The Life and Death of Wanda Alston
By Keith Boykin, in pop culture
Thursday, March 17 2005, 1:44AM
There is no good way to say this. Wanda Alston, a senior member in the cabinet of DC Mayor Anthony Williams, was murdered in her home yesterday. I write this in memory of Wanda.
I cannot remember the first time I met Wanda Alston. It seems as though she was always there. She was a perennial figure in the politics of the nation's capital. She was, that is, until her death.
Late last night I received a call from a friend in Washington who informed me that Wanda had been killed. Wanda was the activist, the fighter, the strong black woman, the vocal lesbian, and so many other things. And yet she was still Wanda, my friend. Wanda was one of the toughest, most determined people I have ever met in my life. She would tell you what she wanted from you and then she would demand your attention. But she was also very gentle, and she spent her life dedicated to helping other people make their lives better.
Some people have so much life and energy that you cannot imagine the world without them. Wanda was one of those people. I could almost visualize an elderly Wanda challenging an elderly me in a feisty conversation decades from now in a retirement home. With her fast-talking, quick-thinking, aggressive style of advocacy, Wanda was the type of person you would want in your corner in a pinch. She was a dynamo, and her presence was inescapable in any room in which she entered. Whether you agreed with her or disagreed, you knew where she stood.
So imagine my surprise when I answered a phone call from a friend who told me that Wanda was no more. Not Wanda. How could they take Wanda! Just last September, she was appointed by DC Mayor Anthony Williams to head the office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Affairs in the city. She had served as the mayor's special assistant to the District's gay community, as a D.C. delegate to the 2004 Democratic National Convention and a former board member of the National Organization for Women (NOW).
When I met Wanda in the early 1990s, she was the executive assistant to NOW President Patricia Ireland, a position in which she helped to organize four national marches on Washington and one in San Francisco, co-led a NOW delegation to the World Conference on Women in Beijing, China, and served as the staff liaison to the National Rainbow Coalition.
She received a Master of Business Administration in international management from Southeastern University in Washington, DC, and a Bachelor of Science in mass communications from Norfolk State University in Norfolk, VA. She was also a former co-chair of the DC Coalition of Black Lesbians, Gay Men & Bisexuals.
The last time I remember seeing Wanda was at a meeting in Washington not long ago, and she immediately started throwing out ideas she wanted to share with me. I hadn't seen her in awhile, but it felt like we were continuing with an earlier conversation.
Last night Wanda was reportedly found by her partner, who was called by city officials when they became concerned that she had not reported for work and had not called in sick. Police and emergency medical personnel were called to Alston's home at 3808 East Capitol St. NE and found Alston's body and "quite a bit of blood on the scene," according to Police Chief Charles Ramsey. Alston died from "what appears to be multiple stab wounds," according to a police spokesman. Police said there was no sign of forced entry into her house.
DC Police Chief Ramsey personally responded to the scene, as well as several high-ranking city officials. Alston's car -- a grey 2000 Nissan Sentra with DC tags AZ9597 -- was reported missing and police have requested that anyone contact the police if sighted. Police are asking anyone with information about the whereabouts of her car or other information about the murder to call police at (202) 727-9099. A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the killer.
Police do not know the motive of the homicide, but those of us who have seen black lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and transgendered people murdered have some reason for concern. With the recent murder of Rashawn Brazell in New York, and underreported killings in other cities, we have more reason than ever to value our lives and to defend ourselves from the violence against us.
Comments conceal
Damaris Wortes
March 17 2005, 12:00PM
Ah wakuh muh monuh kambay yah lee luh lay tambay
Ah wakuh muh monuh kambay yah lee luh lay kah
Ha suh wileego seehai yuh gbangah lilly
Ha suh wileego dwelin duh kwen
Ha suh willeego seehi yuh kwendaiyah
Everyone come together, let us work hard;
the grave is not yet finished; let her heart be perfectly at peace.
