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Lucy Hicks Anderson
LGBTQIA+ SPOTLIGHT
Lucy Hicks Anderson (1886 - 1954)
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In the LGBTQIA+ spotlight, we highlight a person, dead or alive, and their achievements and work. These leaders, artists, space-makers, etc. have been here and been doing the work. The least we can do is learn from them and honor the plights they have taken.
LUCY HICKS ANDERSON
Lucy Hicks Anderson isn’t someone we hear about in history books (we all know why) but her story is important. Lucy Hicks Anderson was the first transwoman [first Black transwoman, as well] to defend her identity and right of marriage equality in court.
She was well-adored as a nanny and cook– so much so there would be competitions for her time. With the money she made, she started to run her own speakeasy and brothel. Even when she was arrested with charges of selling liquor (this was the Prohibition era), she barely faced charges due to her connections and popularly.
When a venereal disease was traced back to Lucy’s brothel and with the laws against sex workers, everyone was subject to a medical evaluation – even Lucy. The doctor had stated that Lucy was not a woman. Lucy and her husband were charged with perjury and impersonation. In the courts, they mis-gendered her and nullified her marriage because it was against the law (under the belief that Lucy was not a woman). This sparked Lucy’s famous quote, “I defy any doctor in the world to prove that I am not a woman. I have lived, dressed, acted just what I am, a woman”. Even though she stood up for herself, the jury convicted Lucy and her husband and they both served 10 years probation. Lucy, charged with impersonation, was not allowed to wear women’s clothing but men’s instead. She relocated with her husband and lived quietly until her death.
Her strength and fight to defending her identity and womanhood hasn’t gone unnoticed as many other trans folks fight for their own rights and identity the same way. Thank you Lucy, for your example of bravery.
