We will persist in ending all forms of violence

Center on Halsted mourns the death of 17-year-old Ally Lee Steinfeld. Ally was a transgender teenager brutally murdered in Texas County, Missouri on September 5, 2017. Details are emerging that four suspects have been charged, one of whom Ally was believed to be in a relationship with, but this does not bring back the beautiful life of Ally, or stop the escalating violence directed at the transgender community. Ally just recently came out as transgender and was beginning to experience living true to herself.

We must stand in solidarity with our LGBTQ community to ensure equality and justice for individuals, friends, and families that have been impacted by hatred and violence. We must provide supportive and affirming environments for transgender and gender non-conforming youth through mentorship and leadership. We must continue to work and prevent dating violence. Love should not be stigmatized. We all deserve and are capable of healthy, supportive relationships.

We will persist in ending all forms of violence by empowering lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and HIV-affected communities and through organizing and education, and supporting survivors through counseling and advocacy. If you or someone you know has been impacted by violence, call Center on Halsted’s Violence Resources Line (VRL) at 773.871.CARE (2273). For more information on the Anti-Violence Project at the Center on Halsted, visit http://www.centeronhalsted.org/AVP.html or email avp@centeronhalsted.org.