This story is brought to you by our partners at the Kingdom of Navassa.The Kingdom of Navassa (Navassa), a socio-cultural initiative based in Rochester, N.Y., announced the launch of the worlds first Bernadine Casseus Trans Laureate Program. Named after Bernadine Casseus, a beloved local transgender woman and ballroom community advocate, the program arrives amid an increasingly hostile national climate for transgender people and aims to uplift transgender, nonbinary and gender-expansive individuals through civic engagement, artistic expression and public storytelling.The Trans Laureate embodies our belief that art can heal, unite and catalyze change, said Marie-Adlina de la Ferrire, founder of Navassa, niece of Casseus, and community editor of equalpride.De la Ferrire said the program was inspired both by her late aunts legacy and the urgent need to support trans voices at a time of widespread cultural and political attacks. Rather than focusing solely on defense and survival, she said the program seeks to place trans brilliance center stage, empowering individuals to lead through art and connection.The Trans Laureate will serve a one-year term starting in January 2026, curating public events such as performances, workshops, readings and exhibitions, while acting as a cultural ambassador locally and beyond. The position includes a $5,000 budget for an honorarium and community programming.Applicants must be at least 21 years old, identify as transgender, nonbinary or gender-expansive, and have a demonstrated record in community engagement, the arts, humanities or storytelling. Finalists will be interviewed in the fall, and the inaugural laureate will be announced during Trans Awareness Week in November.The program expands Navassas broader mission to merge art and civic life. Other projects include Flower City Queens, a fundraising calendar showcasing drag performers from Rochester, with proceeds supporting LGBTQ+ initiatives in both Greater Rochester and Haiti.The program has received initial support, including a $2,500 Pride Grant from Trillium Health Foundation. To ensure long-term sustainability, Navassa has launched a GoFundMe campaign and is seeking additional support from cultural institutions, foundations and individuals committed to trans-led programming.Securing an inaugural Pride Grant from Trillium Health Foundation shows that our region stands behind trans creatives but lasting impact will take collective effort, de la Ferrire said. Through this program, Navassa is doubling down on culture as community care.Prospective applicants must submit a personal statement, rsum, work samples and letters of support by 11:59 p.m. ET on Sept. 6. More information and application details are available at kingdomofnavassa.org/laureate.Apply by Sept. 6, 2025: kingdomofnavassa.org/laureate