November 17, 2017

M·A·C and Refinery29 Launch Digital Series, Trans 102

READ TIME: 2 MIN.

This week is National Trans Awareness Week, ending with Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20. Currently, trans women are 49 times more likely to contract HIV than the average person, and at the most dangerous intersection are trans women of color. M�A�C and Refinery29 have taken the stance that frank and accessible dialogue and education will make a major impact.

In partnership with MAC Cosmetics, Refinery29 teamed up with writer and trans activist Jen Richards to present "Trans 102" -- a series aimed at amplifying their courageous stories and educating viewers on the issues that continue to threaten our movement towards a more inclusive, equal world.

From Laverne Cox to Caitlyn Jenner, trans voices are leading today's fight for LGBTQ visibility. Though the past few years have marked incredible progress, we know we've still got a long way to go before the trans community feels safe and accepted in schools, hospitals, and bathrooms across the nation.

"Trans102" uses both notable and everyday members of the trans community from across the country to dispel rumors and common misconceptions about trans people.

  • Starting November 13, the PSA-style shorts will appear online and across social media as part of Refinery29's Gender Nation -- a week-long in depth exploration of gender identity and gender fluidity through original stories, photos and videos.

  • The series was produced in conjunction with M�A�C Cosmetics $1.5 million commitment to programs that focus on access to health care, civil and human rights, economic empowerment and job readiness for the transgender community.

  • "Trans102" features a variety of trans people from everyday folks, activists, and familiar faces including "Transparent"'s Trace Lysette, Zackary Drucker and Our Lady J; it was created by notable "Transparent" & "This Is Us" director, Silas Howard and actress/activist, Jen Richards

  • Since 1994, M�A�C has raised over $467 million in support of the LGBT community and those living with HIV/AIDS

  • The first installment of the series received over 5 million views

    For more information and to watch all the videos, look below or visit http://www.refinery29.com/transgender-health-care-rights

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