Although the NFL season does not begin until September, Justine Lindsay, the first openly transgender cheerleader in the NFL, is making history in the offseason.
Lindsay, 29 years old, announced in an Instagram post that she was a member of the Carolina Panthers TopCats earlier this year.
Lindsay wrote, “Cats Out the bag you are looking at the Carolina Panthers TopCats Cheerleaders @topcats Transgender Female.” I would like to thank all the talented and beautiful dancers that supported me throughout the journey. This was a moment that I will never forget. I can’t wait to show you what she has in store. It was a dream come true, @topcats.
Justine Simone Lindsay (@jus_lindsay_), shared this post.
BuzzFeed News reported Lindsay that Lindsay was too scared to share the Instagram photo in which she came out publicly.
Lindsay shared her feelings with BuzzFeed, “It was just me feeling like it didn’t matter what reaction I get,” Lindsay said. “And then, my phone started exploding.”
Lindsay has received support from fans via her Instagram posts. They also asked Lindsay to ignore hateful messages and those who question her place on the squad.
Chandalae Lanouette, TopCats director, and the Panthers both stated that Lindsay’s talents are what have secured her place on the team.
The Panthers stated in a statement to NPR that TopCats members are hired based upon their abilities and qualifications. “Our organization is an equal-opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on age, race religion, color, disability, gender, sexual orientation or national origin. We wish Justine Lindsay and all TopCats a wonderful season.
Lindsay stated that she is aware of the importance of Lindsay being a Black transwoman and has already spoken out against those who would try to take her down.
Lindsay posted on Monday an Instagram message saying, “Thanks to all my hateers who think that I’m bringing down the organization, clearly they don’t.” “The carolina Panthers Organization is an outstanding one. It supports all people, white, yellow trans, straight, etc. At the end of it all, myself and the 29 other members @topcats made sure that the squad was fair and square.
Lindsay admitted that it’s not always easy but she will continue to “pave the way for those below me who are scared or afraid to take that first step.”
“I will continue inspiring and helping my beautiful trans African American sisters until my final breath.”
