Sex In The Black Renaissance: FOR THE DOLL$
Leaving The Barbie Box for The Real World
Unveiling the Legend: Asia Snowden, The Doll
In the heart of New York City's vibrant LGBTQ+ community, amidst the glittering lights and bustling streets, there is a legend named Asia Snowden, affectionately known as "The Doll''. She is a striking Black trans woman who embodies beauty and sex appeal that radiates from within, even in the face of uncertainty and harm inflicted upon Black trans women in America.
According to the National Center for Transgender Equality in 2021, Black transgender individuals face alarming rates of discrimination, violence, and economic hardship. The report highlighted that 19% of Black transgender people had experienced homelessness at some point in their lives, and nearly one-third had been living in poverty, compared to 9% of the general population. In the face of these challenges, Asia's story stands as a testament to resilience.
Asia is an open book, a quiet storm of a person who has weathered the storms of life with grace and resilience. She hails from Long Island, New York, she moved to NYC at the tender age of 15, seeking to find herself and escape the shadows of depression that haunted her youth. Her journey reflects the challenges many transgender individuals face, including issues related to mental health.
"I knew the life I lived was what I wanted," she often said, her voice dripping with self-assuredness. "I needed to know who I was as a person," she added.
Asia's journey resonates with the words of Laverne Cox, a prominent transgender Activist and Actress, who stated, "It is revolutionary for any trans person to choose to be seen and visible in a world that tells us we should not exist." Asia has chosen to be visible, defying societal norms that pushes transgender individuals into the shadows.
As a Ballroom Legend, creativity flows through her veins as she embraces it with open arms. Asia has a burning desire to experience every facet of life, all while telling people her story. Her journey has taken her from a tumultuous past to a better present, and she aims to inspire others through her compelling narrative.
"Everything may not be perfect in the way you want it, but it's perfect for you," Asia proclaims, reminding everyone that beauty comes from adversity. Her words echo the sentiment of Janet Mock, a renowned transgender Writer and Television Producer. She noted, "I believe that telling our stories, first to ourselves and then to one another and the world, is a revolutionary act."
Reflecting on her own life, Asia stated , "I would tell my 6-year-old self to slow down, be patient, be kind, put your helmet on, and love more." Her experiences had shaped her, teaching her the importance of resilience and self-love.
Asia draws inspiration from an eclectic mix of iconic women — Betty Page, Beyoncé, Marilyn Monroe, Aaliyah, and her mother — her unique hero. Her mother's battle with self-confidence inspired Asia to share her own story.
"People think their story is not good enough, and it is," she emphasized. Asia's conviction reflects the sentiment of Writer and Activist Audre Lorde. She said"Your silence will not protect you." Asia refuses to be silent, choosing to amplify her voice and experiences instead.
For Asia, the most beautiful part of life is growth, and she is now in her "soft girl era," pouring love and attention into herself. She delves into the small things and reveals the details, all while living by the mantra "Live, Love, Laugh."
She encourages everyone she meets to live in the present, survive the past, but never forget the preciousness of the moment. Her philosophy mirrors the findings of a study published in the International Journal of Transgender Health, which highlighted the positive effects of self-acceptance and mindfulness on the well-being of transgender individuals.
As The Doll, Asia Snowden defies societal norms and expectations, standing tall and proud as a beacon of beauty, resilience, and self-acceptance for the world to see. Her story is a testament to the enduring spirit of Black transwomen, their strength, and their unwavering determination to shine brightly, no matter the challenges they faced.
In a world that often fails to understand and appreciate unfamiliar voices, Asia's story serves as a reminder that beauty and self-acceptance can emerge from adversity, and that every individual's story is worth telling and celebrating. Asia Snowden, The Doll, has an indelible mark on the world, a legacy of strength, beauty, and unapologetic authenticity for generations to come. As we celebrate Asia's journey, let us also remember the statistics and the words of activists and scholars, advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate world for transgender individuals everywhere.
Creative Director: Melquan Ganzy
Photographer: Kendall Bessent
Writer: Hope Giselle
Stylist: Al-Fuquan Green
Make-Up Artist: Sadé-Amour Mirabal
Lighting: Joseph Cail
Featured Brands: Pipenco and L'Enchanteur