support the fight for justice and equality.
So, if you're ready to be inspired by a story of resilience and advocacy, tune in to hear Ryan Hope's powerful narrative.