We’re Setting a Precedent for Trans Rights

Dear Friends,

This is a monumental moment in RFK Human Rights’ history, and we wanted you to be among the first to know.

After years of litigation on behalf of the family of Vicky Hernández, a trans activist who was murdered in Honduras in 2009, we’re proud to announce that the Inter-American Court of Human Rights has ruled in our favor and declared the State of Honduras responsible for her killing.

This is the first time the Court has held a state accountable for failing to prevent, investigate, and prosecute the death of a trans person—breaking a longstanding culture of impunity that has allowed Vicky’s attackers to escape justice for over a decade. The Court has also ordered reparations for Vicky’s family, created an educational scholarship for trans women in Vicky’s name, and mandated that Honduran law enforcement undergo new training on prejudice-based violence against LGBTQ+ individuals to help prevent similar atrocities.

Most importantly, the ruling doesn’t just apply to Vicky’s case. It will set a precedent throughout Latin America, protecting future generations of LGBTQ+ people from the vile discrimination, hate, and violence that ultimately cost Vicky her life.

We’re deeply grateful to our powerhouse litigation team, Angelita Baeyens and Kacey Mordecai, for leading this case, as well as to our partners at Red Lésbica Cattrachas for persevering with us on this long road to justice. Vicky’s family has endured years of pain and heartache that cannot be erased, but her story will continue to drive us to demand justice and fight for equality for all people.

Onward,

Kerry Kennedy
President, RFK Human Rights