Remembering the Lives Lost: Honoring Transgender Americans Victimized by Violence

Accident – Death – Obituary News : President Biden issued a statement on Transgender Day of Remembrance last month, emphasizing the importance of creating a society free from discrimination and hate. He acknowledged the tragic loss of 26 transgender Americans this year, particularly highlighting that the majority of those targeted were women of color. This marked the third time during Biden’s presidency that he recognized Nov. 20 as a day to honor trans people lost to violence.

However, despite the significance of the day and the ongoing brutality faced by the transgender community, Biden’s statement this year was notably shorter than in previous years. While his 2021 statement was 250 words and his 2022 statement was 264 words, this year’s statement consisted of only 208 words. It seems as though Biden and his team struggled to find new ways to address the ongoing violence and discrimination that plagues trans individuals.

The problem lies not only in the brevity of the statement but also in the fact that the numbers of transgender individuals killed each year are not definitive. Due to misgendering or “deadnaming” – when trans victims are identified by their birth name rather than their chosen name – the true toll of those victimized is likely even higher. This heartbreaking reality further emphasizes the urgent need to address violence against the transgender community.

In light of this reality, the author of this article has taken it upon themselves to share the names and stories of some of the transgender individuals who lost their lives this year. By doing so, they hope to shed light on the lives that were tragically cut short and raise awareness about the violence faced by the transgender community.

One of the individuals mentioned is Jasmine “Star” Mack, a 36-year-old woman from Washington, D.C. Described as rambunctious and spirited, she was known for her towering height of 6-foot-5 and her love for singing. Her sister, Pamela Witherspoon, remembers her as a sweet person who simply wanted a chance at life.

Another victim, KC Johnson, was a 27-year-old anime and manga fan from Wilmington, N.C. She was known for her artistic talent and would often share her drawings of characters from popular shows. Her partner, Bulla Brodzinski, spoke highly of her, stating that she was the person who motivated them to turn their life around.

The article also mentions Manuel Páez Terán, a 26-year-old nonbinary individual from Atlanta who used they/them pronouns. Terán was known for their empathy and activism, always standing up against injustice. Tragically, they were killed by Georgia State Police during a peaceful protest against the construction of a police training facility.

Maria Jose Rivera Rivera, a 22-year-old Salvadoran immigrant living in Houston, is also remembered in the article. Described as lively, funny, and dynamic, she was known for her joyful spirit. Cristian Sánchez, a friend and immigration attorney, emphasized the double oppression and marginalization faced by transgender immigrants, making them particularly vulnerable to harm.

Unique Banks, a 21-year-old from Chicago, was remembered by her father, Omar Burgos, as a loving and caring individual. He had always urged her to be cautious and make good choices in life, hoping she would leave Chicago and live with him in Florida. Her death has left her family in deep grief and disbelief.

Zachee Imanitwitaho, a 26-year-old who immigrated to the United States from Rwanda in 2019, was loved by her friends and colleagues at a Kentucky meat plant where she worked. Known for her infectious smile, Zachee was excited to start a new life in America with her mother.

Finally, Cashay Henderson, a 31-year-old from Milwaukee, was celebrated by her friends and family for her vibrant personality. Described as a bubbly spirit with a down-to-earth personality, she brought joy to those around her.

These are just a few examples of the countless transgender lives lost to violence this year. The article serves as a reminder that there is still much work to be done to create a society free from discrimination and violence against transgender individuals. President Biden’s brief statement on Transgender Day of Remembrance underscores the need for continued efforts to address and prevent such tragedies..