A transgender woman, known as Barbie, was tragically shot and killed in Chicago, Illinois, at the age of 26. Her death marks the 26th violent killing of a transgender or gender-expansive individual this year.
Barbies family is urging authorities to treat her shooting murder as a hate crime. Speaking to The Advocate, her cousin Mariyah Phillips expressed, I do feel like it was a hate crime. I want to start [bringing] awareness [that] people are really attacking that community. I want people to know that they are being attacked.
Her mother, Latoya Alexander, described Barbie as an ardent Nicki Minaj fan. Barbie had recently attended the rappers concert in Philadelphia for the second time this year. Her nickname, Barbie, was inspired by Minajs iconic persona.
Friends remember Barbie as a warm, caring person who cherished love and respect. She wanted to be loved and respected. Thats how she was. Thats one thing she didnt play about. She loved and respected people, said Trevon Pope, a close friend.
Barbies sister, Darlene Joseph, shared her heartbreak with the Windy City Times, saying, I have not fully processed that shes not here with us anymore. She was full of life, and you could feel her presence whenever she walked into a roomShe had this positive energy that could brighten anyones day.
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Redd, who loved doing hair and makeup, dreamed of starting her own business selling beauty products like lashes and wigs. She was remembered as a vibrant individual with a passion for uplifting those around her.
On the night of the shooting, Barbie was with friends in Chicagos Austin neighborhood. According to Michelle Lee, who spoke with The Advocate, a man approached their group briefly, left, and returned 30 minutes later to open fire. Barbie was struck multiple times and died at the scene, where 15 shell casings were found. Initial reports misgendered her and used her dead name, a common and hurtful misstep in media coverage of transgender individuals.
For anyone struggling with thoughts of self-harm or in need of support, The Trevor Project offers resources and a lifeline for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Reach out through the TrevorLifeline at 1-866-488-7386, or text “START” to 678678.
