Wed Nov 20 18:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Atlanta Transgender Activist’s Murder Highlights Rise in Anti-LGBTQ+ Violence
**Atlanta, GA** – The recent murder of Righteous Torrance Chevy Hill, a transgender man and founder of an LGBTQ+-focused salon, Evollusion, has tragically highlighted the alarming increase in violence against transgender and gender-expansive individuals in the United States. Hill, 36, was shot and killed outside his home in February. His death is one of at least 36 similar fatalities reported between last year’s Transgender Remembrance Day and this year’s, according to the Human Rights Campaign (HRC).
The majority of these deaths involved firearms, prompting concerns from anti-gun violence advocates who link the rise in violence to growing anti-transgender sentiment. New research from Everytown for Gun Safety reveals that roughly 70% of transgender homicide victims are killed with a gun, disproportionately impacting Black transgender women, particularly in Southern states with more lenient gun laws. Over half of all transgender gun homicides occurred in the South.
Hill’s partner, Terri Wilson, described him as a selfless activist who created Evollusion to provide a safe and inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community. Wilson intends to continue Hill’s work. However, she recounted the frustration of Hill being misgendered by law enforcement after his death, despite having correct gender markers on his identification. While East Point’s LGBTQ liaison has reached out, the city has not yet commented on the incident.
The suspect, Hill’s cousin Jaylen Hill, has been arrested and is awaiting pre-indictment hearings. Wilson focuses on continuing Hill’s legacy rather than dwelling on the legal proceedings.
Experts from the HRC and Everytown emphasize that the official count likely underrepresents the true number of fatal attacks due to underreporting and misgendering. They stress the importance of accurate reporting by law enforcement and media to ensure accurate data collection and effective interventions. Organizations like Moms Demand Action highlight how anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and rhetoric contribute to a climate of hatred and violence.
Atlanta officials are working to improve safety for the LGBTQ+ community through initiatives like the Human Relations Commission and revisions to standard operating procedures for public safety officials. However, advocates say much more needs to be done to combat the pervasive violence against transgender individuals and to ensure that their lives are valued and protected.
First Piper 