CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - With candles in their hands and memories in their hearts, hundreds of mourners gathered in Andersonville Sunday to remember the life of Elise Malary.
“It saddens us that Elise is now our ancestor, joining the fierce femmes who came before her," said one woman.
"I really hope Elise's name continues to be said and remembered way after today," added KJ Whitehead.
Malary, who was described as an advocate for the local LGBTQ+ community as a Black trans woman, was found dead in Lake Michigan last Thursday.
Her body was identified by Evanston Police on Saturday.
Investigators have said they don’t suspect foul play, prompting community members like Alderman Andre Vasquez to share a message of advocacy.
"I want all of you all to understand if you ever have any situation where you have any doubts or you're going through anything, tell somebody something," said Vasquez.
Other messages were written in chalk alongside the brick wall of the Women & Children First bookstore, reading 'Black trans women deserve more' and 'we love and miss you'.
Last year, at least nine trans people died in Chicago, according to the Brave Space Alliance. The organization’s spokesperson, Jae Rice, said that with Elise Malary’s death, there have been four deaths so far this year.
Brave Space Alliance is now raising money for an already-established fund that helps pay funeral expenses for trans people.
“It started off as something we did for one specific person, but realized that every year it becomes the deadliest year for trans people, especially Black trans people,” Rice said.
“It’s sad that we have to do this. But with the lack of actual resources from the city and state, trans people are at risk. So, we anticipate deaths.”
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