Book and comic reviews, and more from Amy Walker, a trans, disabled writer and reviewer from the UK.
Monday, 27 June 2016
Trans Person Attacked After Orlando Vigil
A Seattle trans advocate was attacked and beaten after leaving the 'Let Your Love Shine' fundraiser event for the victims of the Orlando Pulse Massacre.
Michael Volz, who uses the pronouns they and them, was returning to their vehicle when they were approached by a stranger. The man reportedly said 'Happy Pride' before chocking and beating Michael to the floor before kicking them in the abdomen.
The attacker reportedly also said 'Show me your tits you tranny cunt' whilst he attacked them.
After the attacker left the scene Michael managed to drive themselves home, where friends insisted that they go to the ER. Michael was treated for cuts, abrasions and bruising as well as having several stitches. They are also reporting injured teeth and vision impairment due to the attack.
Seattle Police Department have spoken out about the incident and are treating it as a hate crime. 'I'm disgusted by this hateful attack,' Chief Kathleen O'Toole said. 'I want to assure the victim and the community that the SPD will leverage every resource to identify the suspect and bring him to justice.'
Michael's friends set up a GoFundMe page to raise awareness and support. 'The emotional devastation and the injuries they have endured is so deep there are no words to describe,' the GoFundMe described. 'Michael wants us to attach pictures because this is what transphobia looks like.' So far the page has raised over $35,000.
Michael has spoken out about the incident, saying 'This is not an isolated incident....this is something that happens in our community frequently, and we won't stand for it.'
Amy.
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LGBT News
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