Deangelo Wallace, a gay man who auditioned for The X Factor in 2012, was shot to death in front of Kansas City, Mo., police headquarters this week.
Von'Du says the incident was a matter of self-defense.
A suspect has been charged with second-degree murder and armed criminal action.
Brandon Boulware argued eloquently against trans-exclusionary legislation, and video of his testimony has received thousands of views.
Burnett, whose best friend was murdered nine years ago, is at least the 27th trans American to die violently this year.
Jacob Brashier says he suffered antigay harassment while working at a nursing home and was ultimately fired.
The Rt. Rev. Deon Kevin Johnson says racial justice will be one of his priorities in heading the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri.
