Raquel Willis Honored at TIME's Women of the Year Gala for Pioneering Advocacy
On February 27, 2025, in Los Angeles, LGBTQ+ activist and author Raquel Willis was celebrated at TIME's Women of the Year Gala for her unwavering commitment to gender justice and trans rights. As a former executive editor of Out magazine, Willis has been a prominent voice in intersectional feminism and LGBTQ+ inclusion.
A Trailblazer in Advocacy
Willis co-founded the Gender Liberation Movement (GLM) in 2023, an organization dedicated to highlighting the intrinsic link between gender-affirming care and reproductive rights. Under her leadership, GLM orchestrated the inaugural Gender Liberation March in Washington, D.C., protesting against discriminatory legislation and advocating for bodily autonomy. The movement also staged a notable bathroom sit-in at the U.S. Capitol, challenging laws restricting restroom access for transgender individuals.
Gala Highlights
At the gala, Willis exuded old-school Hollywood glamour, wearing a Solace London strapless two-piece pink and black satin-twill dress, complemented by Amina Muaddi crystal heels and Alexis Bittar gold and crystal jewelry. She described her look as "powerful, classy, delicate," reflecting her dynamic approach to fashion and activism.
In her acceptance speech, Willis emphasized the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities, particularly in light of legislative rollbacks targeting LGBTQ+ rights. She called for sustained activism and solidarity, urging attendees to remain vigilant and proactive in the fight for equality.
Continued Commitment
Willis views this recognition as a testament to the resilience and contributions of the trans community. She remains dedicated to advancing her advocacy through writing, community-building, and fostering inclusive spaces that champion the rights of all individuals, regardless of gender identity.
