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There continues to be an epidemic of violence against transgender, nonbinary, and gender-nonconforming Americans. At least 27 members of this community are known to have died by violent means so far in 2022, after a record 57 such deaths were reported in 2021. Both figures are based on just the number of recognized victims, as many more go unrecognized because of deadnaming, misgendering, or overall lack of reporting. Here are those we've lost most recently:
Sasha Mason
Sasha Mason, a 45-year-old Latina, was shot to death May 13 during a robbery at her home in Zebulon, N.C. Police have arrested two men, Ali Tariq Khabir Wiggins and Julius Antwan Smith. They are both charged with conspiracy to commit armed robbery with a dangerous weapon, and additional charges are likely, according to police, who told local media the attack was targeted.
Shawmayne Giselle Marie McClam
Shawmayne Giselle Marie McClam was shot to death at her apartment in Gulfport, Miss., June 21. Makhari Seven Gasaway, 20, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder and aggravated assault. McClam had recently completed training to become a certified nursing assistant, driving to Alabama for classes, and was scheduled to start work as a traveling CNA June 27.
Chanelika Y Ella Dior Hemingway
Chanelika Y Ella Dior Hemingway, 30, a recent graduate of the University of Albany in New York, was found dead in her Albany apartment May 31, and police have ruled her death a homicide. The police have not disclosed how she was killed and have released few details overall.
Kitty Monroe
Kitty Monroe was fatally shot June 29 in Cordova, Tenn., near Memphis. Police have arrested Samuel Ward Jr. and charged him with voluntary manslaughter. Monroe is being remembered as "a beautiful person" and an animal lover; she had four dogs.
Brazil Johnson
Brazil Johnson, 28, died of multiple gunshot wounds June 15 in Milwaukee. No suspect has been identified, and a reward is being offered for information that leads to an arrest. Johnson worked as a chef. "Bake, chef it up, loved to get in the kitchen," her mother, Bernita Gildart, told a local TV station.
Martasia Richmond
Martasia Richmond, 30, was stabbed to death July 11 in Chicago. She was found on the porch of a home there when police responded to a complaint of domestic battery. Police have arrested Daniel Burley, 31, described as Richmond's partner. He is charged with first-degree murder, but his lawyers claim he acted in self-defense.
This story is part of The Advocate's 2022 History issue, which is out on newsstands August 30. To get your own copy directly, support queer media and subscribe -- or download yours for Amazon, Kindle, Nook, or Apple News.
