Queer women are making waves in every industry, from activism to business, sports, and pop culture. Their influence challenges stereotypes, shifts policies, and creates space for more LGBTQ+ voices.
This list highlights seven powerful lesbian and queer women shaping 2024. Their stories inspire, their work changes lives, and their impact will be felt for years to come.
Adèle Haenel – A Landmark Legal Victory in #MeToo France
Adèle Haenel in Portrait of a Lady on Fire (Film Still)
French actress Adèle Haenel made history this year when she won her case against director Christophe Ruggia, who was convicted of sexually assaulting her when she was a minor. This is a major victory for survivors of abuse in the film industry.
Haenel first spoke out in 2019, and her courage has helped push the #MeToo movement forward in France. Her win shows that powerful men can be held accountable, and justice is possible.
Rosanna Flamer-Caldera – Championing LGBTQ+ Rights in Sri Lanka
Rosanna Flamer-Caldera has spent over 20 years fighting for LGBTQ+ rights and LGBTQ+ community in Sri Lanka. Thanks to her work, the United Nations declared the country’s ban on same-sex intimacy between women a human rights violation.
This led to the decriminalization of homosexuality in Sri Lanka. Her activism is a reminder that change is possible, even in countries with strict laws against LGBTQ+ people.
Beth Ford – Breaking Barriers in the Business World
Beth Ford is the CEO of Land O’Lakes and the first openly lesbian CEO of a Fortune 500 company. She is a leader in sustainable agriculture and an advocate for rural communities.
Ford’s success proves that queer women can break into male-dominated industries and lead with integrity. She is changing the corporate world, one decision at a time.
Alex Scott – Leading the Way in Sports and Broadcasting
Alex Scott is a former professional footballer turned top sports commentator. She represented England and Great Britain in the Olympics and now leads coverage for major sports events.
In 2024, she spoke out about the racist and misogynistic abuse she has faced in the media. She also confirmed her relationship with singer Jess Glynne, further increasing LGBTQ+ representation in sports. Scott is using her platform to fight for equality and visibility.
Victoria McCloud – Fighting for Trans Rights in the UK
Victoria McCloud was the UK’s first trans judge. She resigned this year to fight a Supreme Court case that could impact trans rights across the country. If the appeal she is fighting against succeeds, trans people could lose their legal gender recognition.
McCloud is standing up for thousands of trans women who would be forced to be recognized by their birth gender. Her work in the legal system is vital for LGBTQ+ rights in the UK.
Chappell Roan – The New Queer Pop Sensation
Chappell Roan is the fresh face of queer pop music in 2024. Her theatrical performances, bold lyrics, and campy aesthetic have made her a rising star.
Songs like Good Luck, Babe! are queer anthems that celebrate self-love and heartbreak. She embraces drag culture and LGBTQ+ storytelling in a way that mainstream pop has never seen before. Roan is proving that queer artists don’t need to tone down who they are to find success.
The Power of Queer Women in 2024
These six women are pushing boundaries, fighting for justice, and changing the world. Their stories show that representation matters.
When a queer woman leads, she inspire others to do the same. As we celebrate their achievements, we also look forward to a future where LGBTQ+ voices are heard, respected, and uplifted everywhere.
Happy International Women’s Day!