New York City, February 22, 2025 – A large crowd gathered at the historic Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village on Saturday to demand greater inclusion and rights for transgender individuals within the broader LGBTQ+ movement. The protest, titled “No LGBQ Without T,” brought together activists, community leaders, and allies, emphasizing the crucial role of transgender people in the fight for equality.
In this striking image from the No LGBQ Without T rally at the Stonewall National Monument on February 22, 2025, activist Jay W. Walker (he/him/his), President of Gays Against Guns, Co-founder of the Queer Liberation March, and member of Rise and Resist, passionately addresses the crowd through a black and gold megaphone. His stance is firm, mouth open mid-speech as he commands attention.
Jay is wearing a black beanie, a black t-shirt with bold red and white text reading “ASEXUAL WAC,” a tan coat draped over his shoulders, and a long plaid scarf that adds a distinctive touch to his outfit. His coat is adorned with multiple activist pins, including one that says "WTFAL."
Surrounding him, a diverse group of attendees listens intently, some capturing the moment with cameras. A woman in the background, dressed in a navy blue coat and gray beret, holds a camera, while another protester, clad in black with a gray knit beanie and mask, stands with arms crossed. The protest takes place against the backdrop of scaffolding and urban architecture, emphasizing the historic Stonewall National Monument in Greenwich Village, New York City.
The rally underscores the importance of trans inclusion in the broader LGBTQ+ movement, with Jay W. Walker leading the charge, embodying the activism that has defined his decades-long advocacy in the streets of NYC.
A powerful display of activism at the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument in New York City. The image focuses on a series of bold protest signs held high by demonstrators advocating for transgender rights and inclusivity. The most prominent sign in the foreground reads “WE ARE BRAVE” in large, white capital letters on a black background, reflecting the resilience and courage of the LGBTQ+ community. Next to it, a massive cutout letter "T" is visible, with the handwritten word “Back” on it—likely symbolizing the demand to bring the “T” (transgender) back into the broader LGBTQ+ movement.
A protester in an orange beanie with the word “Queer” on it raises their fist, adorned with silver rings, emphasizing defiance and solidarity. Below, another demonstrator wearing glasses and a black cap with a rainbow emblem looks on, their expression serious and engaged. In the background, additional signs are visible, including one that reads “DO NOT OBEY IN ADVANCE” in red, yellow, and white letters, reinforcing the theme of resistance. The clear blue sky and leafless trees frame the scene, situating this winter protest in the historic streets of Greenwich Village.
This demonstration highlights the ongoing fight for transgender rights and visibility, emphasizing the voices of those who refuse to be erased from the LGBTQ+ movement.
This impactful image from the No LGBQ Without T rally at the Stonewall National Monument on February 22, 2025, captures a bold statement of defiance and solidarity. A protester holds up a black and white sign that reads:
“WE WILL DEFEND
OUR LIFE
OUR LIBERATION
OUR PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS”
The sign, reminiscent of the Declaration of Independence, reinforces the fight for transgender and LGBTQ+ rights, emphasizing the movement’s core values of survival, freedom, and dignity.
In the foreground, a protester wearing an orange beanie with the word “Queer” on it raises their fist while holding the sign. Their hand, adorned with a delicate floral tattoo, grips the sign firmly. Another demonstrator, wearing a black beanie with a rainbow emblem and red glasses, looks up attentively. Behind them, additional signs amplify the message of resistance, including one that reads “DO NOT OBEY IN ADVANCE” in colorful, bold letters.
The trans pride flag is visible waving in the background, alongside urban architecture, street signs, and bare tree branches, situating the protest firmly in the historic streets of Greenwich Village, NYC. The determination of the demonstrators reflects the urgency of the cause, as they stand together against oppression and erasure.
A powerful moment from the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, where demonstrators stand in solidarity for transgender rights. In the foreground, a transgender pride flag with an added circle and cross symbol is being waved by a protester, signifying inclusivity and nonconformity to traditional gender norms. The flag's pink, blue, and white stripes contrast against the winter sunlight.
To the right, a prominent black sign with rainbow-colored text reads: “DO NOT OBEY IN ADVANCE”, a statement urging defiance against oppression. The diverse crowd behind the sign includes individuals wearing beanies, scarves, and sunglasses, dressed for the cold weather. Some protesters hold smaller trans pride flags, while others display additional signs with messages advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.
