US: $11,000 raised after ‘suspicious’ death of trans activist
Over $11,000 has been raised towards the funeral costs of a trans activist whose body was found behind a Dairy Queen in Anaheim.
Zoraida “Ale” Reyes was found dead last Thursday, and police are treating the death as ‘suspicious’, with indications her body could have been moved.
Despite the completion of an autopsy, no cause of death has been established, and Anaheim Police Department spokesman Bob Dunn said a toxicology report could take weeks to be completed.
A vigil was held on Friday in memory of Reyes, who was a renowned local trans activist, where people brought signs reading “trans lives matter” and “transgender liberation”.
The 28-year-old’s mother, Macrina Reyes, said: “I haven’t seen her… and I still don’t believe it.
“I didn’t know the family my daughter had, but I thank you. I know she’s here uniting us.”
Activist Alexa Vasquez said: “I’m sad my friend had to die in order for us to come together. When I see you guys marching, I wish that I saw my friend walking with you.”
A fund towards covering Reyes’ burial costs has so far raised over $11,000 (£6500).
A statement on the page reads: “We are deeply saddened by the news that one of our Trans-Sisters Zoraida Reyes was a victim of violence.
“Those of you who knew Zoraida know that she was a loving girl, one that was always calm, a bit shy and wore a smile in her face when surrounded by loved ones. She was always sweet and willing to help in any way that she could.
“Zoraida always gave back to her community by advocating for Trans-Rights as well as the rights of the rest of the LGBTQ community.
“May she be in a better place, We love you and miss you greatly amiga.”
