Meet Charley
Public Speaker, Mentor, Advocate for Trans Equality
Charley Burton is a native of Charlottesville VA. He transitioned later in life at the age of 50.
Charley is the founder of Transforming Futures, The STEP Project, Black Transmen Can Cook and Co-founder of Diversity In Recovery.
​
Charley serves as the Board Chair for Equality Virginia; the first Black transman to hold that position.
​
He was appointed by the Governor to the Virginia LGBTQ + Advisory Council, and was named an OutStanding Virginian for 2021 by Equality Virginia. He has served in many community roles including as President of PFLAG Greater Charlottesville.
​
Charley has been in the recovery community for over 15 years and mentors and sponsors young Trans Adults in both the recovery community and the Trans Community.
​
Charley is attending Morehouse College.
Testimonials
"Working with Charley was a delight. His story is the story of so many of us and the people we serve as behavioral health professionals because it’s a story of triumph, resilience and becoming who you are destined to be."
Jennifer Bates, LCSW
​
"Charley Burton is one of the most conscientious and caring human beings I know. His experience and dedication to community is most admirable, and his willingness to share his experience and gently educate others is inspirational. I'm so proud to know Charley, and I think you will be, too!"
“Charley is one of the most engaging speakers that I've ever heard. He speaks from the heart, generously sharing his story - a story that we all need to hear.”
Lyndele von Schill, she/her
ACLU of Virginia Board Member
"Charley's voice is powerful... and backs up the stories of vulnerable people who are seeking to live an authentic life... Charley is not only a do-er--but he is a motivating force --a courageous voice and a gigantic heart for individuals and communities."
Elke Jones Zschaebitz, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Georgetown University
School of Nursing and Health Studies