Washington -- The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, issued the following statement on today's guilty verdict in the trial of Dwight DeLee, who brutally murdered Lateisha Green, a 22-year-old African-American transgender woman, outside a Syracuse house party in November. DeLee was convicted of first-degree manslaughter as a hate crime.

"As a community, we thank the jury in this case for ensuring that justice was served," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. "Crimes such as this, motivated by prejudice and hate, are meant to send a message to transgender people that their very existence is not tolerated. The jury's verdict sends a message in return: hate will not be tolerated, and we will fight it wherever it appears until all are safe to live their lives authentically and without fear. As some in Congress question the prevalence of violent hate crimes against the LGBT community, this case provides another reminder of the transgender community's desperate need for protection from hate violence and the need for action on a federal hate crimes bill."

"I am relieved to see Lateisha's killer brought to justice," said Allyson Robinson, HRC Associate Director of Diversity. "As a transgender woman and as a parent, I know the fear that crimes like this brutal murder create. Our thoughts and prayers are with Lateisha's mother, Roxanne, and the rest of her family today. Their loving support of Lateisha in life, and their tireless advocacy for her and for all transgender people since her tragic death, provide an example of compassion and courage for us all."

The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.