Pride Foundation has learned of extremely devastating news out of Montana. Two individuals from the Missoula transgender community, Jame Wallack and Sam Edelman, have died from suicide.
The loss of a loved one is difficult to bear, and we feel a profound sense of loss along with our LGBTQ community partners and allies this week. We hope that Jame and Sam may rest in peace and their families find the support they need during this very difficult time.
This moment once again reminds us that the courage it takes to simply exist in this world as a transgender person can feel insurmountable.
It is one reason why Pride Foundation remains resolute in prioritizing our investments to those most vulnerable and most impacted by discrimination in our communities—including transgender Montanans.
We hope we can count on you to join us in this essential work.
On Thursday, March 10th, Pride Foundation will be partnering with the Gender Expansion Project, Montana Human Rights Network, and the Carroll College Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) to host a community conversation in Helena. We’ll discuss the unique issues facing the transgender community and share more resources and support for those in need.
Our thoughts are with the families of Jame and Sam. It’s critical at this time to come together as a community, strengthen our support systems, and create a positive and proactive dialogue around how we move forward.
Please join us in Helena for our community conversation if you can.
If you know anyone who needs support and resources, please refer them to the following helplines:
Trans Lifeline – US – 877-565-8860 / Canada – 877-330-6366 / General Inquiries (non-emergency) – 415-483-5361 – translifeline.org
Trevor Project – 866-488-7386 / 1-202-304-1200 for texting / online chat (ages 13 – 24) – trevorproject.com
National Suicide Lifeline – 1-800-273-8255
The Gender Expansion Project is a grantee and partner organization based in Missoula, which works across Montana to providing critical support for transgender, gender diverse, and gender non-conforming people. Their contact information is:
Gender Expansion Project – 406-848-1220 – genderexpansionproject.org