Everyone come together, let us work hard;
the grave is not yet finished; let her heart be at peace at once.
Sudden death commands everyone’s attention,
like a firing gun.
Sudden death commands everyone’s attention,
oh elders, oh heads of the family.
Sudden death commands everyone’s attention,
like a distant drum beat.
http://www.unt.edu/news/song.htm#song
William O. Jenkins
March 17 2005, 3:09PM
I did not know Wanda well, but I am heartbroken at her death. I am the Democratic State Committeeman for St. Lucie County in Florida. Wanda Alston was assigned to our county as a paid member of the Kerry-Edwards campaign to drive the voter registration and get-out-the-vote effort in our semi-rural, semi-redneck county into which the state Republican Party put significant resources.
Wanda was chased away by a hurricane and returned to a shellshocked, exhausted and distracted local party apparatus and volunteer group. She made us buck up and suck it up by her force of will. She organized us, trained us and drove us to achieve much more than we realized we could.
Despite a huge financial disadvantage and being up against multiple visits to our county by George w. Bush, Jeb Bush, Laura Bush and the twins, and none by the Democratic presidential, vice presidential and senate candidates or their surrogates, Wanda created a little island of blue in a sea of red. St. Lucie County gave the majority of its votes to every single Democratic candidate except for one very close local race.
This would not have happened without Wanda. And her gritty resolve has remained with us after she went home. Despite our desolation at the outcome of the presidential race, we are tougher and more determined, thanks to her example, than we were before she came to us.
Wanda Alston taught us much. We will always remember her, and though gone now, she will continue to inspire all of us whom she touched.
Wojay
(William O. Jenkins)
J
March 17 2005, 4:34PM
I am shocked and saddened by the death of Wanda Alston. I met this dynamic woman during the Democratic National Convention in Boston while serving the DC Delegation as a page. Although I only spent 4 days in Boston taking orders and doing "grunt work", I grew to admire and respect Wanda for her honesty, passion and directness. Because of Wanda, I believe that young black lesbians such as myself can make a huge impact in the world of politics without compromising my identity. She will truly be missed.
Rev. Alicia Heath-Toby
March 18 2005, 1:07AM
My prayers go out to all that were touched by the life of Wanda. As a people, as lesbian, gay male, bisexual, transgender, and more importantly, as children of God, this is unacceptable. There are no words to say to make sense of such a heinous crime. This is another time in our history that we have to put up or shut up! We have to let our legislators know that crimes against the LGBTQ&I, people of color, women, and girls, is will not be tolerated...zero tolerance!
Cary Alan Johnson
March 18 2005, 1:38AM
What a huge loss. Wanda was a leader in the true sense of the word--on both political and personal levels. Keith is absolutely right about an overall gentleness she had that allowed her to disagree agreeably, but always to pull people along, to teach and instruct, and learn in the process. She will be missed and remembered.
OUT THA BOX ENTERTAINMENT (AJ TAYLOR)
March 18 2005, 3:08AM
I would like to say that I am surprised by this heinous crime. I would like to ask how
could something like this take place. The truth of the matter is, in this day where
seemingly no one values the worth of human life, it doesn't surprise me that this Queen
has been stripped of her earthly presence. I'm not surprised, but as a black lesbian
activist, I am afraid, and saddened by her violent death. Her works for MY community
will not be forgotten and her positivity shall remain for decades upon decades to come.
My prayers are with her family, and may The Creator deliver swift and just karma to the
individual who so callously ended this Queen's life.
Clinton Alexander
March 18 2005, 9:09AM
My prayers are with the immediate and extended families of Wanda. Though I didn't have a personal relationship with her, without question, her life speaks to thousands.
Stephen Maglott
March 18 2005, 9:11AM
We have lost another uncrowned queen. Wanda was a committed and conscientious leader. Who will take up her fight, our fight, and carry the struggle forward? Clearly that responsibility falls on you and I. Lets get busy in Wanda's honor.
