Philly Trans Activist Jaci Adams Died Today

Philly Black Gay Pride’s (PBGP) D’Ontace Keyes just informed me that Philly trans activist Jaci Adams passed away today at 3:55 p.m. I don’t have a lot of information right now, but Adams had been battling cancer. The last time I saw her, at last year’s Mazzoni Elixr fundraiser (video below), she told the crowd that her cancer had developed to stage four. I know she has been in the care of Keystone Hospice for several weeks.

PBGP Royal Court posted this message on its Facebook wall:

“It is with a heavy heart that I have to inform the royal court of the passing of its honorary member Jaci Adams at approximately 3:55 p.m. … My big sis has gone on to represent in a better place.”

I was only fortunate enough to interact with Ms. Adams on a few occasions, but was always moved by her unshakeable spirit. She was a force to be reckoned with, and a true icon in our community. She will be missed.

Stay tuned to G Philly for updates. In the meantime, check out the video below of Adams accepting the Activist Leader Award at last year’s Elixr event, and read this great interview she did in April with Philadelphia Gay News.