It's no surprise that April Ashley received an MBE for trans equality.
She underwent gender reassignment surgery in 1960 and went on to live her life as a socialite, actress, model and campaigner for equality.
It wasn't without hardship however, as a judge ruled she could not marry a man, and her celebrity lifestyle led to a heart attack and subsequent reclusivity. But April persisted. She received an MBE for her hard work and was eventually granted a birth certificate recognising her as female. She died in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of an inspirational true pioneer.
April Ashley was not scared to be her true authentic self. She lived life as a woman because she was a woman. She is truly a pioneer who stands for freedom of expression, equality and authenticity.
"Live your best life - it's the only one you'll get."