Trans advocate and community leader Elise Malary remembered, honored, and gone too soon

Photo taken by Chicago Therapy Collective

AFC mourns the loss of Elise Malary, beloved community leader and trans liberation activist. Her body was recovered from Lake Michigan, March 17, 2022. Elise was a cherished Policy and Advocacy Social Media Intern here at AFC From January 2016 to August 2016.  She is remembered fondly by all that had the chance to know her.

“Her voice was soft. Her tongue was sharp. Her love is forever,” read a message written on the wall where her vigil was held Sunday evening.

Thank you, Elise, for your activism, leadership, and vision. Rest in power. Black trans women deserve more.

Detectives are continuing to investigate Malary’s death. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Evanston Police Detective Bureau at 847-866-5040. Tips can also be texted to 274637 if the message starts with “EPDTIP.”

We thank Block Club Chicago for their reporting on this incident. Learn more about Elise Malary by reading their article.