The 5th Annual Trans-Latina March: Bringing Together the LGBTQ Community Against Hate Crimes

Activists, supporters, and allies of Globe & PRYDE, the LGBT project launched by latino organization Make The Road, came together in Jackson Heights, Queens, to fight social inequality and injustice in the trans community.

In light of the tragedy in Orlando, the marchers also payed tribute to the victims who lost their lives in the shooting. More than a 100 people carrying banners and flags ralllied down the streets, chanting proud and loud, "Trans-power! Trans-power," repeatedly in the fifth annual Trans-Latina march.

"The goal of the march is to create visibility within our communities, because there has been a high rate of discrimination cases in the LGBT community, specifically with the transgender community," said Bianey Garcia, a trans activist and a team leader at Make The Road.

Letitia James, a New York City public advocate, held a moment of silence for the Orlando victims, reminding everyone why the community needs to be united.

"What happen in Orlando was a clear act of hate," James said. "Hate for the LGBT community. Hate for the trans community. Hate for the values that we hold dear. And a clear indication that we have so much to be proud of, but our country is still far enough from where it needs to be."

Daniel Dromm, New York City council member, marched with the community to show his support. "To me this is the most important rally because this is where we bring things home. This is where it really matters in our neighborhoods," said Dromm.

As an openly gay man, Dromm acknowledges what the trans folks go through everyday. "I got very emotional about what happen in Orlando last night. But we already know this type of violence, especially if you are transgender," said Dromm.

Pearl Love, a transgender woman who was attacked physically and verbally in the subway by a woman, was also at the rally. "We have to be active," she said. "We have to go out and show people trans visibility. We don't need discrimination, just be loved."

Love's testimony shows that, now more than ever, our community needs to come together as one.