December 21st 2024.
Nikki Matthews-Cunningham is a grieving mother, mourning the loss of her beloved daughter, Cameron Thompson. Her 18-year-old daughter was tragically shot and killed in Alabama on December 16th. In a heartbreaking interview with the Associated Press, Matthews-Cunningham shared her belief that her daughter's death was a hate crime, targeted because of her gender identity.
It was in the early hours of Monday morning when Cameron's life was taken. Her body was discovered later that afternoon, just a few blocks away from her home. The Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit, led by Captain Jack Kennedy, confirmed that Matthews-Cunningham strongly believes her daughter was killed because of her gender identity.
Speaking to the Associated Press, Matthews-Cunningham expressed her conviction, saying, "Of course it was a hate crime." She went on to suggest that if Cameron had not been transgender, the suspect would not have lured her out of her home and taken her life. It is a painful reality for Matthews-Cunningham to face, knowing that her daughter's choice to be true to herself may have ultimately led to her death.
Captain Kennedy revealed that Cameron was acquainted with the suspect and had even posted on social media about his sexual orientation before her tragic passing. Despite being under 18, the suspect will be charged as an adult for Cameron's murder.
Unfortunately, Alabama is one of only nine states that do not legally recognize sexual orientation or gender identity as a basis for hate crimes. This narrow definition has drawn attention to the intersectionality between race and gender identity, as highlighted by the fact that more than half of the 36 transgender individuals who died from violence in the past year were Black transgender women.
Carmarion D. Anderson-Harvey, the Alabama director for the Human Rights Campaign, expressed her sorrow over Cameron's death, saying, "Her life mattered. Her dreams, her light, and her limitless potential were stolen far too soon." She called for a thorough and transparent investigation to bring some measure of justice for Cameron's loved ones.
Matthews-Cunningham shared with the AP that her daughter was just beginning her journey in life. She had plans to move to New York City and attend college before her life was cut short. "She was just starting her life," Matthews-Cunningham said, her voice filled with emotion. "She struggled with people not wanting to accept her for who she was. But she was such a good person."
The loss of Cameron Thompson is a tragic reminder of the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by the transgender community, especially Black transgender women. As we mourn her death, let us also strive to create a world where everyone can be accepted and loved for who they are.
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