Diamond Flowers: Trans Day of Rememberance

This hashtag#TransDayofRememberance I’m remembering Diamond. Diamond and I met through a Zoom screen while working together on national Direct Cash Transfers programs, but we connected because we both lived and organized in Grand Rapids, MI. I was always inspired by her playfulness, intelligence, and boldness to say exactly what needed to be said. When Diamond’s contract in our shared work ended at the end of last year, I still thought of her often and how I would catch up with her again soon. That day never came. In April 2025, she tragically transitioned from this realm at the young age of 22. I was completely shaken by this news. Seeking comfort in our grief, my colleagues and I talked about her at work, but were surprised by the near apathy received from leadership. Business just carried on as usual. Wanting to find a way to feel close to her, I scoured the internet and archives to find more about Diamond. I couldn’t find much, but what I did find (including her obituary) only referenced Diamond through names, identities, and pronouns that I knew weren’t affirming to her life. To witness up close and personal how Black trans women are disregarded, disrespected, and devalued even in their deaths was incredibly devastating.

Gratefully, I ran into a mutual colleague I had with Diamond, who informed me of an in-person memorial service planned in her honor. I was able to attend the service, which was packed to the brim with people who loved Diamond. There, I learned more about Diamond’s incredible life. I learned about how Diamond loved breakfast food. How she was super competitive and loved a great game of “Spicy Uno”. How she was a steadfast supporter of her loved ones that were caretakers and a safe presence for children. How she had amazing, calligraphy-like handwriting. And, about her deep reverence for flowers, especially the lotus.

At the memorial, they gave all of us a copy of Diamond’s lotus flower in remembrance of her. I still keep the lotus flower on my desk and sometimes carry it around with me as a reminder. A reminder of her life, and a reminder to fight for a world where Diamond had more time.

So many trans folks deserve way more time.

hashtag#TransDayOfRememberance hashtag#TransIsBeautiful hashtag#ProtectTransKids hashtag#WeRemember hashtag#TransAwarenessWeek