What was Marsha P. Johnson’s 80th birthday today? Supporters We spoke with acclaimed artist, writer and activist Tulmarin to discuss her latest book on Johnson and the meaning of her legacy for the movement today.
Marie Adelina: congratulations One day in June! Tell readers a little more about the book.
Turmarin: June 1st is a celebration! It is a story about all the magic that can happen when we raise the volume of our lives and celebrate ourselves with real joy and credibility. The story begins at RIIS Beach, my favorite place in New York City, and continues to gather with Marsha and many LGBTQIA individuals. It’s also a story about community, and how to build a fun and loving community is one of the greatest gifts we can offer to each other.
Marie Adelina: This book is told through the eyes of an old friend. Was there any particular people or people you spoke to when researching for this book?
Turmarin: I was very fortunate to be able to grow deeply into Marsha’s loved ones and community during the course of writing this book. Her friends and her family were incredibly generous with their time, their stories, and even great archival material like newsletters and photos. The old friend featured in this book is a fusion of all the amazing people who illuminated the strange signs of life that Marsha is surrounded by.
Marie Adelina: Marsha P. Johnson – or St. Marsha is truly an icon of the movement. How does this book amplify this story for current and future generations?
Turmarin: Marsha may be reduced from time to time due to her icon status, but this makes sense. But those who know her role in Nightlife are as a muse of someone like Andy Warhol, and as a lauded performance artist who traveled internationally. I wanted to capture some of Marsha’s “bigness” in this book so that our collective memories could hold her more honestly and completely.
Marie-Adélina: Are there any other upcoming projects that you’re excited about?
Turmarin: I love the writing process and I continue to be interested in another book of my future, especially young people facing so many challenges in my current environment. I am honored to see how books bring people together and create community and shared experiences through geography, life experiences and more.
Marie-Adélina: What are the most important lessons we can learn from the influence of Marsha P. Johnson when transbodies are targeted through anti-trans methods?
Turmarin: Marsha made it fun. Marsha made it a joy. Marsha made it lively, playful and fun. As we see now, in moments where there are so many urgent and stressful tasks, it is easy to forget that beauty, joy and connection are still at the heart of our work. I hope I can call Marsha and remind her how to do it all. And true joy and joy in the beauty surrounding us, regardless of the circumstances.
Marie Adelina: This month was Marsha P. Johnson’s 80th birthday. How do you celebrate her life and heritage?
Tour Marine: Some of the beauty of these two books, one for children and the other for adults. It’s a dream to see her legacy in the library, in the airport, in the bookshelves of friends, and in the classroom. I feel it is very right to praise her vast self. Celebrating the fulfillment of her life, which is merely expanding, is an event all year round.
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Source: Advocate.com – www.advocate.com
