Laverne Cox, the acclaimed actress known for her role in “Orange Is the New Black,” is set to unveil her memoir, “Transcendent,” which will be released on June 9. In this candid narrative, she revisits harrowing experiences from her childhood, including incidents of sexual assault and a suicide attempt, shedding light on her journey toward resilience and self-acceptance.
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In an interview with PEOPLE, Cox reflects on the profound emotions that emerged while penning her memoir. “Writing this book brought back all the traumatic, awful shaming from my childhood,” she revealed. Despite the painful memories, she also discovered a tenacious spirit within herself. “There was also a very resilient child,” she emphasised, underlining her journey from vulnerability to strength.
Cox’s childhood was marked by significant turmoil, beginning when she was just 13 years old. She recounts a traumatic experience in which she was sexually abused by two older boys in a church bathroom. This led to feelings of shame that lingered well into her adult life. She describes shame as “the intensely painful feeling that you’re unworthy of connection or belonging.” In her memoir, she candidly details how these early experiences made her believe that revealing her past would strip her of the love she so desperately craved.
At the tender age of 11, overwhelmed by the weight of her circumstances, Cox attempted suicide by taking a large quantity of her mother’s medication. Fortunately, she survived, waking up the following day feeling ill but choosing to keep her ordeal to herself. Reflecting on her survival, Cox credits two vital components: dance and education. “Dancing and school kept me alive,” she notes. Her mother’s decision to encourage her in dance classes—despite a teacher’s negative assertions—and to prioritise her education played a crucial role in fostering her resilience.
Although reliving her painful past was challenging, Cox managed to derive valuable insights about herself throughout the writing process. “Even through all the terrible things people may experience in life, there is something inside all of us—resilience. I always had this feeling that I was put here for something bigger,” she said. This new understanding has allowed her to reshape her narrative and embrace her identity.
As she continues to navigate feelings of unworthiness, Cox has developed strategies for grounding herself in the present. “That is 8-year-old Laverne,” she expresses, acknowledging how past experiences can still overshadow her current self. However, through her introspection, she has learned to let go of those burdens, affirming her right to define herself and acknowledging her worthiness of love and connection.
Today, Cox celebrates her identity and the journey she has undertaken to reach this point. “I love myself, and everything that I’ve gone through has made me who I am today,” she states emphatically. Her memoir serves not only as a testament to her personal growth but also as an encouragement to others still grappling with feelings of inadequacy.
“Transcendent” promises to resonate with readers by presenting a narrative infused with pain, healing, and ultimately triumph. It highlights the importance of self-acceptance and the unwavering spirit that can emerge from adversity. Preorders for the memoir are available at various retailers, ahead of its release on June 9.
Cox’s story stands as a powerful reminder of the capacity for resilience, showcasing how one can rise above their past and redefine their worth. Her experiences serve as an inspiration, encouraging others to seek healing and embrace their unique journeys towards self-discovery and acceptance.