Joe Biden Pledges to Combat Violence Against Transgender Women in First 100 Days of Presidency

Former Vice President Joe Biden has vowed to work to end the epidemic of violence against transgender people during the first 100 days of his presidency.

Biden’s plan on LGBTQ issues, which is included on his campaign website, details how he will tackle the epidemic.

“As a direct response to the high rates of homicide of transgender people—particularly transgender women of color—the Biden Administration will make prosecuting their murderers a priority,” his plan states. “And during his first 100 days in office, Biden will direct federal resources to help prevent violence against transgender women, particularly transgender women of color.”

Biden has been vocal about this issue. After 28-year-old transgender woman Nina Pop was recently stabbed to death in her Missouri apartment and four trans women were killed in Puerto Rico, the presidential hopeful spoke out on Facebook.

“We cannot be silent in the face of rising violence against transgender people of color—like the recent tragedies in Missouri and Puerto Rico,” Biden said. “It’s our moral obligation to end this epidemic and ensure everyone can live open and proud of free from fear.”

Also detailed in Biden’s LGBTQ plan includes passing the Equality Act, ending LGBTQ youth homelessness, working to end suicide among LGBTQ youth, and enforcing and strengthening the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act.