The San Francisco Latino Democratic Club is dismayed to have learned of the recent murder of trans Latina Taja Gabrielle De Jesus.
It saddens us to see that trans people are continued to be seen as less than human and ultimately disposable. We are dismayed at this continuation of dehumanizing victims to justify their killing. There is never an excuse for the loss of life, no matter the circumstance.
We also recognize the structural violence the trans community faces that informs their decision to not contact law enforcement in times of need. Unfortunately this same decision is made by our Latino immigrant populations who fear retaliation due to their undocumented status.
As an organization we will continue to fight all forms of violence and advocate for all members of our community. We will also support trans-led efforts in eradicating the ongoing structural violence that their community faces.