Storytelling is Solidarity #NaBloPoMo #TDOR

Trans Day of Remembrance 2016

Today, we acknowledge and commemorate the lives of our trans siblings & neighbors who have lost their lives to violence this past year via the Trans Day of Remembrance #TDOR. Since early 2013, I have tried diligently to write one blog post for each person so I can use a proper photo, use their lived […]

Amplifying Trans Voices in Western Pennsylvania in Honor of the Trans Day of Remembrance

Trans Day of Remembrance 2016

Sunday, November 20 is the Trans Day of Remembrance.  If you read our blog regularly, you know that we try very hard to honor the lives and acknowledge the deaths of our trans neighbors who have been lost to violence. We encourage you to participate in local TDOR events. You can find our previous posts: […]

Final Arrangements for Dalia Sabae UPDATED

Dalia Sabae

These are the final arrangements for Dalia Sabae as organized by her family. She will be buried in Canonsburg. Memorial donations are suggested to the women’s shelter of your choice. To learn more about Dalia and why I am sharing, please read this post.  I have spoken with one of Dalia’s friends who lives in Pittsburgh. […]

Her Name Was Dalia Sabae

Dalia Sabae

Her name was Dalia Elhefny Sabae. She was 28 years old. She was born in Egypt, spent some time living in Moscow and has lived in the United States. According to her Facebook and LinkedIN pages, Dalia was fluent in three languages – American English · Français ·Arabic and proficient in three others – Hebrew, Spanish and Russian. Arabic was her native language. She was also bisexual, interested in both men and women.

Dalia was a dancer. She had been an instructor and worked various jobs as she pursued her education. She earned a pharmacy degree in 2011 and was working on a master’s program through Washington & Jefferson College near her home. Dalia was a pharmacy intern at the time of her death.

30 Year Old TWOC Noony Norwood of Richmond Murdered Over Weekend

30 year old Noony Norwood was shot to death in Richmond, Virginia on Saturday, November 5, 2016. She died of her injuries the next morning. She is remembered with love by her friends and chosen family. ‘Noony’s energy always brightened the room. She cared about her community and always lifted up and supported her friends […]

Vi, 24, Is Very Concerned About Trans Health Issues in Pittsburgh #AMPLIFY

Trans Pittsburgh

How would you describe yourself NOW in terms of “being out”? I’m personally very open about my sexuality and my gender identity. I will say that being trans is so much harder than being bi. I never want to look masculine in public or private in any way, and would probably live in stealth if I was visually able. I have struggled more after coming out as trans and living my life than I have ever before. It’s extremely disheartening to get turned down from every job since, and be stared at every day.

Trans Woman Accused of Attempted Homicide in Western Pennsylvania

Claire Wolfever

22 year old Claire Wolfever, a trans woman from Sharon, was arraigned today on charges related to opening fire on a coworker at the Walmart in Hermitage, Pennsylvania. Claire is charged with two counts of attempted murder and aggravated assault, theft, having a firearm without a license and reckless endangerment related to the shooting incident […]

Mitch, 27, Describes Life in Butler County as a Gay Man #AMPLIFY

Butler County Gay

Have you ever experienced discrimination based on your identity? Specifically, in a job setting, when applying for housing or while in public. While living in Butler, whether past or present, it is not safe to be a member of the LGBTQ+ community or perceived to be a member. When living in Butler, I received threats, was harassed, had my car vandalized and have been physically harmed as a result of being gay and prior to coming out, for being perceived as a gay person. I think a mistake is being made if people deny a problem exists. Just because someone says something does not exists, doesn’t mean it doesn’t.

Kierra Darshell is Pittsburgh’s First Lady of Drag #AMPLIFY

Kierra Darshell

How do you describe your identity? Black gay man and female impersonator

Please describe your coming out experience. Where did you find support? What challenges did you face? It was hard being the only son but my Mother was very supportive and my Father wasn’t at first but with time he was much better accepting he had a gay son.

How would you describe yourself NOW in terms of “being out”? Fabulous and truly living in my truth!

Alexa, 22, Talks About Acceptance as a Bisexual Woman #AMPLIFY

How would you describe yourself NOW in terms of “being out”? I wouldn’t say I’m fully out but I’m working on it. If I’m talking to people and they ask if I’m seeing anyone I am nervous at first to say I have a girlfriend but I do and I am proud of myself after. I need to get past my concerns on what other people think of me. I need to work on what I think of me. We are “official” on social media and both our families know also.