Illinois Moms Demand Action, Everytown Respond to Fatal Shooting of Transgender Woman in Chicago

CHICAGO – The Illinois chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, part of Everytown for Gun Safety, released the following statement in response to the shooting death of a transgender woman in Chicago yesterday. According to reports, Dejanay Stanton, originally identified as Jane Doe, was found with a gunshot wound to the head Thursday afternoon. She was later identified by friends through social media.

There have been at least 17 transgender people killed nationwide this year; with 12 being killed by gun violence. Of the trans victims killed with a gun, nearly two-thirds were women of color. 2017 was the deadliest year on record for the transgender community in the United States, with at least 28 trans homicides. 20 trans people were killed with a gun last year, 17 of those shot and killed were trans women of color.

STATEMENT FROM VALERIE SIMUTIS, VOLUNTEER WITH THE ILLINOIS CHAPTER OF MOMS DEMAND ACTION FOR GUN SENSE IN AMERICA:

“Our hearts break for the family and friends of Dejanay Stanton, and we offer our condolences during this difficult time. It’s painful to see another life cut short by gun violence, but it’s a reminder that there is still work to be done. We must work to protect every single member of our community, especially those who are disproportionately affected by gun violence.”