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Laverne Cox
‘Orange is the New Black’ star in Ottawa
by Delta Reuben
From the moment she walked onto the stage, the energy in the room was electrified. On March 25th, Laverne Cox, the American actress known for her performance in the critically acclaimed Netflix show ‘Orange is the New Black’, was gracious enough to extend her tour to the Ottawa Bronson Centre. Cox, an African American trans-woman, had been travelling across Canada speaking at universities and community centres about her personal life journey. The event called “Ain’t I A Woman: My Journey to Womanhood” was organized by the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa and was open to students and community members alike who were eager to hear Cox’s perspective on experiencing racism, transphobia and misogyny and the intersectionality between these concepts. Laverne Cox’s talk was inspirational and she received multiple standing ovations. She said “If we can find something in the world that we are truly passionate about, it can be lifesaving” in reference to how dance became an artistic outlet for her as a young child. Laverne Cox was likable, funny, and personable which made it easy to be warmly welcomed by the Ottawa Community.
About the writer
Delta Reuben is a student at the University of Ottawa who is currently studying Conflict Studies and Human Rights with a minor in Public Administration. Her many interest include photography, travelling, live music concerts and meeting new people! She lifeguards and teaches swimming lessons with the city and enjoys teaching kids. She has lived in Canada all her life and considers it her home. However, since she is of Zambian descent she would love to live there permanently someday.