The Stroll 2023

Kristen Moves to NYC

In the 1990s, Director Kristen Lovell relocated to New York City seeking new opportunities. However, her journey took an unexpected turn when she was fired from her job due to her transition, forcing her to navigate a challenging new reality.

Life in the Meatpacking District

Faced with dire circumstances, Kristen, like many transgender women of color at the time, turned to sex work as a means of survival. The Meatpacking District became a hub for trans women, who found solace and strength in the community known as 'The Stroll'.

Community Bonding

In 'The Stroll', trans women formed deep connections, providing each other with protection against the pervasive dangers of harassment and violence. This camaraderie was crucial during a time when societal acceptance was limited and threats were ever-present.

Archival Footage and Storytelling

Kristen embarked on a project to document the experiences of her fellow sisters through interviews and archival footage. These perspectives brought forth a rich narrative of New York's culture from the 1970s to the early 2000s, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of trans sex workers.

Impact of Gentrification

The film delves into the era of Mayor Giuliani, where 'quality of life' initiatives led to intensified police activity. These initiatives disproportionately affected the trans women in the Meatpacking District, pushing them toward the margins of society.

Tragic Loss: Amanda Milan

The narrative took a heart-wrenching turn with the murder of Amanda Milan, a prominent member of The Stroll. This devastating event sparked outrage and galvanized the community, calling for justice and attention to their plight.

Sylvia Rivera's Activism

In response to Amanda's murder, activist Sylvia Rivera emerged as a leading voice for the trans community. Through her involvement with STAR, she organized efforts to protect the rights of trans individuals, marking a significant moment in the civil rights movement.

Post-9/11 Challenges

After the events of September 11th, the landscape of New York City changed drastically. Kristen and her sisters faced the grim reality of potential homelessness along with an increased police presence that further marginalized their community.

Bloomberg's Policies

Under Mayor Mike Bloomberg, the city implemented policies aimed at economic revitalization, which often led to luxury developments. However, these initiatives disproportionately targeted sex workers and contributed to rising incarceration rates among trans women.

Rallying for Rights

In the face of systemic oppression, Kristen and her community rallied together to advocate for their rights. Their determination underscored the importance of solidarity in confronting significant societal challenges.

Repeal of 'Walking While Trans'

A significant victory for the community came with the repeal of the 'Walking While Trans' legislation. This law, which facilitated the policing of sex workers for years, was a source of much tension and its repeal marked a pivotal moment for trans rights.

A New Era of Visibility

With a newfound visibility and activism, Kristen and her sisters emerged as central figures in the fight for their rights. Their stories and struggles highlighted the resilience and strength of trans women of color as they navigated a challenging landscape.