What should local leaders do to address the crisis of transphobic violence?

"Embark on an educational campaign to let everyone know that trans lives are valued. Public education is of the utmost importance. I’d rather focus on education, not punishment. When it comes time for punishment, it’s too late."

"Mayor Nutter needs to rev up the police so they respond to trans violence with a sense of urgency. I knew several trans people who were murdered. And the police gave the impression [that] they could care less. The next mayor should also rev up the police. It’s very important."

"The next mayor should visit all of the city’s middle schools and impress upon students the importance of treating everybody with respect, especially trans people of color. This [transphobic violence] has gone on unaddressed for long enough."

"City officials should hold a press conference and make a strong statement against hate crimes. Let people know the city is going to take everything
seriously. And they should make clear that perpetrators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."