Erica Nix looks like a dance instructor straight out of an ‘80s workout video as she faces the small crowd and waits for the music to begin. Decked out in a purple crop top, checkered bicycle shorts, and fuschia platform sneakers, she blossoms against the backdrop of the Texas State Capitol interior. Her eyes flit between the dozen or so dancers in front of her and a portable speaker nearby. Just behind Nix is a winding staircase; this will be her dance floor. When the glittery vocals of trans-pop artist p1nkstar sound from the speaker, it’s showtime.
Let the dancing commence.
“Five, six, seven, eight… and wave your arms, add some flair!” Nix hollers as she bounces up and down the steps, leading the group into a series of jazz hands and ballet twirls. The dancers are a colorful assortment of trans activists and allies, brought together by the Transgender Education Network of Texas (TENT). They follow the wild movements to the best of their ability, giggling sheepishly as their flailing arms brush against one another. Someone’s tennis shoes coax a small squeak from the terrazzo floors.
