Youth's Lives Every Day
By: Jaymes Black, CEO, The Trevor Project
Emmy Award-winning writer, producer, and actor Lena Waithe has long been a force in Hollywood – reshaping television and film with stories that center Black characters in all of their depth, complexity, and power. From critically acclaimed series to culture-defining moments on screen, Lena’s work has consistently expanded what audiences see, while challenging the industry to widen its lens. In 2017, she made history as the first Black woman to win the Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series – a milestone that cemented her place as a trailblazer and storyteller committed to telling the truth boldly and unapologetically.
Now, Lena is stepping into a new creative chapter with trinity, her playwriting and stage acting debut. Described as a “bold, intimate meditation on love, humanity, and imagination,” the production marks her long-awaited move to the stage. As Lena continues to evolve as an artist, her vision remains rooted in the belief that every human story deserves to be heard.
I caught up with Lena to talk about creative courage, protecting her mental health, making history, and the message she hopes LGBTQ+ young people carry with them.
Jaymes: Congrats on your playwriting and stage acting debut in trinity! What inspired you to step into new creative territory and take on this project?
Lena: This story felt timely and like something I needed to say. And I’ve been admiring the stage from afar for quite a while.
Jaymes: Much of your work explores chosen family and the importance of community for LGBTQ+ people. How has the idea of chosen family shaped your life and career?
Lena: Chosen family is something that I firmly believe in. Blood doesn’t make you family. Loving someone responsibly and really showing up for them does.
Jaymes: You made history as the first Black woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series. During Black History Month, how do you reflect on the idea of “making your own Black History,” and what does that legacy mean to you now?
Lena: Legacy is not for me to build. All I can do is my work and tell the truth as best I can. Those that aren’t even born yet will hopefully keep my legacy alive.
Jaymes: You juggle writing, acting, producing, and now playwriting in a fast-moving and high-pressure industry. How do you protect your mental health while navigating such a demanding schedule?
Lena: Meditation is a huge part of my spiritual practice. Doing silent retreats and understanding what I can and can’t control.
Jaymes: You consistently center Black characters with depth, humor, and humanity. Why do you think Black art – especially when it’s created by Black LGBTQ+ people – is so essential right now?
Lena: Everyone should be telling their stories. We should tell them honestly and boldly and with as much vulnerability as possible, the human story is what matters. And I happen to be a proud queer Black human that tells stories.
Jaymes: What message of support would you like to send to LGBTQ+ young people?
Lena: Always be yourself. Be proud of who you are – and know that your humanity matters just as much as anyone else’s.
trinity runs at Baltimore Center Stage from February 12 through March 15, 2026, featuring talkbacks with Issa Rae, Iyanla Vanzant, Debbie Allen, Meagan Good, Vic Mensa, Jaqueline Woodson, and La La Anthony.
Learn more by visiting the website here.
