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NCAVP mourns the death of Asia Jynaé Foster, a 22-year-old Black transgender woman who was fatally shot in Houston, TX on November 20. Unfortunately, Asia’s death coincides with Transgender Day of Remembrance.
Asia was a client of the Montrose Center, a drop-in shelter for LGBTQ youth. On Sunday November 22, the center held a vigil in Asia’s honor. On social media, the org wrote: “Asia was outgoing, funny, and she could put together a read that left everyone around her scrambling to pick up their jaws. We’re saving a seat next to Tracy [another Montrose client lost to violence] for you Asia. We love you.” At the vigil, attendees said Asia was a “beacon of light in their community.” “This will never be forgotten. Asia will never be forgotten,” said another.
In response to Asia’s death, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee tweeted out her support and condolences. Additionally, she shared that she is “seeking to pass federal legislation to investigate this repetitive national violence against transgender women of color.”
Foster’s death remains under investigation. Police ask that anyone with information call Crime Stoppers at (713) 222-TIPS (8477).
NCAVP stands in solidarity with Black trans women, and we know that it is always hard to read these reports of violence against our communities. We know this can be even more painful when there continues to be an unchecked epidemic of homicides of Black trans women, as police violence is escalating against Black and brown people, and our nation continues to be grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic that highlights long standing healthcare disparities for Black and brown 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 bilingual 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.