Vigils were held across the UK to remember Brianna Ghey and raise awareness about the alarming number of trans and gender diverse people who have been murdered worldwide. According to the annual study released by Transgender Europe (TGEU), a total of 320 individuals were killed between October 2022 and September 2023, with the majority being trans women of colour. The report revealed that 94% of the victims were trans women or trans-feminine individuals, and nearly half of the murdered trans people globally were sex workers. Furthermore, 80% of the reported murders involved trans people affected by racism, which is a 15% increase from the previous year.
The study also highlighted the vulnerability faced by racialized transgender migrants and refugees, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive support and protection for this community. Farah Abdi, a policy officer at TGEU, stressed the importance of addressing systemic issues that contribute to the marginalization and violence faced by trans migrants and refugees.
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Latin America and the Caribbean reported the highest number of murder cases, with 235 incidents, followed by Europe. Belgium, Armenia, and Slovakia reported trans murders for the first time. However, the report acknowledged that the actual number of trans people who have been killed is likely higher due to underreporting.
In response to the findings, TGEU and other LGBTQ+ organizations called on activists, policymakers, lawmakers, and donors to take immediate action to protect the lives of trans and gender-diverse individuals. They emphasized the need for hate crime legislation, access to healthcare, housing, and job opportunities, and an end to overall structural discrimination.
The UK was deeply affected by the murder of Brianna Ghey, a 16-year-old trans student who was stabbed in a park in Warrington earlier this year. In the weeks following her death, vigils were held across the country to mourn her loss and express solidarity with the trans community. Attendees spoke of their heartbreak and their determination to continue fighting for the protection of trans rights.
Authorities urge anyone who has witnessed or experienced a hate crime to report it to the police or visit the True Vision website. In emergencies, dial 999.
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