Arts & Entertainment
Nike’s new ad celebrates trans vogue artist Leiomy Maldonado
Maldonado is the brand’s second featured trans athlete

(Screenshot via YouTube.)
Nike recognizes voguing as a sport in its new ad starring transgender, vogue artist Leiomy Maldonado as part of its #betrue campaign.
Maldonado is known as the “Wonder Woman of Vogue” and made her debut on MTV’s “America’s Best Dance Crew” in 2009. She is the brand’s second transgender athlete to be featured in a commercial. Chris Mosier, the first transgender man to be included on the U.S. men’s national team, was the first.
Narrated by Precious Angel Ramirez, the ad celebrates the art and athleticism of vogueing. Laverne Cox praised the ad and reposted the clip on Instagram captioned, “There’s so much to post and share this week, the girls are doing big things, trans folks are stepping forward with talent, vision and determination and I love you all.”
Watch the ad below.
Photos
PHOTOS: Shenandoah Valley Pride
LGBTQ celebration held at Turner Pavilion in Harrisonburg, Va.
The 2026 Shenandoah Valley Pride Festival was held at Turner Pavilion in Harrisonburg, Va. on Sunday, Sept. 20.
(Washington Blade photos by Landon Shackelford)
















Whitman-Walker Health held the 40th annual Walk and 5K to End HIV at Anacostia Park on Saturday, Sept. 19.
(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)



















Photos
PHOTOS: Wanda Alston Foundation Fall Reception
LGBTQ youth services organization honors Robert White, Japer Bowles, Washington Capitals
The Wanda Alston Foundation held its Fall Reception at the Penthouse Rooftop at The Wharf on Friday, Sept. 18. Honorees included D.C. Councilmember Robert White, Director of the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs Japer Bowles, and the Washington Capitals. Rayceen Pendarvis served as the emcee and entertainment was provided by the Thomas Circle Singers.
(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)





















