Hundreds of mourners gathered on a Friday night in February for a candlelight vigil in the West Village to honor the life of Sam Nordquist, a 24-year-old Black trans man who tragically lost his life to senseless violence. The vigil, which also paid tribute to other trans individuals lost to violence, such as Tahiry Broom, drew attention to the ongoing struggles faced by the LGBTQIA+ community.
Sam Nordquist, originally from Red Wing, Minnesota, ventured to Upstate New York in September 2024 but went missing in early January 2025. His family reported him missing on February 9, and his body was found days later, revealing a harrowing tale of torture endured over several months. The heartbreaking loss of Nordquist struck a chord with many, prompting a collective outpouring of grief and solidarity.
The Church of the Village, a historic sanctuary for LGBTQ+ individuals, served as the backdrop for the vigil, underscoring the significance of community support and unity in times of tragedy. The church’s rich history as a safe haven for LGBTQ+ individuals and clergy since 1973 added a poignant layer to the evening’s events, emphasizing the enduring strength and resilience of the community.
A Call for Justice and Unity
Reverend Yunus Coldman, a Black transmasculine clergy member, delivered a powerful message of inclusivity and affirmation during the vigil, urging attendees to seek out spaces that embrace and uplift marginalized voices. His impassioned plea resonated with the audience, reminding them of the importance of standing together in the face of adversity and discrimination.
Kei Williams, the interim executive director of the New Pride Agenda, shed light on the alarming statistics surrounding violence against Black trans individuals, highlighting the urgent need for justice and systemic change. Williams’ remarks underscored the broader societal issues fueling discrimination and violence against marginalized communities, calling on allies and advocates to join forces in the fight for equality and inclusivity.
As the vigil drew to a close, PFLAG NYC and the New Pride Agenda invited attendees to offer flowers in remembrance of Nordquist and other lives lost. The poignant gesture of laying flowers at the altar symbolized a collective commitment to honoring the memories of those who have been taken too soon, while also serving as a visual reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.
Clark Wolff Hamel, the acting executive director of PFLAG NYC, emphasized the importance of collaboration and mutual support within the LGBTQ+ community, noting that unity and solidarity are key to effecting positive change in a challenging political climate. The partnership that brought the vigil to fruition highlighted the power of collective action and shared goals in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and protections.
Outrage over Nordquist’s death reverberated across state lines, with leaders from Minnesota and New York condemning the heinous act of violence. The vigil in the West Village served as a poignant reminder that acts of violence against marginalized communities impact us all, regardless of geographic distance or perceived differences. The interconnectedness of communities and the shared commitment to justice and equality were palpable throughout the evening, underscoring the resilience and strength of the LGBTQ+ community in the face of tragedy.
In the wake of Nordquist’s untimely death, the candlelight vigil in the West Village served as a beacon of hope and solidarity, bringing together individuals from all walks of life to honor his memory and the memories of countless others lost to senseless violence. As attendees laid flowers and shared moments of reflection, the spirit of unity and resilience shone brightly, offering a message of hope for a more just and inclusive future for all.
