Equality PA Mourns the Loss of Maya Young

This past weekend, another transgender woman was murdered in Philadelphia. Her name was Maya Young. Maya was 25 years old. She grew up in Vineland, NJ and lived in the Frankford section of Philadelphia. Maya is the third transgender woman in Philadelphia murdered within a year.

Ted Martin, Executive Director of Equality PA, made this statement today:

"Equality PA mourns another loss of a young transgender women to violence. Maya Young will be remembered. Her unnecessary end brings to light—again—the unconscionable amount of violence that transgender people face, especially transgender women of color. It is tempting to feel powerless in the face of so many tragic deaths. However, in honor of Maya Young's life, Equality PA would like to make a special call to all allies of the transgender community today: we can't allow our transgender family and friends to face this challenge alone. Allies of the transgender community must do everything we can to create safe spaces for transgender people in our workplaces, in public spaces, and anywhere we are able to exert influence. Allies have power to make a huge difference to end violence against transgender people, and we call on allies today to endeavor to do more to protect and defend our family and friends from discrimination, harassment, and violence."

EQUALITY PENNSYLVANIA

Equality Pennsylvania is the commonwealth's leading organization advancing equality and opportunity for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Pennsylvanians.

As the only equality organization based in Harrisburg — we advocate for policy change at the municipal, state, and federal level; we organize grassroots supporters to engage in the political process; we educate the public about the experiences, values, and needs of LGBT people; and we endorse candidates who are committed to being champions for equality.