Rico Jacob Chace: Trans Activism, Intersectionality & Finding Queer Joy

In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with Rico Jacob Chace, one of the UK’s most visible trans voices, award-nominated activist, and filmmaker, for a powerful conversation about trans rights, intersectionality, and the importance of joy in queer life.Rico shares how his early life shaped his stubborn self-belief, why embracing his authentic identity at 25 changed everything, and the journey from a trading floor career to the front lines of activism. He opens up about navigating the world as a Black trans man, the impact of recent UK legal rulings, and the daily realities of public advocacy.From creating safe spaces and building community to finding laughter in friendship and hope in the next generation of activists, this episode is both unflinchingly honest and deeply uplifting.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Rico Jacob Chase04:15 Queer Panic07:13 Influential Queer Media and Its Impact10:08 Childhood Experiences and Identity Formation13:05 Navigating Queerness and Authenticity16:12 Activism and Community Engagement19:05 Intersectionality: Being Black and Trans22:12 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Acceptance30:12 Navigating Identity and Privilege34:00 The Impact of Recent Legal Changes39:09 Political Tactics and Community Response43:27 Understanding the Trans Experience47:58 Finding Joy and Community53:42 Advice for the Younger GenerationConnect with Ben Cicchetti:Website - https://www.queertalker.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchettiTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchettiResources Mentioned:We Create Space -  https://www.wecreatespace.co Non-Binary Barrister -  https://www.instagram.com/nonbinarybarrister/ Trans Legal Clinic - https://www.translegalclinic.com Not a Phase - https://notaphase.org Gay’s The Word - https://www.gaystheword.co.uk Trans+ Solidarity Alliance - https://www.transsolidarityalliance.com