Pgh Lesbian Correspondents

Bree Black was 27 years old when she was murdered in Pompano Beach, Florida on Friday, July 3, 2020 around 10 pm. According to some sources, she was outside her home.

At approximately 10:18 p.m. July 3, Broward County Regional Communications received a call in regard to a shooting at 244 N.W. 12th Street in Pompano Beach. BSO deputies responded and located the victim,  on the ground with an apparent gunshot wound.

Bree is the 19th violent death of a transgender person in the US during 2020. She is the 5th Black trans woman known to be murdered in the past 30 days. She is the second Floridian on the list, both Black transgender neighbors.

**19 may not be accurate. I am looking into the reported homicides of two other Black trans women this past week as well. A horrible caveat indeed.

Police have not yet released information about the suspect or suspects. I also do not have information about vigils or final arrangements. Lack of media coverage of Bree’s death or the recent two deaths in Louisiana create a quandary about providing accurate information. I was led to believe that Bree’s deadname was her preferred name and so I deadnamed her unintentionally. I will address how we are in danger of that happening more often in another post. In this case, Bree’s family used her deadname and so the police followed suit.

I am so very sorry, Bree, that I caused more harm and trauma around your tragic death. I am so very sorry to Bree’s friends and neighbors and all of my trans neighbors, I am sorry.

As we contemplate our Independence Day and the myriad of recent events, take a moment to think about the realities trans neighbors, especially Black and non-Black women of color face. It is the first week of July and we have met or exceeded (see above) the reported homicides from 2019. That’s one indicator. Imagine when we have data on covid, unemployment. housing injustice, and more.

Rest in power, Bree. You deserved a life filled with respect, appreciation, and love. Your friends, family, and neighbors will continue to seek justice in your name.