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Icons: Sir Lady Java

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The Rise and Fall of Sir Lady Java

Java was the first trans woman of color to launch a career as a nightclub performer in Los Angeles. Her stage act showcased her many talents, from singing to impersonations to Stand Up Comedian. She became a staple of the city's nightlife and attracted stars like Richard Pryor,. James Brown, Sammy Davis Jr., and even her longtime idol, Lena Horne. In 1967, the city passed a new ordinance that became known as Rule 9. It essentially outlawed shows in which a performer was impersonating the opposite sex. The clubs where Java had become popular now had to ban her from performing or risk losing their licenses. But Java wasn't ready to give up; she connected with the local chapter

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