We were lucky to catch up with Tracee McDaniel recently and have shared our conversation below.
Tracee , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I truly believe that I didn’t have to seek out my purpose during the height of the civil rights movement on that cold January night in Sumter, South Carolina, I was born with it. Over the years, I’ve become more aware what walking in my purpose looks like, which includes, but not limited to becoming an advocate for the voiceless, and those that look like me, living our own personal Trans experiences.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
In addition to advocating for Equity for Trans, Gender Non-Conforming and Non-Binary people, I am also a published author, currenting writing my second book entitled, “SUMTER GIRO-MY JOURNEY REMAINING SANE AFTER BECOMING THE VERY FIRST TRANS PERSON APPOINTED TO SERVE ON THE ATLANTA CITIZEN REVIEW BOARD”.
‘SUMTER GIRL” is an autobiographical story that chronicles the six years, serving on the ACRB from 2016-2023, of which the Police Oversight Board reviews citizen complaints against Atlanta Police Officers and Correctional Officers, then make recommendations to the Mayor and Police Chief to address citizen’s complaints.
“SUMTER GIRL” also goes behind the scenes providing unfiltered insight into my journey leading up the the unprecedented Appointment, in addition to spilling the tea on other events occurring at the time, as well as exposing what was really going down in my personal life, before, during and after my term ended in 2023.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Three factors earlier on were being accountable to my mother/family, representing us well. Another factor for me was being discerning and selective about my peer group, and those influencing me.
Another factor is know my value, and not letting anyone or anything convince me of being anything less than the resilient, brave, smart, compassionate individual, of whom my creator intended for me to be from inception.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am definitely seeking collaboration. I am seeking a Literary Book Agent, Publicist, and publishing for “SUMTER GIRL”.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thejct.org
- Instagram: @tracee.mcdaniel4life
- Facebook: https;//www.facebook.com/tracee.mcdaniel
- Youtube: https://youtubr.com/@juxtaposedcenter?si=u4n_ZUc-08Ve16kO

Image Credits
Stillman photography
Tracee McDaniel Archives
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
