PHILADELPHIA – The Office of LGBT Affairs has released the following statement in response to the murder of Mar’Quis “MJ” Jackson, on December 14, 2022:
“It is with deep sadness that we now mourn the loss of yet another senseless and tragic murder of a member of our LGBTQ family. Mar’Quis was an advocate and activist in Philadelphia’s transgender community.
“His death comes just weeks after the murder of another beloved member of the city’s transgender community, Shahere “Diamond” Jackson-McDonald. These two concurrent deaths mark at least the 34th and 35th murders of transgender people in the United States in 2022 and reflect a crisis that must end.
“It is customary to use the term ‘at least’ when media report on these deaths, as too often stories go unreported or are misreported, as victims are misgendered by the media or law enforcement. As has been consistent in recent years, the majority of these murders occur to transgender people of color, and more specifically Black and Latinx transgender women.
“Let this be clear: our Office is and will always be committed to ensuring that acts of discrimination, bigotry, and hatred are never tolerated in the city of Philadelphia. We are grieving with you at this time of great sadness, and remain dedicated to achieving justice, equity, and long-lasting change for our Trans and Non-Binary residents.
“Please join our Office in solidarity as we extend our deepest sympathies to Mar’Quis’ loved ones and all members of our LGBTQ community who have been impacted by this loss. We are here to connect anyone in need of resources and support, and we will continue to work closely with our partners in the Philadelphia Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office as this developing case unfolds.”
Reporting Information Connected to the Case: Anyone with information regarding Jackson’s case can contact the Philadelphia Police Department by calling the PPD Anonymous Tipline at (215) 686-TIPS or by submitting a tip via the PPD website (phillypolice.com). Anyone who is not comfortable contacting the police can get in touch with the Office of LGBT Affairs for facilitation.