In the wake of Friday night's Oakland fire, which left at least 36 dead and many more missing, two vigils will be held tonight.
The first will be hosted in the Castro, beginning at Harvey Milk Plaza at 5:30pm.
"Many of the unidentified victims and survivors of the fire are trans individuals of color," reads the Facebook event page. "Our vigil will create a safe space for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities to to mourn the victims. In order to raise awareness about the unique issues facing trans victims of the fire, our gathering will also call for safe spaces for trans individuals."
Participants are encouraged to bring their own candles.
A second vigil for victims of the "Ghost Ship" fire is being organized in Oakland at 8pm at the Lake Merritt Pergola. The event is being hosted by a group called Raver Remembrance.
"We are going to have a light vigil Monday at 8pm, to pay respect to those we have lost but never will forget," organizers wrote on Facebook.
They're asking individuals to bring flame-less candles, glow sticks, flashlights, or other type of light, and to carpool if possible. The event will reportedly be broadcasted via Facebook Live for those who are unable to attend.
A crowdfunding campaign has also been set up for victims of the fire. To date, nearly a quarter of a million dollars have been raised. There are also fundraisers for two of the victims: Travis Hough, who was killed and whose friends and family are fundraising for funeral costs, and Jose Avalos, who survived but lost all of his belongings.
Other upcoming events this week include:
- A queer/trans open mic night fundraiser in Oakland tomorrow
- A benefit show in Emeryville on Wednesday
- A family-dinner style fundraiser in Oakland happening Thursday
- A personal belongings bazaar for victims of the fire in Oakland on Thursday
