Alabama Equality demands justice following Black transgender woman’s death

In a tragic incident that has shaken the Tuscaloosa community, an 18-year-old Black transgender woman, Cameron Jamal Miikquise Thompson, was found fatally shot on Monday, December 16, 2024. Authorities discovered her body around 1 p.m. in the 600 block of East 35th Avenue, with multiple gunshot wounds.

A juvenile suspect has been arrested and charged with murder in connection with Thompson’s death. Despite being charged as an adult, the suspect’s identity remains undisclosed due to their age. According to Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit Capt. Jack Kennedy, the suspect may have been motivated by comments Thompson posted on social media regarding their sexual orientation, raising concerns about potential bias behind this heinous act.

Thompson, who was known as “Cam Marie” to loved ones, had recently graduated from Job Corps and was employed at UPS. She lived with her mother and 16-year-old brother, who are now left grieving the loss of a bright, loving young woman. Family members reported that she left their home around 1 a.m. on Monday, carrying only her cell phone. By 4 p.m., concerned for her safety, they filed a missing persons report and learned shortly after that a body matching her description had been found hours earlier.

Alabama Equality, a statewide organization advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, expressed profound sorrow over Thompson’s death. In a statement, the organization said: “Alabama Equality is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Cam Marie. Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We stand in solidarity with them and hope for justice, peace, and healing in the wake of this devastating event.”

The organization further emphasized the systemic challenges faced by transgender individuals, particularly Black transgender women. “This senseless crime serves as a painful reminder of the violence and discrimination that too many people, especially Black LGBTQ youth, face. It is a tragedy that no family should ever have to endure.”

Alabama Equality urged supporters to contribute to Black trans-led organizations such as Take BHM and TKO Society, which work to empower marginalized communities. The organization also encouraged donations to a GoFundMe campaign established to assist Thompson’s family with burial expenses, highlighting that “every contribution helps bring comfort and assistance to those grieving.”

This incident underscores the ongoing violence against transgender individuals in the United States. According to a 2024 report by the Human Rights Campaign:

• Seventy-seven percent of transgender and gender-expansive people killed through violent means were people of color.
• Fifty-three percent were Black transgender women.
• Sixty percent were killed with a gun.
• Forty percent were misgendered or deadnamed by authorities or the press.

Thompson’s family believes her murder was a hate crime, a sentiment echoed by advocates nationwide. As investigations continue, her death serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the violence and discrimination faced by transgender individuals, particularly Black transgender women.

The Tuscaloosa community mourns the loss of a young life full of potential, while organizations like Alabama Equality call for justice and action to prevent further tragedies.