Trans

Patricia Arquette paid a beautiful tribute to her late sister trans activist Alexis Arquette

Apr 02 2017
Written by Meka Beresford

Actor Patricia Arquette has paid a beautiful tribute to her late sister Alexis, who was a fierce transgender activist.

Speaking at the GLAAD awards the 48-year-old praised her sister’s “bravery” and her fight for the transgender community across the world.

“She wanted to help move the world forward to a time and future where every trans kid could live their full potential,” Patricia said of her sister.

“She wanted to help move the world forward to a time when they could be seen as complete, whole and equal human beings.”

The actor added that her own activism would “pale in the light” of her sisters’.

“She couldn’t live a life that was a lie, so whatever mark I have made in this life in activism will always pale in the light of Alexis’ bravery and in the light of the bravery of every trans kid growing up in America,” she said.

Arquette spoke after being awarded the Vanguard Award for her work as an ally to the LGBT community.

The actor used her speech as an opportunity to call for people to protest against the US government’s current treatment of transgender people, whether it was through contacting congress or marching on the streets.

“You don’t need to have transgender family member or a gay friend for this to affect you.

“It doesn’t matter what colour or gender or faith you are. There are so many marginalised groups right now under attack. When one of us is vulnerable, all of us are vulnerable.”

“We are all human,” Arquette added. “So, let’s allow our humanity to lead us toward respect and tolerance.”

Alexis Arquette died in September last year following complications from HIV at 47.

Patricia revealed that she was still struggling to come to terms with the death of her sister, but has said she was “blown away” by her courage.