The man accused of murdering a Black trans woman in Chicago is standing trial more than eight years after her death, in a case that campaigners say highlights the continuing violence faced by trans communities.
Prosecutors allege that 25-year-old Tremon Hill lured Dejanay Stanton into an alley in Chicago's Bronzeville neighbourhood before shooting her in the head in August 2018 because he did not want others to know he had been involved with a trans woman. Hill denies the charge.
Opening the case this week, Assistant State's Attorney Jennifer Cooper described Stanton as a woman who was "living her life on her own terms" and "living her life as the person she wanted to be".
Stanton's mother, Valerie Griffin, told the court her daughter had begun transitioning at around the age of 11 and was supported by her family. She said Stanton was known for helping other trans women, often offering a safe place to stay to those who had been rejected by their own families.
"She was a beautiful soul," Griffin said. "She always tried to help people."
Stanton was found dead in an alley on 30 August 2018. According to prosecutors, Hill had been involved with Stanton before allegedly arranging a meeting that ended in her death. Hill was initially charged in the case as a teenager.
The trial comes amid ongoing concerns about violence against trans people in the United States. The Human Rights Campaign has recorded nearly 400 fatal attacks against trans and gender non-conforming people since 2013, with almost 60% of victims identified as Black trans women.
Advocates say the case remains a painful reminder of the risks faced by trans women, particularly Black trans women, and the need for stronger protections and support.
Elizabeth Payne, legal director of the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation, said violence against trans people remains "a serious issue within the community" and one that requires wider public attention.
Members of Stanton's family attended court as proceedings got underway before Cook County Judge Pamela Stratigakis. A jury will now hear evidence in the long-running case.
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