Mike Rogers
March 18 2005, 10:29AM
Keith,
Thanks for this moving tribute to a wonderful woman. People in DC are still shocked over the loss of this great community leader.
Will
March 18 2005, 11:50AM
Family, Friends Plan Wanda Alston Remembrance:
Suspect To Be Arraigned Friday Afternoon
http://www.nbc4.com/news/4298090/detail.html
Richard J. Rosendall
March 18 2005, 4:05PM
Wanda's sudden death is shocking and deeply saddening. An energetic presence and a dedicated community organizer has been taken from us. Police report that her body bore wounds indicating she put up a fight. That's our Wanda, fighting to the last. Appreciation is due to the people who pointed police to the killer. But that doesn't bring Wanda back, and I feel like Mayor Tony Williams, who cried at a press conference as Police Chief Charles Ramsey gave an update. We will carry on, but right now we are heartbroken.
Rick Rosendall
Gay and Lesbian Activists Alliance
Washington, D.C.
alicia banks
March 18 2005, 5:41PM
i never met her
but i am deeply moved by your tribute keith...
this tragedy may indeed be via some psycho on a divine mission per some gaybashing knee grow preacher and his buybull bs...
we gays are truly at war...and those of us on the front lines refuse to play nicely...all is fair in war...we are weary warriors with nothing more to lose...
i admire her fire that you described
it and her spirit are indeed eternal
and this too shall be avenged...
ab
Nyah Molineaux
March 18 2005, 10:04PM
What a senseless death. I may not have known her, but I am so angry over her death. She was being a good neighbor by answering the door and this monster went and stabbed her. Then he had a nerve to take her credit cards and car. He was riding around proudly, thinking that no one would find him !!!!!
I dont know about all of you, but I think we need the death penalty in D.C. Or we need to make jail time so harsh that they would want death.
cmoney
March 19 2005, 12:48AM
I am greatly saddened by this senseless killing of a light of hope in our community. May God bless Wanda and her family. People like Wanda touch our lives in ways we never realize until tragic moments such as this. She was a true leader in our community and she was part of our community. News accounts of her death included comments from friends of mine who were friends of Wanda, bringing the tragedy closer to home because I am 100% certain now that I have crossed paths with Wanda here in D.C. In her memory, let us strengthen our commitment to justice and to each other as a community and as a "family".
P.S. The latest news reports suggest that Wanda's killer was a crackhead neighbor looking for money to buy drugs. It does not appear to be an anti-Gay hate crime, just a waste of two lives.
e & l
March 19 2005, 2:29AM
We want to register our grief and outrage over the death of Wanda Alston. We feel great sadness for her partner, friends, relatives--and the entire GLBT family. Let's hope that we can harness our fury and direct that energy toward the ideals she fought so hard for.
Tom Page
March 19 2005, 4:11AM
I only met Wanda a couple of times through the International Network of Lesbian and Gay Officials. She was a talented, passionate, thoughtful, articulate, and above all, effective advocate for all disenfranchised people. Her senseless death is a terrible loss that is deeply felt -- even by those of us who only knew her briefly or in passing.
She will be greatly missed.
Dwayne
March 19 2005, 7:58AM
I had the pleasure of meeting Wanda a few times. She was outgoing, funny, down to earth, and focused. It's still hard to believe. My prayers go out to her family, friends, and associates.
John Martin-McNab
March 19 2005, 8:14AM
My heart is hardened with such sad news- like many other we stand together for our brothers and sisters who continue to fight for equlity and dignity.
Please America and the world
Fight the Good fight.
Equality and justice for all
John Martin McNab
Salt Spring Island
British Columbia
Canada
Brad
March 19 2005, 10:56AM
Wanda put out her hand out to me in early recovery. Met her in a room full of strangers and she gave me a hug and shared with me her experience, strength and hope. That was two years ago and she's been with me ever since. Your tribute, Keith, is appreciated, as Wanda was/is/shall be. A friend yesterday blurted, "sometimes these horrible things just happen!" True, that. This time, a horrible thing has happened. So we remember. I've never felt this thing before.
