
Laverne with you-know-who at an LGBT fundraiser for Hillary Clinton in NYC
TINA TURNER
rock ‘n roll legend, born 1939
“The pain, pleasure, and agony of all she’s been through is in her voice. Her story is the story of so many black women who’ve endured abuse and come out the other side in such a brilliant, beautiful way.“
TRACEY AFRICA
trailblazing model, born 1951
“She was a black trans woman who modeled in the ’70s, and had cosmetics deals and a hair contract with Clairol — it was a big deal. People think, ‘Oh, this trans revolution is just starting,’ but we’ve been around for a very long time. It’s important to know that there’s been a path blazed for me.“
BEYONCÉ
Queen B, born 1981
“Beyoncé represents excellence. Her work ethic is like nobody else I’ve ever seen. There were so many moments when I was shooting Rocky Horror, and I’d be exhausted. My body would be hurting, and I’d be like, ‘Beyoncé. Beyoncé does this.’ You have to just put in the work.“
(Photos, Ruven Afanador; via Cosmopolitan)