Today we’d like to introduce you to Lilianna-Angel Reyes.
Hi Lilianna-Angel, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I transitioned at 17 years old. During a time when there were not many local BIPOC trans people in careers. After college, I took a job at Planned Parenthood doing education and advocacy outreach. Navigating work in any sector as a Brown trans woman was very difficult. I was often the only person of my identity in many workspaces. However, this gave me a resiliency of who I am today.
In 2026, I have been ED of the largest LGBTQ+ community Center in Michigan, ED of a transwoman of color org in Detroit, Received a Spirit of Detroit Award, worked on a transwoman of color documentary that was GLAAD awarded.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
NO!
I have experienced racism and transphobia, sometimes both at the same time. I have been tone-policed and assumed that I could not lead an organization. I have a Master’s degree in public administration from the University of Michigan school system since 2011, and I have been overlooked from careers due to my identity. I have to work thrice as hard and often have no outlet, as I am one of few transwomen of color in Michigan who has a high professional notoriety.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an expert in LGBTQ+ BIPOC public health matters. I have created research to better understand transwomen of color and accessibility to resources. I currently am the Health Equity and Outreach Director at the Ruth Ellis Center. This allows me to create health programming and wrap around resource for houseless LGBTQ+ communities of color.
I have worked with most state officials to help make the gender change documentation more accessible to trans and gnc folks. My focus has always been both the community and the institutions they navigate through. My work has allowed hundred of tens women get access to gender affirming care, name change and gender marker change process, including working directly with insurance companies to better understand LGBTQ+M health issues.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
All books from bell hooks, Angela Davis, Patricia Hill Collins!
