Longtime Activist Miss Major Griffin-Gracy Dies at 78

Activist and author Miss Major Griffin-Gracy, widely known as Miss Major, has passed away at the age of 78.

In a statement shared on her Instagram account, the House of GG confirmed that she died “in the comfort of her home and surrounded by loved ones in Little Rock, Arkansas.” The cause of death was not disclosed.

Miss Major was honored as a “beloved leader and revolutionary figure in the TLGBQ liberation movement.”

She founded the House of GG (The Griffin-Gracy Educational and Historical Center), a safe and affirming space for transgender and gender-nonconforming people — especially those facing transphobia, racism, sexism, poverty, ableism, and violence. The center also served as a refuge “to take a break, swim, enjoy good food, laugh, listen to music, watch movies, and recharge for the ongoing fight for our lives,” according to the organization’s tribute.

“Her enduring legacy is a testament to her resilience, activism, and dedication to creating safe spaces for Black trans communities and all trans people—we are eternally grateful for Miss Major’s life, her contributions and how deeply she poured into those she loved,” the statement continued.

Known affectionately as “Mama” to many, Miss Major spent more than fifty years advocating for equality and uplifting marginalized voices. Her activism began in New York, where she worked with communities affected by HIV/AIDS, and later expanded to mentoring incarcerated trans women — whom she lovingly called “her gurls.”

“She affirmed that our lives hold meaning and that we stand on the shoulders of giants like her, whose courageous love and relentless fight assured our right to live with dignity. We will forever honor her memory, her steadfast presence, and her enduring commitment to our collective liberation,” the post added.

Tributes poured in across social media. Actor Indya Moore wrote, “May peace, rest, and an infinitely harmonious reality be upon Miss Major, for the rest of eternity. We will continue to uphold the legacy of love, righteousness, Truth and dignity that Miss Major has held for and with us.”

Queer femme activist and sex educator Ericka Hart added, “Rest in absolute power Miss Major, we are forever indebted to you.”

Miss Major is survived by her longtime partner, Beck Witt; three sons, Asaiah, Christopher, and Jonathon; her many daughters; the successor of the Miss Major Alexander L. Lee TGIJP Black Trans Cultural Center; and sisters Tracie O’Brien and Billie Cooper.

---