In the background, another sign reads: "There Are Queer And Trans Kids, Adults, Elders. The Future Is Ours." This message underscores the generational impact of trans activism and the movement's dedication to securing rights for all. The setting, surrounded by historic Greenwich Village architecture, amplifies the significance of the protest, held at the iconic Stonewall National Monument, a landmark of LGBTQ+ resistance.
On the right side of the frame, two white-painted human statues stand among the crowd, possibly part of an artistic display symbolizing the historical and ongoing struggle for queer and trans visibility. Their presence adds a thought-provoking element to the scene, blending activism with art.
A demonstrator at the No LGBQ Without T rally at the Stonewall National Monument on February 22, 2025, raises a sign with a witty political message. The sign reads:
“LET'S TAKE THE 'T' OUT OF TRUMP!”
The word "T" is stylized with trans pride flag colors, while the word "RUMP" is accompanied by an illustration of a peach with a small hammer, alluding to impeachment and removal. The protester holding the sign is smiling brightly, exuding energy and enthusiasm. They wear a trans pride flag beanie, round brown sunglasses, a black puffer jacket, and a cream-colored tote bag slung over their shoulder.
The background shows other attendees dressed in winter clothing, some wearing beanies and scarves. Behind the crowd, the Stonewall Inn, adorned with rainbow flags, is visible, reinforcing the historical significance of the location. The setting is framed by a black wrought-iron fence, and sunlight highlights the protester's face, capturing the moment of joy and defiance.
This image encapsulates the intersection of LGBTQ+ rights and political activism, using humor as a tool of resistance. The rally serves as a bold stand against transphobia and political policies that threaten transgender rights.
At the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, Angelica Christina (far left) and Denise Norris stand before the crowd, amplifying the movement’s call for transgender rights and visibility.
Denise Norris, wearing a black hoodie with the words "TRANSSEXUAL MENACE" in red and white, a pink beanie, and camouflage pants, raises her fist and shouts passionately. Beside her, Angelica Christina, in a leopard-print coat and glasses, smiles warmly, offering support and solidarity.
In the foreground, a protest sign reads “PUT THE BACK IN STONEWALL”, reinforcing the rally’s message of ensuring transgender people remain central in LGBTQ+ advocacy. Another protester holds up a large white "T" cutout, symbolizing trans inclusion. Additional signs include one stating "SCOTT BESSENT IS A NAZI", while trans pride flags wave in the crowd.
The backdrop features historic Greenwich Village brownstones and fire escapes, further grounding the protest at the Stonewall National Monument, a landmark of LGBTQ+ resistance. Protesters in winter clothing, some filming or holding signs, showcase the community’s diverse coalition rallying together for trans rights.
This rally serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality, with prominent activists like Denise Norris and Angelica Christina leading the charge.
At the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, Denise Norris, a longtime transgender activist, takes the stage to address the crowd. She stands confidently, speaking into a microphone, delivering a message of resilience and determination in the fight for trans rights.
Denise is wearing a black hoodie with “TRANSSEXUAL MENACE” in bold red and white lettering, camouflage pants, and a multicolored knit beanie. Her red hair frames her face as she speaks with passion and conviction.
In the foreground, a protester raises a large white "T" cutout with the words “PUT THE BACK IN STONEWALL”, symbolizing the demand for trans inclusivity within LGBTQ+ history and activism. Behind her, a black, red, and yellow striped flag is visible, alongside the backdrop of historic Greenwich Village brownstones and fire escapes, reinforcing the rally's deep connection to the legacy of Stonewall.
The crowd listens intently, some raising fists, others capturing the moment on their phones. This rally at Stonewall, a site of LGBTQ+ resistance, echoes the ongoing demand for transgender rights, with Denise Norris leading the charge for visibility and justice.
A sweeping view of the No LGBQ Without T rally at the Stonewall National Monument on February 22, 2025, captures a large, energized crowd standing in solidarity for transgender rights. Protesters of all ages and backgrounds fill the streets, holding signs with messages of defiance and inclusion. Many are dressed in winter hats, scarves, and sunglasses, bracing against the cold while remaining steadfast in their advocacy.
Several prominent signs in the crowd display powerful statements, including:
"FOR WORKERS' ACTION TO STOP REPRESSION! FREE OUR CLASS!"
"PRESSURING THE DEMOCRATS IS A DEAD END!"
