In a harrowing incident that has captured the attention and concern of the transgender community and its allies, a 29-year-old Black transgender woman suffered life-altering injuries last month when she was thrown onto subway tracks in Manhattan. The attack, allegedly by her boyfriend, resulted in the amputation of her legs and highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by transgender individuals in society.
On March 9, at the Fulton Street station, the woman, who prefers to remain anonymous, was pushed onto the tracks by her boyfriend, 35-year-old Christian Valdez, during an argument. According to a recent Instagram Live interview with trans activist Hope Giselle, the victim was on her way to a gender-affirming treatment appointment when the confrontation escalated. Despite her efforts to seek help from bystanders and security cameras, she was brutally attacked and subsequently trapped under an oncoming train.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office has charged Valdez with second-degree attempted murder and first-degree assault. Valdez, who had a history of violent behavior and had been released on parole in January 2023 after serving time for a previous offense, was apprehended after fleeing to New Jersey shortly after the attack.
The victim recounted her terrifying experience with remarkable clarity, describing how she screamed for help while trapped and severely injured under the train. Her physical injuries are severe: one leg was amputated below the knee, the other above the knee, she also suffered broken ribs and a blood clot in her lung.
In response to this devastating event, Bridget Daniels, a friend of the victim, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover the significant medical and rehabilitation costs, as well as to secure permanent accessible housing for the victim. The campaign has so far raised nearly $49,000 of its $75,000 goal, reflecting a wave of support from the community and beyond.
The incident underscores the disproportionate risks faced by transgender individuals, particularly trans women of color, who frequently encounter both physical and sexual violence. Data from the Human Rights Campaign reveals that over 50% of trans adults have experienced sexual assault, and many suffer from societal rejection and familial estrangement.
These statistics are not just numbers; they represent the lived experiences of individuals within the trans community, like Nekia Zulu, a 23-year-old trans woman in New York, who shared her perspective: “We’re not seen as human beings. They were taught to hate us.” This sentiment is echoed by many in the community who face constant threats to their safety and well-being.
The incident and its aftermath have ignited discussions about the need for increased protection and understanding for transgender people. Trans activist Cienna Rosalina spoke about the broader implications of such violence, highlighting the lack of love and acceptance that many trans youths endure. The overwhelming response to the fundraising campaign, however, demonstrates a strong community resolve to support and uplift those who are victimized.
As the legal process against Valdez unfolds, the community continues to rally around the victim, offering support and advocating for a safer environment for all transgender people. The case not only highlights the urgent need for societal change but also the resilience of a community determined to fight for dignity and safety for every member.
Instances like these painfully remind us that while progress has been made, there is still a considerable journey ahead towards achieving true equality and safety for transgender individuals. The community’s response, however, provides a beacon of hope and solidarity, demonstrating the powerful impact of collective action and empathy in the face of adversity.
The GoFundMe link is https://www.gofundme.com/f/justice-for-black-dv-survivor-in-mta-incident.
