Laverne Cox Reports 90% Income Drop Amidst DEI Rollback

The Orange Is the New Black star cites a dramatic loss of speaking engagements and teaching opportunities under the current administration.

Financial Impact

Actress and activist Laverne Cox has reported a severe decline in her income, stating in a recent interview with The Guardian that her earnings have fallen by approximately 90% over the past few years.

"I have had to use savings and retirement funds to cover expenses."

Cox attributed this financial downturn to the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives by the U.S. federal government under President Donald Trump's administration.

Loss of Work

The Emmy-nominated actress noted that the shifting political landscape has directly impacted her professional opportunities. She reported losing multiple college speaking engagements and teaching positions, attributing this to federal policies that threaten funding for institutions promoting gender ideology or DEI programs.

While she acknowledged having the privilege of savings to fall back on, Cox warned that others in the transgender community face far more severe consequences.

Broader Concerns

Cox stated that the administration's actions have resulted in widespread losses for transgender people, including jobs, healthcare, and rights. She offered a stark warning about the trajectory of these policies.

"These attacks on gender-affirming care are not about protecting women—they are about scapegoating and dehumanizing transgender individuals."

The actress characterized the current political climate as one that could lead to potential "extermination" for the transgender community, emphasizing that the threats extend far beyond financial hardship.