“I Was Around People Who Were’ – Trans Cheerleader, Justine Lindsay on Her Formative Years at Debbie Allen Dance Academy Which Shaped Her Identity

Justine Lindsay recently made history as the NFL’s first openly transgender cheerleader. Talking about her journey to self-discovery, she attributed it to her formative years at Debbie Allen Dance Academy.

At 14, Lindsay was chosen from a pool of 100 kids to attend this prestigious academy in Los Angeles on a scholarship. This would be an experience that would shape her identity in profound ways.

Discovering Her True Self Through Dance

The academy, known for producing Disney Channel stars among its alumni, provided Lindsay with more than just dance training. It also offered her a supportive community where authenticity was celebrated. Lindsay recalls being surrounded by individuals who were unapologetically themselves.

Notably, this was a stark contrast to the norms she had encountered earlier in her life. “I was around people who were open about being who they are,” Lindsay reminisces. “I became more comfortable asking, ‘Who am I?'”

As she navigated the vibrant world of young creatives at the academy, Lindsay gradually found the answer to her question. By the time she turned 18, she had embraced her true self and proudly declared, “I was always Justine.”

Also Read: “Setting the Stage for a New Generation” -First Openly Transgender Cheerleader in Football, Justine Lindsay, on Her Unwavering Determination in the NFL

Her experiences at the academy laid the foundation for her journey of self-discovery and ultimately led her to become a symbol of authenticity and resilience for the transgender community and beyond.

Justine Lindsay’s journey of self-discovery didn’t stop at the Debbie Allen Dance Academy; it was merely the beginning of her transformation into the person she was always meant to be. The academy not only nurtured her dance skills but also instilled in her the confidence to embrace her authentic self.

Embracing Authenticity: How Dance Helped Justine Lindsay Discover Her True Identity

Growing up, Lindsay’s father had hoped she would follow in his footsteps as a football player. Her mother, however, understanding her passion, enrolled her in ballet. The disconnect between societal expectations and her own identity led Lindsay on a path of self-exploration.

After graduating from North Carolina State with a communications degree, Lindsay embarked on a journey to redefine her life as a woman. She then took on a retail job to support herself and started hormone replacement therapy. The validation she received from people who appreciated her appearance provided a sense of affirmation. “Getting looks from guys saying how pretty you are. Even though that’s not what is important, was validation that I was going in the right direction.”

However, Lindsay’s most significant transformation occurred when she connected with Black transgender women in Charlotte’s LGBTQ+ community. They welcomed her with open arms. They would also introduce her to the vibrant Southern queer ballroom scene and the powerful documentary, “Paris is Burning.”

Inspired by her newfound friends and her own desire to be true to herself, Lindsay took a bold step by auditioning for the TopCats, the Carolina Panthers’ cheerleading squad. Armed with her unique journey and immense talent, she defied stereotypes and secured her place on the team, making history as the NFL’s first openly transgender cheerleader.

Watch this story: NFL Trans Cheerleader is Shattering Stereotypes While Dancing to Authenticity