Asia Jynaé Foster Became the 38th Murdered Trans Person in 2020

The body of a woman that was found in Southwest Houston last Friday has been identified as that of 22-year-old Asia Jynaé Foster. Asia’s homicide marks the 38th murder of a trans person in 2020, exacerbating the violence and loss felt by the trans community in its most violent year since 2013.

Foster had previously been a client of Montrose Grace Place, a drop-in shelter for homeless LGBTQ+ youth, which held a candlelight vigil in Asia’s memory. She was remembered by Houston activist Dee Dee Watters as “outgoing, funny, and she could put together a read that left everyone around her scrambling to pick up their jaws.”

Watters faced the heartbreaking task of identifying the body of Asia after it was discovered on Trans Day of Remembrance last Friday.

Asia was remembered by friends and family at the vigil for excelling professionally and personally during the last year of her short life.

Asia’s death was caused by multiple gunshot wounds but the perpetrator of the murder has not yet been identified. As many seekers of justice join in in saying Asia’s name and honoring the life she lived, many trans activists and allies are emphasizing the need for trans individuals to protect themselves from the increasing violence they continue to be subjected to.

“Be aware of your surroundings,” Asia’s close friend Majanae Chambers said. “Be aware of who you are meeting with. Meet someone in public. Be where everyone can see you. Awareness.”