A tribute to the
life of Wanda Alston

How do you say goodbye to someone you've known for nearly 20 years, whose life was such a testament to the things that we should all strive for and whose untimely death in such a horribly violent and senseless manner leaves you numb and speechless? Wanda Alston was more than a devoted community activist who fought tirelessly for the equality of the GLBT communities, the rights of women and youth--she was my comrade and my sister in the struggle. But most important, she was my friend. I don't really remember the first time I met her, but I do remember that we became fast friends on that first meeting. Wanda and I didn't talk on a regular basis, but whenever we did, it was as if no time had passed. Wanda was one of those friends who you might not maintain constant contact with, but when something important happened (or if you needed her), she was there! I can't begin to find the words to say goodbye to my friend. And why should I...? I find it even harder to find the words to express my rage at the thought of her last minutes of life. To be in her home, her place of warmth and safety, and have someone invade that sanctity and force her into a fight for her life. Wanda was a fighter, but it's hard to imagine how frightened and alone she must have felt. I can only hope that she didn't suffer long. But I don't want to focus on how Wanda died; I would much rather remember how she lived! She lived life to the fullest. To my friend I can say only that you are terribly missed; your zest for life and tremendous contributions to the struggles of marginalized people will not be forgotten. To the coward who ripped such a strong black lesbian and a genuinely good human being from our midst, I can only hope that your captors will be kinder to you than you were to my friend. Wanda, I love you, and may you rest in peace! I know that you'll continue to fight for the marginalized and I'll see you again! Your friend and sister in the Struggle! --Vallerie