The tragic death of Valerie Summers, a pioneering Black trans woman and devoted mother from Cali, Colombia, underscores the pervasive and systemic violence faced by transgender individuals, particularly those of African descent. As the Race and Gender Coordinator for AfroResistance, Valerie was not only a trailblazer in her community but also the first Afro-trans woman to become a mother in Colombia and all of Latin America.
Her untimely passing highlights the alarming rates of violence against trans women in Colombia, as well as the broader systemic inequalities that place Black trans women at constant risk. While Valerie was not murdered, her death cannot be separated from the larger context of violence, economic injustice, and institutional neglect that disproportionately affect Black trans lives. This violence is often exacerbated by intersecting forms of discrimination, including racism, sexism, and transphobia, which collectively marginalize Black trans women and contribute to the lack of safety and support systems they need to survive.
Tragically, Valerie’s death marks the second loss of a member of AfroResistance. Before her, we mourned the passing of Shaina V. Pretel, whose life was taken in unjust and heartbreaking circumstances. These repeated tragedies underscore the severe vulnerabilities Black trans women face daily, a reality shaped by systemic violence, economic injustice, social intolerance, and the lack of accessible mental health resources. The combination of these factors places Black trans women at extreme risk, making urgent action imperative.
As a staff composed entirely of Black individuals that are directly impacted by state violence, we intimately understand the weight of these tragedies, we experience them personally, collectively and in the broader society. These losses are not abstract to us—they impact our emotional, mental, and physical well-being. They show up in our grief, in the exhaustion we carry, and in the trauma we continue to navigate as we fight for justice. More than ever, we need support to continue this work, to protect ourselves and each other, and to ensure that Valerie’s and Shaina’s legacies are not forgotten.
Valerie's death is a profound loss, not only to her family and community but also to the broader movement for racial and gender justice. It serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive protections and systemic change to address the violence and discrimination that continue to threaten the lives of Black trans women in Colombia and beyond.
We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of condolences and support from individuals and organizations worldwide. Your words and actions remind us that Valerie’s impact was far-reaching and that her fight for justice and equity was not in vain. To honor her legacy and continue the critical work she dedicated her life to, we have established The Valerie Summers Black Trans Justice & Futures Fund. This fund will provide direct support to Black trans women in crisis, ensuring they have access to housing, legal aid, healthcare, and security. It will also invest in the long-term futures of Black trans women, fostering leadership and economic empowerment. If you feel called to support this urgent work, we invite you to donate through our donation portal. Your generosity will help sustain this movement and provide critical assistance to those most vulnerable.
On behalf of the entire team at AfroResistance, we thank you for your solidarity, support, and commitment to justice. Valerie’s light and legacy will live on through our collective efforts.
She will never be forgotten.
Janvieve, Mauri, Argelis, Chevy and Jonathan
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