Honoring the Resilience of Transgender Elders

For too long, the narrative of a 35-year life expectancy has negatively impacted the transgender community. Thankfully, this is shifting, driven by greater visibility and the crucial work of organizations offering vital support.

The TransLatin@ Coalition is a leading force in this change, and their Center of Excellence for Elderly Trans (CEET) embodies their dedication. Supported by Gilead Sciences’ HIV Age Positively initiative, this program empowers individuals over 50, particularly those living with or vulnerable to HIV.

Loretta Lorraine, Stacy Spencer, Elsa Johnson, Grecia de Pablos, Sara Flores and Marimar Martinez at The TransLatin@ Coalition’s “Trillion Cut: Diamonds of Resilience” Premiere at The Harmony Gold on March 28, 2025 Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kane C. Andrade/ The TransLatin@ Coalition)

Recognizing the profound impact of visual storytelling, The TransLatin@ Coalition embarked on a two-year project to elevate the voices of their monthly support group. Six extraordinary women – Loretta, Elsa, Sara, Lucy, Grecia, and Stacy – generously shared their experiences navigating healthcare, housing, and demonstrating incredible resilience.

The culmination of this effort is “Trillion Cut: Diamonds of Resilience,” a feature-length documentary that offers a moving portrayal of these six transgender aging women in Los Angeles who find strength and community within their "Diamonds" group. The film explores their personal battles against societal prejudice and their efforts to access essential resources, ultimately showcasing their incredible resilience.

Executive produced by Bamby Salcedo and edited by Armando Ibanez, the film also holds a special significance for me. As the cinematographer, I felt privileged to document each of their stories, and this project marked my directorial debut on a feature-length documentary, an experience that filled me with immense joy and a deep sense of pride.

Paolo J. Riveros, Bamby Salcedo and Armando Ibañez at The TransLatin@ Coalition’s “Trillion Cut: Diamonds of Resilience” Premiere at The Harmony Gold on March 28, 2025 Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kane C. Andrade/ The TransLatin@ Coalition)

“Trillion Cut: Diamonds of Resilience” is more than just a film; it is a celebration of lives lived with extraordinary courage and a hopeful affirmation of the changing and positive narrative surrounding our transgender elders.