In the early hours of September 27, a devastating scene awaited the staff of Baltimore Safe Haven, the city’s only transgender-led, drop-in wellness facility. The nonprofit organization, a beacon of hope and support for the LGBTQIA+ community, had been vandalized and robbed, marking the third such attack in two years.
Renee Lau, the administrative assistant and senior projects coordinator for Baltimore Safe Haven, arrived at the facility on North Charles Street that morning to meet a plumber. What she found instead was a heartbreaking sight that would bring her to the verge of tears.
“I couldn’t open the basement door,” Lau recalled. “They had ransacked the basement and pushed everything against the door. I had to force it open, and once inside, it was a disaster.”
Intruders had broken through the back door, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. They stole a computer and harm reduction materials—items essential to the organization’s mission of promoting safer sex and drug use practices. The vandals splashed pink paint across the walls and scrawled derogatory words, adding a layer of malicious intent to the act. In a final act of disrespect, they urinated on the floor.
A Targeted Attack
The facility’s van, crucial for distributing naloxone, syringes, condoms, and other harm reduction supplies, was also ransacked. “When you take from us, you’re taking from the community as well,” Lau emphasized. “We’re a nonprofit, and everything we have is either a donation or a grant. The way they vandalized—it was something malicious.”
Baltimore City Police responded to the scene after receiving a report of property destruction. The incident is being investigated as a burglary and theft. Given the nature of the vandalism, many people in the neighborhood believe it was a hate-motivated attack rather than a random act.
The Ripple Effect on the Community
Baltimore Safe Haven serves as more than just a facility; it’s a lifeline for many transgender and LGBTQIA+ individuals in the area. The center provides emergency housing, groceries, hot meals through mobile outreach, HIV testing, and essential harm reduction materials. With the facility temporarily closed, these critical services are now on hold.
“We can’t afford to have these things happen, not only monetarily but for the community as well,” Lau stated. “It’s devastating for everybody.”
The repeated attacks have left many feeling vulnerable. This latest incident underscores the increasing challenges faced by transgender and LGBTQIA+ communities, who are frequently targeted simply for existing. The rise in such hate-filled attacks is often linked to inflammatory political rhetoric that marginalizes these communities.
A Pattern of Violence
This is the third time in two years that Baltimore Safe Haven has been vandalized. Each incident chips away at the sense of security and well-being of the community it serves. “It’s very discouraging sometimes,” Lau admitted. “Because everything we do is community-based, everything.”
The pattern of violence against LGBTQIA+ organizations is not isolated to Baltimore. Nationwide, there has been an uptick in hate crimes targeting these communities. Such acts not only damage property but also send a chilling message intended to intimidate and silence.
Resilience and Determination
Despite the emotional and physical toll, the team at Baltimore Safe Haven remains resolute. “As a professional and advocate for the transgender community, I am deeply hurt by the recent events,” said Executive Director Iya Dammons in a statement. “However, our resilience and strength lie within our community. We will not be deterred by discrimination, hatred, or attacks. Our commitment to healing and supporting each other remains unwavering.”
Cleanup and repairs are expected to take significant time and resources. Yet, the organization is committed to reopening and continuing its vital work. “We are determined to rebuild,” Lau affirmed. “The community depends on us, and we won’t let them down.”
Community Support and Call to Action
In response to the incident, Baltimore Safe Haven has launched a GoFundMe campaign. The funds will help replace stolen items, repair damages, and enhance security measures to prevent future attacks. The organization is calling on allies and supporters to stand with them during this challenging time.
“Your support means the world to us,” Dammons expressed. “Every donation, every share, every word of encouragement helps us move forward.”
For those unable to contribute financially, spreading awareness is equally important. Sharing the organization’s story can help galvanize community support and bring attention to the broader issues of hate crimes and discrimination faced by transgender and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
The Broader Context of Hate Crimes
The attack on Baltimore Safe Haven is a stark reminder of the pervasive challenges faced by the transgender and LGBTQIA+ community. According to recent studies, hate crimes against these groups have been on the rise, frequently as a result of divisive political discourse that dehumanizes and stigmatizes.
Such rhetoric not only emboldens individuals to commit acts of violence but also creates an environment where discrimination is normalized. This climate of hostility has tangible effects on the mental and physical well-being of LGBTQIA+ individuals.
For transgender and LGBTQIA+ individuals, their families, and allies, the incident serves as a call to action. It’s a reminder of the importance of solidarity, advocacy, and support for organizations that provide essential services to marginalized communities.
“Now more than ever, we need to come together,” Lau urged. “We must stand against hate and show that love and compassion will always prevail.”
Despite the setback, Baltimore Safe Haven is looking ahead. Plans are underway not only to repair the damage but also to strengthen the organization’s capacity to serve the community. Enhancing security measures will be a priority to ensure the safety of both staff and those who rely on the center’s services.
“We’re not just rebuilding walls; we’re reinforcing hope,” Dammons said. “Our doors may be temporarily closed, but our hearts remain open.”
How You Can Help
Supporting Baltimore Safe Haven can take many forms:
- Donations: Contributing to their GoFundMe campaign will directly assist in recovery efforts.
- Volunteering: Offering time and skills can alleviate the burden on staff and expedite the reopening.
- Advocacy: Speaking out against hate crimes and discriminatory rhetoric helps create a safer environment for all.
- Education: Informing oneself and others about the challenges faced by the transgender and LGBTQIA+ community fosters understanding and acceptance.
In the face of adversity, Baltimore Safe Haven embodies resilience and determination. The organization’s unwavering commitment to its mission serves as an inspiration to many.
“We may have been knocked down, but we are far from defeated,” Lau declared. “Our community is strong, and together, we will rise above this.”
The Bottom Line
The attack on Baltimore Safe Haven is not just an isolated incident but a reflection of broader societal issues that demand attention and action. As we stand with Baltimore Safe Haven, we affirm our commitment to fostering a world where everyone can live authentically without fear of violence or discrimination.
For transgender and LGBTQIA+ individuals, their families, and allies, this is a moment to unite, support one another, and advocate for change. By lifting each other up, we can transform tragedy into an opportunity for growth and solidarity.
Join the Conversation
Baltimore Safe Haven encourages community members to share their stories, express their support, and stay informed about the organization’s progress. Follow them on social media, participate in community events, and continue to be allies in the fight against hate.
About Baltimore Safe Haven
Baltimore Safe Haven is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing opportunities and resources to transgender, lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, intersex, and asexual individuals in Baltimore. Their services include emergency housing, harm reduction materials, HIV testing, and a range of programs designed to empower and uplift the community.
For more information or to make a donation, visit their official website or GoFundMe page.
