A recent murder in Detroit has started a conversation about violence against transgender women in the United States. Amber Monroe was shot to death near Six Mile Road and Woodward Avenue on August 8, one of at least a dozen transgender women of color in the U.S. to be killed this year. Lilianna Reyes is the Youth Program Manager for Affirmations in Ferndale. She tells WDET’s Pat Batcheller that racism adds to the hatred transgender women often face because of their identity.Click on the audio player to hear the conversation.

Affirmations works with other agencies to advocate for LGBTQ rights and safety. Below are a few you can contact for more information:

The ACLU of Michigan’s LGBT Rights project 2966 Woodward Ave., Detroit (313) 578-6800

Equality Michigan 19641 W. Seven Mile Rd., Detroit (313) 537-7000