Statement on Tragic Death of Monika Diamond
NORTH CAROLINA – In response to the slaying of Monika Diamond, the National Black Justice Coalition released the following statements:
Monika Diamond, a 34-year-old Black trans woman was co-owner and founder of Ncphyne Promotion Company LLC and co-CEO of the International Mother of the Year Pageantry System, a pageant that honors LGBTQ mothers. Like most Black women, cis and trans, Monika held space for and ensured our community was safe.
On March 18, 2020 Charlotte, North Carolina paramedics responded to a disturbance call. Upon arrival, Ms. Diamond was found with breathing difficulties. While first responders were preparing to treat her inside the ambulance, a Black cis male identified as 32-year-old Prentice Bess attempted to enter the emergency vehicle but was turned away. Moments later he returned and shot Monika Diamond several times. Bess was arrested at the scene and is currently being held at Meckleburg County’s Detention Center on the following charges: breaking or entering of a motor vehicle, larceny of a firearm and murder.
Black LGBTG/SGL people are often on the front lines of social justice efforts that benefit others. It’s important for us to stand with all of the members of our beautifully diverse community to ensure that we can all exist without fear of threat or actual harm. Monika Diamond deserves justice. All Black Lives Matter.
Call to Action: Support justice for Monika Diamond
by calling to demand a fair, complete, and public investigation:
Meckleburg County’s Police Chief Kerr Putney:
(704) 336-2338
Charlotte Mayor’s Office of Vi Lyles:
(704) 336-2241
