In 2006, an analysis conducted by the Gender Public Advocacy Coalition (GenderPAC) found that Washington D.C. had the highest number of reported incidents of violent acts committed against transgender individuals in the United States. The report also found that 91% of victims for which race was known were youth of color, and Black and Latino victims accounted for the vast majority (85%). This suggests that both race and gender non-conformity are crucial factors in increasing a young person's vulnerability to fatal assault.

Earl Fowlkes, the President/CEO of the International Federation of Black Prides (IFBP) said that the murders of Ukia Davis, 18 and Stephanie Thomas, 19, along with the recent news of off duty D.C. police officer Kenneth Furr, who was charged with assault with a dangerous weapon after a "confrontation" with several transgender individuals, "serve as critical reminders that despite recent gains in LGBT related equality in the District and around the country, much work still needs to be done."

For more information about the IFBP's response and their recommendations for police, educators, the media, legislatures, youth and organizations you can contact Earl Fowlkes at jrfowlkes@aol.com or by calling (202) 841-7104.

For more information about the IFBP click here.