Laverne Cox, the celebrated Emmy-winning actress and activist, has voiced her concerns regarding the adverse effects of the current US administration on her career and financial situation. In a recent interview with *Attitude*, Cox revealed that her income has taken a significant hit due to the government’s stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes, stating, “I’ve lost so much money because of this administration, the past year.”
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Cox, who launched her new book, *Transcendent*, on June 9, elaborated further on how the political climate has been unfavourable for many within the transgender community. While she has managed to secure a few acting roles and branding opportunities, she noted that the revenue from college speaking engagements had sharply declined. “I never thought college speaking gigs would dry up,” she remarked.
The actress, now 54, underscored the administration’s punitive attitude towards DEI and gender ideology. She pointed out that corporate entities are now cautious, choosing to distance themselves from any initiatives that could be perceived as supportive of diversity efforts. Notably, the Trump administration has implemented executive orders that restrict DEI programmes and limit formal recognition of diverse gender identities, further intensifying the challenges faced by many individuals in the LGBTQ+ community.
Reflecting on her financial struggles, Cox revealed that she has had to rely on her savings and retirement funds over the past year. “The blessing is that I finally have the privilege to have a retirement fund to dip into, but you don’t really want to do that,” she explained, emphasising the precariousness of her situation.
Cox admitted that the downturn in her opportunities made her hesitant to speak out on issues affecting her community. “Even leading up to the 2024 election, I was like, ‘Should I not be so vocal?’” she expressed. This self-censorship, however, was challenged by a realisation: “When I have the audacity to speak the truth the way I have now, I feel like myself. I feel empowered.”
In an article published in *The Guardian*, Cox startlingly revealed that her income has plummeted by 90%, citing the end of several hosting contracts, reduced speaking engagements, and limited opportunities in academia. She highlighted the implications of the current political regime, which has openly threatened to defund institutions that advocate for gender ideology and DEI.
The stark reality imposed by this political climate has not only affected Cox but also raises concerns for countless others less privileged within the trans community. “I think the important thing to note is that if Laverne Cox’s income has gone down significantly, what about all the other trans people who are not as privileged and as blessed as I am?” she posed, bringing attention to the broader impact of systemic discrimination on marginalised groups.
In a conversation with *PEOPLE*, Cox spoke about the resilience she discovered while writing *Transcendent*, reflecting on her journey and the innate worth she has come to recognise in herself. “I love myself, and everything that I’ve gone through has made me who I am today,” she asserted, conveying a message of empowerment amid adversity.
*Transcendent*, now available in bookstores, encapsulates Cox’s experiences and her advocacy work, aiming to illuminate the challenges faced by the transgender community while celebrating individual strength and resilience. As she continues to navigate the complexities of her career in a changing political landscape, Cox stands as a testament to the power of speaking one’s truth despite adversity.