Transgender individuals experience significantly higher rates of both assault and murder compared to cisgender individuals.
Here's a breakdown of the issue:
1. Disproportionate Victimization:
Transgender people are over four times more likely to be victims of violent crime than cisgender people.
2. Elevated Risk of Fatal Violence:
Homicide rates for transgender individuals, especially young Black and Latina trans women, are disproportionately high.
Between 2017 and 2021, murders of trans people in the U.S. nearly doubled, with a 93% increase in tracked homicides.
3. Impact of Discrimination and Marginalization:
Transgender individuals often face discrimination in housing, employment, and healthcare, leading to increased vulnerability to violence.
A significant percentage of transgender homicide victims experience homelessness or housing insecurity.
4. Role of Firearms:
Gun violence is a major factor in the high rates of fatal violence against transgender people.
In 2023, guns were used in 80% of homicides of transgender and gender-expansive people.
5. Disproportionate Impact on Transgender Women of Color:
Black transgender women are particularly vulnerable, facing the highest rates of fatal violence within the transgender community.
Over 60% of gun homicides of transgender and gender-expansive people from 2017 to 2023 were of Black trans women.
6. Intimate Partner and Family Violence:
A significant portion of transgender homicide victims are killed by intimate partners or family members.
In Conclusion:
The data demonstrates that transgender individuals face a severe and disproportionate risk of assault and murder, highlighting the urgent need to address violence and discrimination against this community.