05/19/2026
Our trans and nonbinary neighbors are integral parts of our communities—our family, friends, colleagues. In the wake of the murder of Juniper Blessing, the trans University of Washington student who was killed last week, I have heard heartbreak and fear from trans and nonbinary community members. My heart is with them and especially with Juniper’s family and loved ones.
While we do not currently have confirmation of the exact motive for this horrifying and tragic event, there is a clear and appalling history in our society of violence against trans individuals. It comes at a time when many of our country’s political and cultural leaders are increasingly targeting the trans community with vitriol and hate, giving others license to model their abhorrent rhetoric and behavior. Recent data has shown an increase in hate and bias crimes against the LGBTQIA+ community, with GLAAD reporting a 14% increase in incidents targeting trans and gender-nonconforming people between 2023 and 2024.
There should be no place in our community for baseless, ignorant hate that leads to discrimination, harm, and violence. I stand with and for the trans community, always, unapologetically, unequivocally.
If you need support, resources are available for the LGBTQIA+ community throughout King County, including Pride Across the Bridge, Lambert House, Lavender Rights Project, and more. Please seek out the help and care you need right now and know that I am fully committed to doing everything in my power to make King County safe and welcoming for everyone.
