LOS ANGELES —The Los Angeles Police Department has announced they are investigating the murder of Deshawnda Sanchez, who was shot and killed in South Los Angeles earlier this week.
“The National LGBTQ Task Force is outraged by the murder of Deshawnda Sanchez and the ongoing homicides targeting transgender women of color taking place throughout the nation. This year alone, twelve transgender African-American and Latina women have been murdered—and there seems to be no end in sight to these ongoing tragedies,” said Rev. Darlene Nipper, deputy executive director at the National LGBTQ Task Force.
“Our country is faced with a deadly epidemic targeting transgender women of color, black youth, and black men that is fueled by hate and discrimination,” added Rev. Nipper. “Together as a nation, we have the moral imperative to dismantle racism, transphobia, homophobia, and every form of discrimination. No one should ever fear for their life and safety simply because of who they are or who they love. We call on local authorities to use every tool in their power to bring justice to Deshawnda, her loved ones, and the entire transgender community.”
Transgender community activists and allies are holding a vigil tonight, December 5, 2014 at 6 p.m. in memory of Deshawnda Sanchez. Participates will gather at Chesterfield Square, 1800 W. Slauson Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90047.
Anyone with information about Deshawnda Sanchez’s murder is asked to call LAPD detectives at the 77th Street Police Station at 213-485-4175 or report it anonymously online at:http://www.lapdonline.org/report_a_crime
Earlier this year, the National LGBTQ Task Force launched #StopTransMurders, a public education campaign to raise the voices of transgender activists and allies working to end anti-transgender violence. On November 18, the organization joined the TransLatin@ Coalition, Familia: Trans Queer Liberation Movement, Lambda Legal, El/LA Para Trans Latinas, and advocates from across the country in a National Day of Action calling for an end to anti-transgender violence and homicides.