"Read a Revolutionary Newspaper!"
"Protect Trans Kids & Trans Rights!"
At the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, Denise Norris, a pioneering transgender activist, stands on stage delivering a speech. Holding the microphone, she wears a black hoodie with “TRANSSEXUAL MENACE” in red and white, camouflage pants, and a multicolored knit beanie, her red hair framing her determined expression.
Beside her, a young activist draped in a trans pride flag stands with a serious yet composed demeanor, wrapped in a black winter coat with tan lining. The symbolic presence of both generations of activists highlights the rally’s theme of solidarity and intergenerational advocacy.
In the background, protesters wave trans pride flags and hold up signs, including one that reads “PROTECT TRANS KIDS”, reinforcing the urgency of the movement. Other demonstrators, dressed in black with red poppies pinned to their coats, clap and cheer in support. The historic Greenwich Village brownstones and fire escapes provide a fitting backdrop to this moment, grounding the protest in the legacy of the Stonewall Riots.
This image captures the continuity of activism, with experienced voices like Denise Norris inspiring the next generation to carry the fight for transgender rights forward.
At the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, two young activists take center stage, standing side by side at the microphone to address the crowd. One of them is wrapped in a trans pride flag, symbolizing resilience and solidarity, while the other wears a black winter coat with a fur-lined hood. Their expressions show a mix of determination and courage as they speak to the assembled demonstrators.
To their right, Denise Norris, a longtime transgender activist, leans in with encouragement. She is dressed in a black hoodie with "TRANSSEXUAL MENACE" in red and white, camouflage pants, and a multicolored knit beanie, emphasizing her role in mentoring and uplifting the next generation of trans activists.
In the background, rainbow and trans pride flags wave while protesters hold up various signs advocating for trans rights, including a partially visible sign reading “PROTECT” behind the stage. The setting, framed by the historic brownstone buildings and wrought-iron fences of Greenwich Village, reinforces the rally’s deep ties to the Stonewall legacy. Among the audience, attendees in black coats with red poppies pinned to their lapels listen intently, reflecting the solidarity of the moment.
This image captures a pivotal moment of intergenerational activism, where experienced leaders like Denise Norris pass the microphone to young voices, ensuring that the fight for trans rights continues for years to come.
At the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, Denise Norris stands on stage applauding two young activists who have stepped up to speak. The young protester on the right wears a black “Transsexual Menace” t-shirt and is draped in a trans pride flag, smiling with confidence while holding the microphone. The other youth, standing to their left, is dressed in a black winter coat with a fur-lined hood and shares a determined expression.
Denise, a veteran transgender activist, is clad in a black hoodie, camouflage pants, and a multicolored knit beanie, embodying the spirit of intergenerational advocacy as she shows her support for the next wave of activists.
In the background, protesters wave trans and rainbow pride flags, while others hold signs, including one that reads “PROTECT TRANS KIDS” and another that says “CRASH THE CIS-TEM”, a play on words advocating for dismantling systemic oppression. The historic brick buildings and fire escapes of Greenwich Village frame the scene, grounding the protest in its deep connection to LGBTQ+ history and the Stonewall legacy.
The transgender pride flag, modified with an intersex symbol (circle with a cross on top), billows in the wind at the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument. The flag’s blue, pink, and white stripes catch the sunlight, creating a striking visual that symbolizes the unity and intersectionality of the LGBTQ+ movement.
A diverse crowd of demonstrators stands in the background, some wearing winter hats, scarves, and sunglasses as they listen intently and hold up protest signs. One notable participant in the foreground wears an orange beanie with "queer" written on it, reinforcing the bold presence of queer activism at the event. Another protester in a pink beanie and black coat stands close by, engaged in the moment.
The sunlight filters through the trees, casting dramatic highlights on the faces of the activists, as the protest unfolds against the backdrop of Greenwich Village's historic architecture and street lamps. This moment captures the defiant spirit of the rally, where trans and queer voices demand inclusion, visibility, and justice.
At the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, New York State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal takes the stage, holding up a bold red-outlined "T" in solidarity with transgender rights. Speaking into a microphone, he delivers a passionate speech advocating for trans inclusion and protection, standing before a crowd gathered at this historic LGBTQ+ landmark.