AL
March 19 2005, 5:12PM
So sorry to hear about the death of your friend. What a loss.
Jon Singleton
March 19 2005, 10:37PM
Thank you for your tribute...
Etienne Nicayenzi
March 20 2005, 1:32PM
I'm deeply saddened by Wanda Alston's unacceptable murder.
My deepest sympathy goes to her family, friends and to those whose lives were changed, for the better by her work.
Etienne Nicayenzi
Toronto
Canada
Miles K. Bell
March 20 2005, 9:16PM
Wanda Alston was a trail blazer. Man, I remember
being a youngster (almost anyway) at a early '90s Black Pride function when I was moved by her efforts. Her spirit lives on. She is among the many reasons why I am forever a part of my hometown, Washington, DC. WASHINGTON!
Jeff Smith
March 21 2005, 1:34AM
Man what a spirit!!! I was devasted by her loss of physical life. Although over the last few years I only encountered her a few times each encounter was a blessing. I was blessed to have met Wanda during a time of true need. She was one of many people who help me get my life in order. I would occasionally encounter her on the streets of DC and I was always welcomed with a warm hug and peck on the neck. She was a dynamo. Her energy was boundless. I have never experience such a focused and highly charged individual. But I am certain her spirit will live on through all the lives she has touched. Yesterday I attended the memorial service here in DC. It was a wonderful celebration of her legacy. I feel truly blessed to have been able to participate in this true life force.
Doug Cooper
March 21 2005, 9:28AM
Loss seems to be such a common thing in our community. I wish the best for Wanda's family, and that they know she was a bright star... and still is.
Terrence Stith
March 21 2005, 9:57AM
My heart goes out to all the freinds and family of Wanda, she was a great woman, i met her a few time at diffrent events in the DC area. She will be greatlly missed and always will be in are hearts.
lisa
March 21 2005, 1:03PM
Chicago is aching too, because many of us here in the LGBTQ communities know Stacey, Wanda's partner, some of us met Wanda last year when she and Stacey came in for a community event.
I had the pleasure of meeting Wanda when I came to DC for the reproductive rights march last year, she was a force to be reckoned with. So caring and full of life with plenty of contagious enthusiasm like only an Aries can have !!
I was looking forward to coming to Stacey and Wanda's wedding next year.
This is such a huge, huge loss for us all. She was a true warrior with a heart.
It is my hope that we will join together in community, to heal and regain our faith in humanity.
Blessings,
Lisa
balllover
March 21 2005, 4:59PM
Was she killed because she was a lesbian?
Troy
March 21 2005, 7:57PM
This Friday, March 25th, 2005 there will be a candle light vigil held for the rememberance of Rashawn Brazell who was brutally murdered in February here in New York City.
The vigil is open to all, everyone is invited and will be held at Nostrand Avenue Subway entrance at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, eastern standard time. No special speakers are expected or slated to be there and nothing is required for those that want to be there and share in remembering Rashawn Brazell. Our prayers and thoughts and positive actions are in the hopes that this may never again happen to any one, no matter who they are, at any time.
We propose at that time, to light one candle, in Rashawn Brazell's memory and saw a few words as we think about and offer hope to a better day and change in the way we live and how we live in our different but linked communities.
Please stop by and show your support in recognizing this one life ended due to violence and hatred in our world. You and your prayers can change things if we each of us come together as one. Thank you.
siobhan brooks
March 23 2005, 11:29PM
I have not met Wanda but was saddened to hear of her senseless killing and reminded of how we must fight against the violence inflicted upon us. Thanks, Keith for your comments.
