Maria Louise Roman-Taylorson

Maria Louise Roman-Taylorson is a pioneering advocate and leader in transgender social services in Los Angeles, with over 30 years of experience. A proud Puerto Rican Latina, Maria began her journey of self-discovery at 19, overcoming homelessness and hardship to become a voice for the transgender community.
Maria made history as the first transgender Program Manager of the Transgéneros Unidas program at Bienestar Human Services. She has received numerous honors, including the Community Hero’s Award (2005), the Harvey Milk Award (2009), and the Women in Leadership Award.
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A passionate activist, Maria has served on several boards and committees, including the Liberty Hill Foundation, the West Hollywood Transgender Advisory Committee, and the LA County HIV Commission. She's been a keynote speaker and presenter at major conferences and continues to advocate for increased resources for trans-specific programming.
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Maria also was a Cast member of a Lovely Bouquet of Flower, a stage show that showcased transgender stories with an all Trans Cast, that has now become the documentary In Full Bloom. VESSELS an AFI film by director Arkasha Stevens, Maria plays the role of a silicone pumper, this film has received critical acclaim internationally and its still making the rounds in film festivals across the World, Maria also had a co-star role in the Emmy Award Winner Amazon series season 2 of TRANSPARENT. Her Latest role includes a Prep Comercial and the Short Film Familia directed by Kase Pena. Maria Roman also has made numerous appearances on Television including the Tyra Banks Show, El Show de Cristina, Entertainment Tonight, The Insider, and Despierta America among many others.
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Currently, Maria is the Vice President and Chief of Staff of the TransLatin@ Coalition, where she leads programs providing critical services for transgender individuals. She remains a dedicated advocate, uplifting her community and fighting for those often left behind.