NCAVP mourns the death of 28-year-old Alexa Ruiz in Toa Baja, Puerto Rico

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The In Memoriam Page is the complete listing.

NCAVP mourns the death of 28-year-old Alexa Ruiz in Toa Baja, Puerto Rico whose life was tragically taken February 24, 2020.

According to many media reports, Alexa, also known as Neulisa Luciano, was known to many as a friendly, quiet woman living without shelter. After trying to use a women’s bathroom in a McDonald’s restaurant, someone called the police on Alexa. When questioned by the police, photographs of the encounter between Alexa and the police were circulated online and went viral.

It is believed by many that the viral photographs and police call made Alexa a target for the brutal violence that claimed her life hours later. We are deeply saddened by this loss and send our deepest condolences to her loved ones. We are also demanding justice for Alexa and all transgender women who have lost their lives to transphobic violence. Transgender women deserve safety, housing, and respect in day-to-day life.

On Monday, March 2, AVP will join Make the Road NY, the trans community, and allies to hold a vigil for Alexa Ruiz, and demand an end to trans violence. Join us at the corner of 83st and Roosevelt Ave at 6pm!

We know it can be hard to read these reports of violence against our communities. If you need support in these difficult times, you can always reach out to your local NCAVP member. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, you can reach our free bilngual national hotline at 212-714-1141 or report online for support.

NCAVP works to prevent, respond to, and end all forms of violence against and within lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) and HIV-affected communities. NCAVP is a national coalition of local member programs and affiliate organizations who create systemic and social change. NCAVP is a program of the New York City Anti-Violence Project.