Kiwi Herring was a Black trans woman from St. Louis. She died after being shot by police at 8 AM on Tuesday, August 22 outside an apartment complex. Police were responding to a domestic call.

According to police, Kiwi had a knife when they entered the apartment in response to the call. She allegedly slashed one of the responding officers who fired on her, leaving her dead at the scene.

Kiwi’s friends attending a vigil in the Forest Park later that evening disputed the police account, saying there was no evidence she was armed. They also objected to Kiwi being misgendered and misnamed by police and the media. According to self-identified friends on Facebook, Kiwi had three young children and had been allegedly dealing with ongoing harassment from neighbors in her apartment building.

A vigil is planned tonight in New York City and in Chicago on Saturday

Kiwi is the 18th trans person killed this year and the 17th trans woman of color.

It is unclear at this time what if any of the details about her death are true, but it is a truth that she is dead at the hands of police. It is true that the St. Louis media seems to have no idea how to respond accurately and responsibly on a story involving a transgender person. It is true that Kiwi’s story is not unique.

Rest in power, Kiwi. You deserved to live in peace. In death, you continue to deserve dignity and respect for your true identity.

The list of trans people killed in 2017 thus far.

Resources in Western Pennsylvania that can use your donation to support black trans women and/or offer supports & services to those who need them. This list is not comprehensive. TransPride Pittsburgh is an umbrella group and the best lead for referrals to other organizations. If you are in another region, use Google to find local trans resources.