Marsha P Johnson Would Be Proud

Springfield, IL (August 23, 2025) While Marsha P Johnson’s birthday was on Sunday, August 24^th, she would have been happy to celebrate it on Saturday with the likes the Phoenix Center pulled out the stops for.  With a giant birthday cake in one corner and huge flowers draped everywhere, Marsha would have been in her element at the Inn at 835 dancing the night away with music provided by DJ ABM and décor by Mara Morkens.

During a brief conversation with Teresa Silva, Phoenix Center Executive Director, that evening, it was agreed that many in the LGBTQ+ community are unaware of the historical significance Marsha P Johnson played in the advancement of rights and the fight that was needed to make our presence respected.  Marsha P. Johnson was a fearless Black transgender activist and drag performer who played a central role in the 1969 Stonewall uprising in New York, considered a turning point in the gay rights movement. She adopted the name Marsha P. Johnson after moving to Greenwich Village. When asked what the “P” stood for, she’d famously reply, “Pay it no mind,” a witty and defiant response to questions about her gender.

Before the event, the Illinois Times interviewed the hostess of the event, Ricki Marvel, who stated, “Marsha P. Johnson was a fearless and fly woman who dedicated her life to helping people,” said Ricki Marvel, a local singer/songwriter and activist who has agreed to host the birthday event. “This event will give us a chance to honor one of our trancestors and reflect on our power, as well as the challenges BIPOC trans folks face.”

CORAL was honored to receive a special invite to the event and several members attended and enjoyed the evening’s celebration.