Check Out Toni Newman’s Story December 27, 2024 – Posted in: News, Press

Today we’d like to introduce you to Toni Newman

Hi Toni, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Toni Newman’s bestselling memoir I Rise–The Transformation of Toni Newman tells her story of living authentically. This memoir offers an unflinching look at Toni’s 25-year transition journey, a process fraught with challenges yet marked by an unwavering commitment to living authentically. Born into a strict Christian family and grappling with the feeling of being “a different bird born in the wrong body” from a young age.

“I Rise,” inspired by Maya Angelou’s iconic poem, extends beyond Toni’s story to touch on broader themes of acceptance and diversity. Her memoir has been recognized, including nominations for the Lambda Literary Awards and honors from Wake Forest University. Beyond the printed page, Toni’s role as the Coalition for Justice and Equality Across Movements Director at NMAC in Washington DC, Chair of the Board of Directors for Transcanwork, and the Membership Chair for the California Black Leadership Council, a broader dialogue on transgender rights and acceptance. Toni is also a new board member at the Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board, nominated by LA County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath.

Toni and her partner of 20 years, Alton Willoughby, with British Director Keith Holland, are currently working on a feature film titled “Heart of a Woman” based on her memoir, which aims to bring her story to a wider audience.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
For the last 30 years, Toni has fought for acceptance of being her authentic self. The journey has been tremendously hard at times but worth every battle and obstacle.

Toni will continue to fight for all people regardless of race, sex, and gender.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Toni is a Crusader for Health Equity and Justice for All, and “True leadership lies in uniting diverse voices to challenge inequality, ensuring justice and health are rights, not privileges.” Toni Newman’s professional journey is a mosaic of leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to marginalized communities. At the helm of the Coalition for Justice and Equality Across Movements for NMAC, Toni orchestrates efforts to dismantle systemic barriers, creating a more equitable world where everyone can thrive. Her role extends beyond mere administration; it’s about crafting a vision for justice that bridges gaps across movements, cultures, and identities. Previously, as the Interim Chief Executive Officer of the Black AIDS Institute and the Interim President for LYRIC, Toni tackled the HIV/AIDS crisis head-on, championing programs that brought hope and vital resources to those most affected. Her leadership illuminated the intersectionality of health, race, and sexuality, pushing for inclusive solutions that address the root causes of inequality.

As Director of the Center for Justice and Equality Across Movements, Toni Newman plays a pivotal role in steering NMAC’s efforts to address the multifaceted challenges facing the HIV/AIDS community. Her leadership is instrumental in orchestrating a cross-movement coalition aimed at educating the public on the legal and political threats that jeopardize the civil and human rights of marginalized populations. Toni’s vision encompasses a collaborative fight against the forces that threaten the very fabric of inclusivity and equality, with a keen focus on amplifying HIV/AIDS leadership within communities of color, which are disproportionately impacted by the epidemic.

Under her guidance, the Coalition is committed to countering the rising tide of hostility towards vulnerable groups, advocating for a society where the rights, health, well-being, and safety of all individuals are safeguarded by comprehensive public policies and legal protections. Toni champions the cause of fostering an open, inclusive, and multicultural society where access to essential health services is not a privilege but a right for everyone. By leveraging cutting-edge communication strategies and community mobilization efforts, Toni ensures that the Center remains at the forefront of thought leadership within the HIV/AIDS sector. Her work is dedicated to driving NMAC’s mission forward, ensuring that the organization continues to be a beacon of hope and change in the relentless fight for justice and equality across all movements.

 

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Through her work with TransCanWork as Chair of the Board. Newman has been a tireless advocate for creating inclusive work environments that not only welcome but also celebrate transgender and non-binary individuals. Her leadership underscores a crucial message: inclusivity in the workplace is not merely about opportunities; it’s about acknowledging and valuing the diverse experiences and perspectives that individuals bring to the table. This commitment to empowerment and inclusivity is a cornerstone of her advocacy work. Every American needs job security and economic security.

The goal is to get more companies to hire qualified TGNC individuals in the workforce.

“Our fight is for a world where everyone’s identity is celebrated, and their rights protected, no matter the obstacles”

– Toni Newman

Contact Info:

Image Credits
1) Photo of Toni Newman
2) NMAC logo
3) Transcanwork logo
4) Coalition for Justice and Equality Across Movements
5) Toni with partner Alton Willoughby and Film Director Keith Holland for Heart of a Woman Feature Film
6) Film poster of Heart of a Woman short film

 

original link https://voyagela.com/interview/check-out-toni-newmans-story

Toni Newman just appointed to the Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board »