Dressed in a dark blue puffer coat over a button-down shirt and olive-green pants, Hoylman-Sigal presents a firm and resolute presence, emphasizing the urgency of the cause. In the foreground, a protester wearing a red and blue plaid New York Giants beanie listens attentively. Behind him, rainbow and transgender pride flags wave in the crisp winter air, reinforcing the message of LGBTQ+ unity and resilience.
Protest signs in the background echo the rally’s mission, with visible slogans such as "CRASH THE CIS-TEM" and "INCLUSION" held high among the demonstrators. The historic brick buildings and wrought-iron fences of Greenwich Village provide a fitting setting for this moment, tying the event to the ongoing fight for equality that began at Stonewall.
Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal’s presence at the rally underscores the importance of legislative support for trans rights, bridging the gap between activism and policy to ensure that transgender individuals receive the recognition and protection they deserve.
At the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, a protester with round glasses and curly brown hair smiles while holding up a handwritten cardboard sign that reads:
“YOU WILL NEVER Erase Trans People from HERSTORY!”
The sign’s message is a bold assertion that transgender people have always been a part of history and will not be erased from the ongoing fight for equality. The word “HERSTORY” is emphasized to highlight the importance of trans and feminist narratives.
The protester is dressed in a dark corduroy jacket, and their expression conveys both warmth and determination. Behind them, other demonstrators can be seen, including a person in a brown coat with a blue backpack and another in a black puffer jacket with blonde hair partially visible on the right side of the frame. The setting is bustling with activists, reinforcing the collective energy of the rally.
This image encapsulates the spirit of resilience and defiance present at the protest, where individuals stand together to defend trans inclusion and visibility within LGBTQ+ history.
At the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, a determined protester stands holding a handwritten sign that reads:
“TRUMP JUST PURGED MILITARY TOP BRASS! WHAT'S NEXT??”
The sign’s urgent message, written in bold letters with an arrow pointing forward, reflects deep political concern over authoritarian actions and the future of marginalized communities. The protester wears a blue headscarf, dark sunglasses, a black jacket, and a multicolored scarf around their neck, emphasizing their serious and steadfast demeanor. In their left hand, they firmly hold a trans pride flag, symbolizing resistance and solidarity with transgender rights.
In the background, additional demonstrators are visible, holding signs, including one that reads “TRANS LIBERATION NOW!” in bold black and pink lettering. Other protesters are seen wearing winter coats, beanies, and sunglasses, reflecting the cold February weather. A storefront sign reading “EDG DESIGN + RESTORE” is also visible in the upper right, adding an urban backdrop to the scene.
This image captures the intersection of trans rights and broader political activism, illustrating how LGBTQ+ advocates are deeply engaged in resisting authoritarianism and ensuring the protection of their communities.
At the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, a smiling protester stands confidently, holding a handmade sign that reads:
“TRANSGENDER LOVE 4EVER”
The sign is decorated with bold, multicolored lettering in shades of pink, blue, and green, resembling the colors of the trans pride flag. The protester wears a black coat and has a trans pride armband on their left sleeve, featuring blue, pink, and white stripes, along with a magenta band. They also carry a black leather bag over their shoulder, adding to their practical yet determined look. Their expression is one of quiet pride and optimism as they participate in the demonstration.
In the background, other attendees, some wearing winter coats, scarves, and beanies, engage in the protest. A blue sign with red lettering reading "HISTORY BE ERASED" is visible above the protester’s head, further emphasizing the rally’s message against trans erasure. The setting, featuring city streets, graffiti-covered walls, and urban buildings, places this demonstration firmly within the activist history of Greenwich Village and the Stonewall National Monument.
This image captures a moment of joy, resilience, and unwavering support for trans rights, reinforcing the message that love and inclusion are at the heart of the movement.
A determined protester stands at the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, holding a trans pride flag-themed sign that reads:
"HISTORY CAN'T BE ERASED"
Dressed in a black puffer jacket, black mask, and black t-shirt, the protester grips the wooden sign firmly while standing behind a metal barricade, symbolizing both resilience and defiance against oppression. Their wavy, two-toned blonde and black hair frames their glasses-covered eyes, conveying a quiet yet powerful presence.
In the background, a diverse group of demonstrators is visible. A person with bright blue hair, a septum piercing, and a teal plaid coat smiles warmly, adding a contrast to the serious tone of the main subject. Further back, attendees in winter coats, hats, and scarves move through the protest scene, engaging in the rally. The graffiti-covered brick buildings of Greenwich Village, along with urban signage such as a "No Except Bikes" sign, firmly place this moment in the historic neighborhood where LGBTQ+ activism has long thrived.
