FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The TransLatin@ Coalition Extends Profound Gratitude to Partners and Community Allies Following a Press Conference Addressing Bomb Threat
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, April 16, 2024 — In the wake of a recent bomb threat targeting our organization, The TransLatin@ Coalition extends its sincerest gratitude to the remarkable individuals and organizations who stood in solidarity with us during yesterday's press conference. The outpouring of support and solidarity underscores the collective commitment to safeguarding the safety and well-being of the transgender, gender nonconforming, and intersex (TGI) community in California, particularly in the vibrant city of Los Angeles.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the following speakers, entities, and the media for their unwavering support and presence at the press conference:
Robin Toma, L.A. County Commission on Human Relations, Executive Director.
Jury Candelario, Health and Human Services Director, APAIT.
Esther Lim, Justice Deputy, Los Angeles County Supervisor, Hilda Solis.
Blake Chow, LAPD Assistant Chief.
Ruby Flores, LAPD Deputy Chief.
Marc Beaart, Director of Fraud & Corruption Prosecutions, L.A. County District Attorney's Office.
Marianna Marroquin, The TransWellness Center, Associate Director.
Capri Maddox, L.A. Civil + Human Rights and Equity Executive Director.
Their presence and words of solidarity serve as a beacon of hope and resilience during these challenging times. We are deeply moved by their unwavering commitment to fostering a safer and more inclusive society for all.
Assistant Chief Blake Chow of the Los Angeles Police Department shared details of the case, including the suspect was arrested last week, and the L.A. County District Attorney's office has filed one count of criminal threats with a hate crime enhancement against him.
In her impassioned remarks, Bamby Salcedo, President/CEO of The TransLatin@ Coalition, eloquently captured the moment's urgency, stating, "We need to do better to ensure that trans people are integrated into the tapestry of our society. We need to do better to make sure that there are resources to support the livelihood of our community. We need to do better in accepting the reality that trans people exist."
Salcedo's powerful words resonate deeply, reminding us of the profound importance of unity and advocacy in the face of adversity. As she aptly stated, "Every day a trans woman steps out of her home, it is a revolutionary act. We are people who walk with targets on our backs."
The impact of these crimes extends far beyond mere statistics, touching the lives of individuals and communities in ways that cannot be fully quantified. Yet, through our collective resilience and determination, we will continue to push forward, striving for a world where everyone can live free from fear and discrimination.
The TransLatin@ Coalition remains steadfast in its commitment to serving and uplifting the TGI community, and we are profoundly grateful for the ongoing support of our partners and allies. We will continue to stand united in pursuing justice, equity, and dignity for all.
If you or anyone you know has experienced hate or violence, you can report your incident by calling 211 or visiting LAvsHate.org.
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The TransLatin@ Coalition (TLC) is a national organization celebrating its 15th anniversary of advocating for the rights, empowerment, and well-being of Transgender, Gender nonconforming, and Intersex (TGI) Latinx in the United States. Through advocacy, education, and community organizing, TLC works to address the unique challenges and systemic injustices faced by TGI individuals, with a focus on race and economics.