Sir Elton John And Former R.e.m. Frontman Michael Stipe Have Joined Forces To Campaign For The Rights Of Transgender Criminals.
The two gay stars are calling for prison officials to do more for inmates following claims that a transgender woman was mistreated at a Georgia prison.
In a joint statement issued on Tuesday (07Apr15), the rockers write, "Transgender women in male prisons have an equal right to protection from violence and abuse in prison, and yet they continue to face horrific injustices.
"More often than not, assaults in part go unreported because the perpetrators are prison guards, wardens and staff. This is outrageous, and the message it sends is horrific: that violence against and discrimination of trans people is not only allowed, but sanctioned."
Last week (ends03Apr15), officials at the U.S. Justice Department ruled prison bosses and guards must treat an inmate's gender identity condition just as they would treat any other medical or mental health condition following a February (15) lawsuit filed against Georgia Department of Corrections officials on behalf of Ashley Diamond, a transgender woman.
According to the lawsuit, prison officials did not provide sufficient treatment for the 36 year old's gender dysphoria.
Diamond also claims she was sexually assaulted and ridiculed in prison.
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