This image captures a powerful message of resistance, as protesters make it clear that trans and queer history will not be erased, no matter the political climate.
At the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, the Stonewall National Monument sign, maintained by the U.S. Department of the Interior National Park Service, has been decorated with trans pride flag stickers and activist messages. Protesters have placed various stickers and handwritten notes over the sign, reinforcing the rally’s demand for trans visibility and inclusion in LGBTQ+ history.
Among the additions are multiple small trans pride flags, a sticker that reads “YOUR TRANSNESS IS NATURAL”, and another note partially covering the National Park Service emblem. The word "MONUMENT" appears scratched or altered, symbolizing the fight against historical erasure. A QR code sticker is also attached, possibly linking to additional activist resources.
The sign is surrounded by a black wrought-iron fence, and in the background, protesters and city elements, such as a yellow taxi and urban storefronts, are visible, firmly placing the demonstration within the historic streets of Greenwich Village, NYC.
This image serves as a powerful visual statement, showing how trans activists are reclaiming spaces to ensure their presence in LGBTQ+ history is acknowledged and protected.
At the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, an activist dressed in a vibrant rainbow-colored puffer jacket, a red floral skirt, and fuzzy rainbow leg warmers reaches up to attach materials to the park’s fence. They hang a pink backpack and other personal items, creating a symbolic offering at the site of LGBTQ+ resistance.
The fence is adorned with various posters and flyers, including one that reads “WE ARE NOT GOING ANYWHERE” and another that promotes “TRANSSEXUAL MENACE – Join the Reass”, reinforcing the rally’s defiant and urgent tone. A table filled with informational pamphlets, books, and other activist literature is set up in the foreground, emphasizing the movement’s educational efforts.
To the right, a woman in a black winter coat with a fur-lined hood looks off into the distance, while other attendees engage with the materials posted along the fence. The scene is set against the backdrop of historic brick buildings and a wrought-iron fence, grounding the protest in the activism-rich streets of Greenwich Village.
This moment captures the tangible presence of community-driven advocacy, as demonstrators ensure that trans voices and history remain visible at this landmark of LGBTQ+ liberation.
At the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, a protester holds up a handwritten cardboard sign that reads:
“THE PROBLEM IS CAPITALISM... NOT TRANS PEOPLE OR IMMIGRANTS”
The message directly challenges narratives that scapegoat marginalized communities, instead pointing to systemic economic issues as the root cause of oppression. The protester, seen from behind, is wearing a black knit beanie with a “66 North” logo and a jacket with fur trim, blending into a crowd of demonstrators standing in solidarity.
To the left, another sign with a trans pride flag and the words “We aren’t” written in colorful lettering is partially visible, adding a hopeful message. A person wearing a vibrant, patterned sweater featuring unicorns and clouds stands nearby, contributing to the atmosphere of colorful self-expression. In the background, a protester in a multicolored knit beanie and winter coat listens attentively, reinforcing the intersections of LGBTQ+ rights and economic justice present at the event.
At the No LGBQ Without T rally on February 22, 2025, at the Stonewall National Monument, a large hand-painted banner is prominently displayed, reading:
“AMERICA, SERIOUSLY? A DICTATOR?”
The banner, written in blue, red, and orange spray paint, reflects a deep concern about the state of democracy in the U.S., questioning authoritarian shifts in government. A protester wearing a green and purple face mask, a white long-sleeve shirt, and a bright red skirt holds the flag high, their arm outstretched in a defiant stance.
Surrounding them, a diverse crowd of demonstrators, dressed in winter coats, hats, and scarves, engage in conversation and hold additional signs, reinforcing the intersection of transgender rights, democracy, and resistance. Among the protesters, one individual in a pink wig and a burgundy coat stands out, adding a vibrant presence to the scene.
In the background, the historic Greenwich Village streets, scaffolding, and leafless trees frame the protest, highlighting the rally’s connection to Stonewall’s legacy of activism. The presence of trans pride flags, rainbow banners, and other political signs underscores the urgency of the movement.
This image encapsulates a moment of political outcry, where LGBTQ+ activists and allies stand against rising threats to democracy while demanding justice for transgender individuals.
