Sir Lady Java

Sir Lady Java (August 20, 1942 – November 16, 2024), also known simply as Lady Java, was an American transgender rights activist, exotic dancer, singer, comedian, and actress. Active on stage, television, radio and film from the mid-1960s to 1970s, she was a popular and influential personality in the Los Angeles-area African-American LGBTQ community.

Biography

Early life Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on August 20, 1942, Java transitioned at a young age with the support of her mother, and began singing and dancing in local nightclubs. By 1965, she had become a mainstay of the nightclub circuit, where she was associated with such figures as Redd Foxx, Sammy Davis Jr., Richard Pryor, Flip Wilson, Rudy Ray Moore, LaWanda Page, and Don Rickles. Lady Java cited Lena Horne, Mae West, and Josephine Baker as inspirations for her performances, which involved dancing, impersonations, singing, and comedy. Redd Foxx's club on October 21 and partnered with the American Civil Liberties Union in a bid to overturn the rule. The court rejected Java's case with the ACLU, stipulating that only club owners could sue. Rule Number 9 ultimately was struck down after a separate dispute in 1969.

In 1978, Java performed with Lena Horne at a birthday party for nightclub owner and columnist Gertrude Gipson.

Later years From the 1980s, Java kept a lower public profile. After retiring from performance and recovering from a stroke, she made a limited return to public life, appearing locally in southern California and giving interviews. In June 2016, she was a guest of honor at the 18th annual Trans Pride L.A. festival alongside CeCe McDonald. Java also participated in the 2022 Los Angeles Pride Parade as Community Grand Marshal. Java has been recognized as a trailblazer.

Death Java died in Los Angeles on the evening of November 16, 2024, at the age of 82.

Filmography Year Film RoleNotes 1976 The Human Tornado SelfIn 1976, Java portrayed herself in the Dolemite sequel The Human Tornado.

Awards and honors

1971 – Guest of honor, Alpha Chapter (Los Angeles) of the Full Personality Expression 2016 – Guest of honor, 18th Annual Trans Pride L.A.