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Good afternoon;
This week, we're highlighting the tragic death of 19-year-old Jayla McGee, a Black transgender woman from Belle Glade whose July 5 killing has received little attention.
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Thank you for reading.
— Jason Parsley
Publisher, OutPBC
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19-Year-Old Jayla McGee Murdered; Family Searches for Answers
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The death of 19-year-old Jayla McGee, a Black transgender woman from Belle Glade, is drawing attention from LGBTQ advocates who say the case has largely flown under the radar since she was shot and killed July 5.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office is investigating her death as a homicide, but as of publication, no suspect or motive has been announced.
Family, friends and community members gathered for a candlelight vigil July 18 to honor McGee's life. The National Black Justice Collective (NBJC) is calling for a thorough investigation and greater public attention to the case, noting that limited media coverage and the misgendering of McGee in some official records have made it more difficult to tell her story.
"My heart breaks for Jayla and all those who loved her," Victoria Kirby York, NBJC's director of public policy and programs, said in a statement. York said the circumstances surrounding McGee's death reflect broader challenges facing trans communities, including inaccurate reporting and a lack of visibility when trans people are victims of violence.
McGee, affectionately known to friends as "Baby J," grew up in Belle Glade and was remembered online for her humor, vibrant personality and deep connections with family and friends.
According to the Advocate, who drew national attention to the murder, noted the PBSO misgendered and deadnamed McGee.
"Upon arrival, deputies located an adult male deceased from gunshot wound(s). Detectives are investigating this shooting as a homicide. No motive or suspect information is known at this time," the PBSO told the Advocate.
While advocates continue to push for answers in McGee's case, past investigations show justice can take years. Broward Sheriff's Office detectives recently announced a breakthrough in the 2020 killing of Bree "Nuk" Black, a 27-year-old Black trans woman from Pompano Beach. Nearly six years after her murder, investigators identified a person of interest who is now incarcerated on unrelated violent charges.
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Family Plans Celebration of Life for Connor Blais Aug. 8 |
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The family of Connor Blais will celebrate the life of the beloved bartender Saturday, Aug. 8, with a public gathering one month after he was killed in a hit-and-run crash while heading home from work in West Palm Beach.
The Celebration of Life will be held from 1 to 6 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 705 Leeland Heights Blvd. E. in Lehigh Acres, which is in Lee County on the Southwest Coast of the state.
A rosary will be held in the sanctuary from 1 to 2 p.m., and attendees are encouraged to wear red in honor of Blais, whose favorite color was red.
The gathering follows an emotional memorial held last month at O’Shea’s Irish Pub in West Palm Beach, where Blais worked for nearly two years. Friends, family, coworkers, customers, and members of the LGBTQ community filled the local pub to celebrate his life.
Connor’s mother, Janet Blais, said hearing stories from customers and friends brought comfort during an unimaginable week.
“Having the customers come to me and hug me and tell me their stories of how they met Connor has just been — you would think heartbreaking — but it was soothing,” she said. “The outpouring of love has helped me heal a little bit.”
Blais, 28, was killed July 6 while heading home after finishing his shift at O’Shea’s. Police found him in the roadway on South Olive Avenue near East Lakewood Road around 1:50 a.m. An electric scooter was discovered nearby, and investigators say the driver fled without stopping to render aid or report the crash.
The family has said investigators informed them police believe they have located the vehicle involved in the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.
Following a recent memorial, Connor’s partner, Lawrence Cassenti, reflected on the gathering in a Facebook post.
“[The] memorial for Connor at O’Shea’s was surreal,” Cassenti wrote. “I’m so grateful to them along with everyone that showed up to #GlitterUpForConnor and raise a glass in his name. I miss you more today than yesterday. I love you.”
Friends have also created a photo album celebrating Blais' life and a GoFundMe established to help with funeral and memorial expenses has raised more than $16,500.
Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact Detective Hatfield of the West Palm Beach Police Department at 561-822-1784 and reference case number 20260009954. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County.
📝 story by Jason Parsley 📸 photo via social media
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Saturdays w/ Melissa St. John
Melissa St. John lights up the stage with unforgettable performances and fierce glamour every week. @ H.G. Roosters in West Palm Beach. Showtimes at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m.
Weekly AA Meeting @ Pizza Hut Church
We Are Not Saints, weekly AA meeting, offering fellowship, support, and recovery in an LGBTQ-inclusive space. @ Church Of Our Savior MCC, 2011 South Federal Hwy Boynton Bch 7 p.m.
MONDAYNight Runners Run/Walk
Join the Night Runners for their twice-weekly run/walk. Mondays & Thursdays @ Howard Park in West Palm Beach. 8 p.m.
TUESDAY Pickleball Social
Join BLAST for a free weekly pickleball social in Boynton Beach. Players of all skill levels are welcome. Location details are provided after RSVP. Tuesdays. RSVP here. 7 p.m.
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Aug. 14: Dyke Night | 80s Throwback
Dyke Night is throwing it back! The femme-centered party returns Friday with an “80s Throwback” night at Propaganda in Lake Worth Beach.
Guests are encouraged to dress in their best ’80s looks and hit the dance floor for a queer draglesque show.
The monthly event has become a popular gathering spot for Palm Beach County’s queer community.
Organizers also remind guests to bring cash to tip the performers. $10 ($15 for men). 21+. Friday, Aug. 14.
Read our previous coverage HERE. |
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🩺 Free Rapid HIV Testing:
Free rapid HIV testing is available Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
☕ Coffee Clatch & Book Club:
Coffee Clatch is a welcoming gathering for LGBTQ+ elders to connect over coffee, conversation and community. The group meets the first and third Mondays of each month from 10 a.m. to noon. Readers can also participate in the monthly virtual Book Club discussion from home. Join the Coffee Clatch Facebook Group for updates and book selections.
Compass LGBTQ+ Community Center, 201 N. Dixie Highway in Lake Worth Beach.
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Meet Taila
Taila is a stunning long-haired dark gray beauty with a gentle soul and a sweet, affectionate side just waiting to shine.
About 3 years old, Taila can be shy at first and needs a little patience while she gets comfortable. But once she feels safe, she warms up beautifully, forming strong bonds with the people she trusts and soaking up gentle attention.
She came to the shelter with her sister, Tess, and gets along well with other cats. Loud noises and busy environments can frighten her, so Taila is looking for a quiet, calm home without young children or dogs where she can truly blossom.
Taila at a Glance
🐾 Domestic Longhair
🎂 About 3 years old
❤️ Sweet and affectionate once comfortable
🐱 Good with other cats
🏡 Prefers a quiet, calm home
🚫 No dogs or young children
🩺 Spayed and up to date on vaccinations
Taila's Love Language: Patience, gentle attention and a peaceful place to call home.
Think Taila might be your perfect match? Visit Adopt-A-Cat Foundation in West Palm Beach to learn more. More info HERE. |
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Our mailing address is: OutPBC |
PO Box 23817 • Oakland Park, FL 33307
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