The National Black Justice Coalition Mourns the Death of Tasiyah “Siyah” Woodland
CONTACT: Brett Abrams | brett@unbendablemedia.com
MECHANICSVILLE, MD- The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) mourns the death of Tasiyah “Siyah” Woodland, an 18-year-old Black transgender woman. She was shot and killed on March 24, 2023, near a bar in Mechanicsville, Maryland. Police have arrested a man in connection with her death, who faces charges including first and second-degree murder.
Tasiyah’s family described her as high-spirited and protective of those she loved. She was a joy to be around, who loved being around her family and ensuring they knew they were loved.
“I am devastated to learn about the death of another trans sister,” said Victoria Kirby York, Director of Public Policy and Programs. “I am glad to see police took action quickly and that the PFLAG of Southern Maryland worked with police to ensure Tasiyah was treated with dignity in her death and her name and gender identity were respected. It is essential that local media and police do their due diligence to ensure they are using the correct name and pronouns of trans victims as it also allows public safety officials to better investigate and solve these crimes.”
“Today, on Transgender Day of Visibility, and in the face of increased anti-trans rhetoric, it is essential that we acknowledge the violence our trans siblings face in their everyday life and recommit to efforts to end this epidemic so that they are able to flourish and thrive. We all must continue to fight against anti-trans legislation and other actions that work to normalize transphobia.”
Tasiyah Woodland is the 8th transgender person to be killed in 2023.
Her family has set up a GoFundMe to help cover funeral expenses. You can donate HERE.
Learn more about reducing gender-based violence here and here.
Look here to learn more about changing local laws and increasing protections for trans and non-binary community members.
The NBJC Stolen Lives list of trans and non-binary individuals lost to violence and hate can be found here.
