Sir Lady Java wasn’t just a trailblazer; she was my second mother. Like so many trans girls, I saw myself reflected in her strength, grace, and unapologetic authenticity. For a young trans girl navigating a world that often felt cold and unwelcoming, Sir Lady Java was an icon, a beacon of hope, and living proof that staying true to yourself was a powerful act of defiance. The first time I met Lady Java was a moment that changed my life forever. I had searched for her for nearly three years before finally finding her through our mutual friend and activist, Jazzmun. When I arrived at her home, I carried a fuchsia-colored orchid: an offering of gratitude for everything she had done for us.