It may be time to rewrite the lyrics to that song because transgender people are quite wary of 'Walkin' in Memphis' these days.
Leeneshia Edwards, a transgender woman was shot in the face Christmas Eve in Memphis, bringing the total to three for the year in that city and four in the last four years. She remains in critical condition and they are seeking the assailant. You can read about it here.
This is on the heels of Duanna Johnson's murder in November, which followed an incident of police brutality during the summer. The lawsuit is still pending for the family on that one. The two officers in question have been discharged. The video is not fun to watch.
No doubt we will hear Ms Edwards defined by her ethnicity or personal life circumstance. As in the past, the inference may be that she put herself in a bad situation and deserved what she got. People actually do say that. My transgender friends who read this know what's going on. I'm writing for benefit of any non TG people who may read this.
We had to read the names of far too many murdered human beings November 20th. Any transperson could be on that list, me or anyone I know. It remains a fact people are stereotyped by preconceived ideas, many times by what they see on Jerry Springer. Thankfully, there are enough people putting themselves out there to the point people are learning we are quite the opposite.
The Matthew Shepherd Hate Crimes Prevention Act is so vitally important. President Elect Obama has stated this to be one of his priorities. Let us hope.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
I hear there are quite the number of good people in Memphis. This news sure taints their image, however. I hope the GLBT community there can rise up and turn the tide to their favor. The violence should be a wake up call for all of us.
Post a Comment