Joyce Jonas
March 25 2005, 5:43PM
Wanda inspired me at Democratic Headquarters in Port St. Lucie, FL to go out and urge people in poor neighborhoods to vote. Another woman and I drove out to those neighborhoods and did as much as we could to do just that, and we felt like we had accomplished something. Wanda touched everyone who saw her and listened to her. What a tragedy.
Tawana from New York
March 25 2005, 10:44PM
Hi Keith
I am a student journalist, and I truly admire your work, I did not personally know Wanda Alston, but the terrible news of her death is very disturbing. Her pictures exude warmth and leadership. My heart and prayers goes out to her family,friends and her longtime partner. It is just another reminder as to just how fragile life really is.
Ben Frost
March 27 2005, 8:49PM
Oh my, Lord, may Wanda Alston soul rest in peace. What a woman of the fight, a woman of courage, a woman of ministry. The entire gay community has suffered a huge loss.
qwert
March 30 2005, 10:35PM
ggggayy. gggone. buhbye.
Lillian T. Piersante
March 31 2005, 9:33AM
My prayers go out you and to all that were touched by the life of Wanda Alston. I never met Wanda but as I read your memorial to her I felt as if we've lost yet another child of God...a person much needed here. In her memory we must continue to work towards justice and let our leaders know that crimes against the LGBTQ&I, people of color, women, and girls, is will not be tolerated.
Thank you for sharing her story with us...I have been touched by her LIFE!
Lillian. T. Piersante
Tonya
April 19 2005, 10:34PM
Wanda your will always be remebered. Rest in peace sista.
BRENDA MCCLELLAN
April 21 2005, 2:34PM
My prayers are with the family and friends of Wanda Alston. I did not know Wanda but this is one of my greatest fears for my daughter.
About three years ago my daughter told me that she was bisexual. However, I had very little understanding of the LGBT enviroment. We taked and she tried to explain it all to me. I explained to my daughter that I love her and that I would support her in everway I could but I would not support the lifestyle. Afetr I found this out fear set in. I knwe when I was growing up, I heard the hatered towards gay people and I do not what my daughter to go through that alone. I want to be there for moral support because I know alone there was little I could do. The interactive behavior is not allow around me and she was expected to explain this to her friends. My daughters friend are welcome in my home and they do come. In every respect they are just like you and I and we just have different lifestyles. I will not inpose my life style on you and you will not inpose yours on me. And yes to the best of my knowledge we have one gay person in our family and we love him and he is a jou to be aroung.I still have my moments when I reflect on the thing she and I will not have together. (things I am accustom to doing as mother and daughter, the girlly things) My child is not into it and I don't push her. However, I do demand one thing of my daughter, she must wear female attire to church. I have read your book Keith and it is helping me to understand what's ahead for both me and my daughter. And yes you are right, the church is not there. The church sees LGBT as a sin and that's it. The church never teach on this matter and yes gays are in the church because everything about the outward appearance says they are gay but do I really know. No. I don't. You said in your book Beyond the Down Low, don't ask, don't tell is going on in the churches. I'd like to think my church was a liberading when it comes to LGBT people but it's not. I'd like to thank you for this book because it made me relize that I have been living in another world for the pass five years. Why? Too busy working and too tired to do anythingelse. My biggest challedge now is to get educated on how women protect themselves from women sexually. I have no personal knowledge and I have spoke to several doctors at Health Education & Resource in Baltimore and that has been a help. I found your book Beyond the Down Low very informative. To be honest I all most did not buy the book because I recently understood what DL everybody was referring to. And I thought I do not what to read about no DL sex mess. I am a 48 year old black woman who is a single parent (in the sense that my daughters father does not like with us but is very active in her life)and I thought that "I don't need to know about people on the DL. When I was coming up DL meant, give me the 911 information, the duty on someone but not someones sexual preference. Thanks again for the book! Stay strong and I love you already.
Wanda say a pray for all of us still down here. I know you are in a better palce with our Father.
God Bless