NCAVP mourns the death of Keanna Mattel, a 35 year-old Black trans woman in Detroit, MI. Keanna was a vibrant member of Detroit’s ballroom scene. She had also spoken in media about hate violence against trans women in Detroit in 2015. On the morning of December 7, Keanna was found dead by apparent homicide. According to media reports, Detroit police have arrested an unnamed 46-year-old male in connection with the shooting. Keanna’s loved ones took to social media to mourn her passing.
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 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.