STABBING OF TRANSGENDER FRIENDS ON Q STREET TRAGIC EXAMPLE OF HATE AND DISCRIMINATION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Brian Watson
Washington, DC – August 27, 2009 (202) 904-9969

STABBING OF TRANSGENDER FRIENDS ON Q STREET TRAGIC EXAMPLE OF HATE AND DISCRIMINATION

Statement of Anthony Hall, Executive Director

Transgender Health Empowerment (T.H.E), on behalf of T.H.E. Board, Staff and Clients

“Transgender Health Empowerment of Washington is appalled, sickened and saddened by the tragic stabbing of two transgender women on the night of August 26th in the Q Street corridor of Northwest Washington, D.C. One of the women, Tyli’a “NaNa Boo” Mack, died at the scene and as of the writing of this release the second woman is listed in critical condition at Washington Hospital Center. Tyli’a “NaNa Boo” Mack was 21 years of age.

“As our organization strives to enhance the quality of life of the diverse transgender populations throughout the Metro Washington, D.C. area we are too often reminded that even our basic right to life without hate and the threat of violence and even death is in constant jeopardy.

“As members of the Transgender community we are too well aware of the mental and physical effects of threats and violence. The violent attack on August 26th is one in a long string of violence against transgender people in Metro D.C. area. While some call for us to remain hidden or anonymous because of their prejudice, T.H.E. is one of the few transgender service providers in the Washington area with a client base that continues to grow and to seek our help.

“This act of extreme violence comes at a time when District budget cuts threaten to severely deplete our organizations funds. However our resolve remains. We are committed to a continued provision of supportive housing, health guidance, disease prevention awareness, and other related programs that positively impact the lives of our diverse populations in Washington.

“Transgender Health Empowerment extends its heartfelt condolences to all those in our community affected by the loss of Tyli’a “NaNa Boo” Mack and the severe injury of her friend. The members and Board of T.H.E. continue to believe that we are all members of the same family…….the human family and we will continue to act accordingly.”

http://dctranscoalition.wordpress.com/2009/08/27/community-mourns-vigil-tomorrow-aug-28th/