A POIGNANT candlelit vigil was held on Saturday to remember 16-year-old trans girl Brianna Ghey who was killed earlier this month.
People gathered at The Yard’s outdoor seating area for a 30-minute reflection period.
Brianna was found in Linear Park in Culcheth, Warrington, on February 11.
A boy and girl, both aged 15, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on Thursday charged with her murder. A trial will take place from July 10.
The service was held to remember Brianna and all those who have been attacked and killed in the trans community.
The vigil was led in a prayer, remembering how Brianna would not hide and stood proud for who she was.
The prayer also mourned her ‘senseless death’, gave thanks for her life and prayed for the strength to carry on her legacy of ‘vision, bravery and love.’
Coventry South MP Zarah Sultana also sent her message of support for the trans community, which was read out at the vigil.
Members of The Yard team decided to organise the vigil after being contacted by members of the local LGBTQ+ community who felt they wanted to show solidarity with Brianna, her family and friends and the trans community.
The Yard’s marketing manager Aran Nugent said the vigil showed Coventry’s love for Brianna and a determination that the city would not tolerate hate.
“It’s important for us to shine a light on such a tragedy as well as to recognise those who continue to face adversity simply due to their identity.
“People coming together in Coventry shows our allyship and strength in numbers to face prejudice together, in the hope of inspiring change in the systems that are failing so many in our community.”
Towns and cities across Britain held vigils over the weekend to pay tribute to Brianna.
