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November 30, 2020

Laverne Cox says she and a friend were victims of transphobic attack: 'It’s not safe if you’re a trans person'

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By Megan Stone

"Orange Is the New Black" alum Laverne Cox said she and a friend were the victims of an attack over the weekend.

Taking to Instagram on Saturday, the actress and transgender rights activist, who declined to identify her friend, said they were on a socially distanced walk in Los Angeles' Griffith Park to "catch up" on Saturday when the incident occurred.

"[I'm] just walking through the park, talking with my friend and then we pass this guy, and the guy very aggressively asks for the time," Cox shared. She said she ignored the stranger and continued walking because "that's the New Yorker in me."

Her friend, however, did answer the man, who then allegedly asked them "guy or girl?"

MORE: Laverne Cox on the evolution of trans representation in film and TV

Cox claims the man began to physically assault her friend after being told to leave. By the time the actress grabbed her phone to call 911, she claims the attacker fled the scene.

Cox said the incident "triggered" her because it brought back the harassment and bullying she faced throughout the years.

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"It just happened really quickly," the 48-year-old said while fighting back tears. "It’s not safe in the world. I don’t like to think about that a lot, but it is the truth. It’s not safe if you’re a trans person."

Cox, who claims she and her friend are "fine," spoke directly to transgender individuals suffering from harassment and trauma.

"It’s not your fault that there are people who are not cool with you existing in the world," she said.

"We have a right to walk in the park," the actress went on. "It’s not your fault if something like this happens to you. If you can, travel with friends. It’s great to be safe out there. Be careful. I love you."

Cox's post garnered support and prayers from her friends and fellow entertainers.

"Woman!!!!!!!! Ugh. I am so sorry. Love you 🙏🏾❤️" Kerry Washington commented.

"Stay strong beautiful sister👊🏾❤️" Lee Daniels wrote.

Lena Waithe added, "So sorry this happened."

Miss J Alexander wrote, "Thank God @lavernecox you and your friend are safe.🙏🏾"

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