PRIDE 2021: Unique Women's Coalition empowers Black Transgender community

One local organization has been helping those in the Black Transgender community for more than 20 years: the Unique Women's Coalition. Their goal is to empower a community that is too often targeted by hate.

Queen Shannon is passionate about being a voice for the voiceless in the transgender community.

"We are resource hub. We are designed to service the Trans and non-binary community," said Queen Shannon.

UWC was founded in 1997 looking to empower black Trans people. Queen Shannon says too many people in her community are targeted by hate. The group tracks transgender victims killed worldwide.

"Collect data of our fallen siblings that has been murdered, to violence, or hate crimes, worldwide. We acknowledge our community members as brother and sisters," said Queen Shannon. "Since January 2021, we have had a total of 24 Trans and non-binary siblings who have died to cruel acts of violence."

Chela Demuir founded UWC to provide transgender people a refuge from judgement, hate and violence. She says her community deserves love and acceptance especially during the holidays.

"It's during a time where our community members who are disenfranchised from our family members, where it's the time where we need a more intimate environment the most," said Demuir.