Trans opera star, Breanna Sinclairé, shares reflections on her journey amidst the celebration of Pride Month and Juneteenth.

On the occasion of Juneteenth and Pride Month, Breanna Sinclairé shares her personal experience of facing discrimination based on both her race and gender identity journey. Sinclairé, a trans opera star from the Bay Area, recently sang the National Anthem at Oracle Park in San Francisco.

Just two years prior to her performance, Sinclairé faced housing insecurity and experienced a period of homelessness, which is a common struggle for many transgender individuals. Despite the challenges of existing on the margins and being a target in the current political climate, Sinclairé pursued her Masters Degree and fought through obstacles to make her voice heard.

“We are still dealing with racism, transphobia,” said Sinclairé. She wants her singing to unite people and highlight the difficulties she has faced to get to where she is today.

Performing the National Anthem is a daunting task for any singer. However, it becomes even more challenging for Sinclairé in the midst of heightened political discussions around trans individuals in sports. The pressure is palpable.

This is why Sinclairé wanted to start her day before the ballpark at the Castro Theatre, to connect with the energy of her trans ancestors. She feels their presence and acknowledges the pioneering work of trans women of color like Miss Major and Janet Mock.

Sinclairé now sees herself as carrying on the legacy of those who came before her. She understands that her performances are being watched by audiences who are grappling with their own opinions on trans issues.

Despite the alarming increase in anti-trans legislation, Sinclairé believes in the power of hope. “There is hope, even in difficult times. We can only move forward and survive,” she said.

Reed Cowan

As KPIX 5’s 3 p.m. anchor, community-issues reporter and Executive Producer over EPIC storytelling, I hope to get to know you and earn your trust. I promise, when I tell your story, I’ll do my best to live my values about how stories can shape and change our world, always seeking to make visible what is essential to the stories that shape this beautiful part of California.