Black Women in LA Take Action Against Homicides

Black women and girls make up a small portion of the population in the LA region but account for an outsized share of female homicide victims. Families and organizers point to the tragic killing of 16-year-old Tioni Theus, whose body was found with a gunshot wound to the neck in 2021, as an example of systemic neglect. Despite rewards and reports commissioned by local leaders, no arrests have been made in her case years later. Frustrated with authorities, local Black women are stepping up to address the crisis through taskforces, rallies, summer programs, and podcasts. They are fighting against misogyny and stereotypes while demanding that local governments and police dedicate more resources and strategy to combating gender-based violence.