Today, a
jury convicted the killer of 22-year-old Lateisha Green, a
Syracuse woman who was murdered
just for being transgender. Dwight DeLee has been found guilty
of first-degree manslaughter as a hate
crime.
Although we are
satisfied that Lateisha and her family have won the justice that
they deserve in court, we recognize that no verdict can ever
bring back Lateisha or mediate the suffering and fear of
transgender New Yorkers who continue to be targeted for violence
and discrimination based solely on who they are. That’s
why the Pride Agenda will continue to call on the State Senate
to pass the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA),
which would include gender identity and expression in the State
human rights and hate crimes laws.
As our community
continues to fight for transgender civil rights, it is
absolutely crucial that we recognize the dedication and
steadfast support of Lateisha’s mother, Roxanne, and the
rest of her family. Ever since Lateisha first told her family
that she was transgender, they have been loving and supportive.
Since Lateisha’s death, they have fought tirelessly to
ensure that the public learns as much as possible about
Lateisha's life, the tragic circumstances of her death and the
tremendous violence that transgender people continue to
face.
Please take a
moment to click "Take Action" and write a heartfelt message to
Lateisha's family. By taking just a few minutes to write a note
expressing your sympathy, thanking them for their support of our
community, and pledging your commitment to fight for GENDA, you
can let Lateisha’s family know that you care about their
loss and their efforts. The sample letter below has been left
blank so that you can make your note completely personal
with your own story or words of encouragement. Just click
“Take Action" below to write and send your note to
Lateisha’s family.
Tell-a-Friend!