Laverne Cox just became the first openly-transgender actress to be nominated for an Emmy Award.Â

Laverne Cox has become a household name, and her nomination today forÂ Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series for her portrayal ofÂ Sophia Burset inÂ Orange Is the New Black makes her the first openly-transgender actress to be nominated for an Emmy — but itÂ is just one more achievement in an impressive list.

Cox’s first acting gig was in a 2007 episode ofÂ Law and Order: Special Victims Unit. She was also the host and producer of 2010’sÂ TRANSform Me.Â

Earlier this year, Cox made the cover of Time magazine, and two weeks ago she was the grand Marshal at New York City’s Pride parade.

Cox is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ rights and often speaks publicly about trans issues.

She has created an awareness about the trans community, which is in great need of more protection and support.

Orange Is The New BlackÂ was nominated for 12 Emmys.Â

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