8 police officers dismissed after attack to a Trans Man in Los Angeles
In a story that has left many of us gobsmacked, Emmett Brock, a 23-year-old transgender teacher from Los Angeles, has bravely spoken out after being viciously attacked by a rideshare driver. The incident, which highlights the ongoing epidemic of anti-trans violence, is a sobering reminder that despite progress in LGBTQ+ rights, the world can still be an unsafe place for trans individuals.
The Attack
Brock was allegedly attacked by Joseph Benza III, a rideshare driver, after a verbal disagreement escalated. The driver reportedly hurled a slew of transphobic slurs before launching a physical assault that left Brock shaken and injured. The incident, which occurred in November 2022, has only recently come to light after Brock decided to share his story.
While Brock thankfully survived the attack, the emotional and physical toll has been immense. “It’s not just about the punches,” he explained in an interview. “It’s about what those punches represent – a reminder that some people think trans lives don’t matter.”
The Bigger Picture
Let’s not beat around the bush – this attack is not an isolated incident. Violence against trans people, particularly trans people of colour, remains alarmingly high around the globe. In the United States alone, at least 38 transgender or gender non-conforming people were killed in 2024, according to Human Rights Campaign data.
The LGBTQ+ community continues to fight for visibility and equality, but cases like Brock’s highlight how much work is still needed to ensure the safety and dignity of trans lives.
Emmett Brock’s Bravery
Despite the trauma, Brock’s decision to share his story is nothing short of heroic. By speaking out, he shines a light on the violence faced by trans individuals and pushes the conversation about trans rights and safety into the public sphere. His bravery is a stark reminder that visibility matters – even when it comes at a personal cost.
What Needs to Change
The attack on Emmett Brock underscores the urgent need for systemic changes to protect trans individuals. From better training for law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable, to education initiatives that combat transphobia, we must address the roots of this violence.
Laws protecting trans people are vital, but cultural change is equally important. Acceptance starts with empathy, and stories like Brock’s remind us of the humanity behind the headlines.
How to Support
If this story has you feeling outraged (and rightly so!), here’s how you can help:
- Donate to organisations like Transgender Law Center or Stonewall.
- Speak up against transphobia when you see it – silence is complicity.
- Educate yourself about trans issues and share what you learn with others.
- Support trans creators and voices – visibility is power.
The Path Forward
Emmett Brock’s story is heartbreaking, but it’s also a rallying cry for allies and the LGBTQ+ community alike. It’s a reminder that while we’ve come a long way, there’s still so much more to do.
To Emmett: love, you’re not just surviving – you’re thriving. And your courage will inspire countless others to stand tall in the face of adversity. 💪🏳️⚧️
