O’Shae Sibley, a 28-year-old Black gay man and dancer, was tragically and incomprehensibly murdered over the weekend in Brooklyn. Sibley’s murder is one in a dangerous pattern of targeted, hate-fueled acts of violence against LGBTQ+ people happening across the country, which Black LGBTQ+ people disproportionately experience.

We are outraged by Sibley’s murder and join New York City’s LGBTQ+ community in mourning the loss of a beloved community member who was celebrated for his many talents and advocacy.

At The Center, we know it’s not enough to only cultivate safe and affirming spaces within the confines of our building. Black, queer people deserve to live freely and have the right to experience joy in all spaces. We stand for a world that celebrates the creativity and expression of us all. We demand justice for O’Shae and will continue to advocate for meaningful protections for LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, especially those forced to navigate multiple systems that perpetuate harm.