In a tragic incident, a transgender woman of color, Tasha Johnson, lost her life in a hate crime. Tasha was involved in a minor car accident when the other driver, enraged, held her at gunpoint demanding immediate compensation for damages. Witnesses reported that someone nearby encouraged the driver to physically assault Tasha in exchange for cash, leading to a brutal beating that was filmed and cheered by bystanders, before a group of women intervened to protect her.
Just weeks later, Tasha was found shot to death. While the circumstances of these events might not be directly connected, her murder is part of a distressing pattern. In Texas, gender identity is not included in hate crime laws, leaving many individuals like Tasha vulnerable. In a parallel incident occurring the same weekend, another transgender woman of color, Angela Rivera, was also fatally shot in Philadelphia. Angela was known for her advocacy and support of the LGBTQ community, yet was discovered with fatal gunshot wounds.
Raquel Evita Saraswati, chair of the Mayor’s Commission on LGBT Affairs, expressed solidarity and called for an end to the violence that disproportionately affects Black trans women. “Our community cannot thrive without the contributions of Black trans women,” she stated, mourning Angela’s loss and emphasizing the need for action against anti-Black and anti-trans violence. Despite the gravity of these crimes, no arrests have been made.
The statistics reveal a grim reality: last year alone, 26 transgender homicides were recorded, with the majority being Black women. Currently, only four states—California, Nevada, Illinois, and Rhode Island—prohibit the use of the “gay and transgender panic” defense, which allows murderers to shift blame onto their victims, particularly targeting LGBTQIA+ individuals. Trans women of color are particularly at risk, making up 80% of anti-transgender homicides.
Sarah McBride, a prominent transgender advocate, highlighted the urgent need for society to recognize the violence faced by marginalized individuals. “This epidemic is hate-based and fueled by deep-seated prejudices,” she stated. The reality for many transgender individuals is a constant struggle for existence, facing discrimination in various facets of life, including education and healthcare. This lack of support contributes to heightened mental health issues, homelessness, and violence against them.
As we approach Pride Month, a time typically dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ achievements, the stark reality for Black transgender women remains troubling. Figures like Janet Mock and Laverne Cox continue the fight for visibility and rights, reminiscent of historical figures like Marsha P. Johnson, who played a pivotal role during the Stonewall riots. Johnson’s struggles echo in today’s challenges; her death, once ruled a suicide, remains shrouded in uncertainty.
In 2019 alone, five transgender women, all Black, have been killed. The fear and anger that accompany these tragedies are overwhelming. As a parent of a transgender child, my concern for her safety often overshadows my own fears. The reality is, both my daughter and I are targets in a society that perpetuates violence against transgender individuals.
It’s crucial for everyone to engage in creating inclusive environments for transgender individuals. Simple actions such as asking for pronouns, displaying signs of allyship, and ensuring access to gender-neutral facilities can make a significant difference. Resources like this excellent guide on addressing infertility can also be helpful for those seeking support, and if you’re interested in more about family planning, our post on home insemination kits is a great read. Additionally, check out these delicious pizza rolls that can be fun for the family.
In summary, the violence against transgender women of color is a pervasive issue that demands immediate attention. Each life lost is a reminder of the work still needed to foster acceptance and safety for all individuals, regardless of their identity. It is our collective responsibility to advocate for change and ensure that every person is respected and valued.