M E D I A   R E L E A S E For Immediate Release March 17, 2005 NCAVP Expresses Sympathy to LGBT Community and Colleagues in DC After Murder of Wanda Alston New York – In an expression of sympathy to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in Washington, DC, as well as its LGBT community colleagues in the nation's capitol, the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) called the murder of Wanda R. Alston a "tragically sad and painful moment." "The murder of anyone is a horrible thing, and we're in the unfortunate position as an organization and a community of experiencing the devastating impact of murders all too often" said Clarence Patton, NCAVP's executive director. "But for many in Washington and elsewhere, Wanda was a friend and colleague," continued Patton. "We've all been reaching out to friends, family and those with whom we work in Washington to offer our condolences and any support that we can provide as individuals and as an organization. I know that Wanda's work and friendship were very much valued by NCAVP's members and staff," added Patton. "At this point in time, we can all only hope that the investigation will be mercifully swift and competent, and that Wanda's friends, family, colleagues and city will find peace and receive justice," concluded Patton. In 2004, AVP served over 2,000 victims of violence. AVP’s annual reports on hate and domestic violence can be accessed online at www.avp.org. The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) addresses the pervasive problem of violence committed against and within the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) and HIV-positive communities. NCAVP is a coalition of programs that document and advocate for victims of anti-LGBT and anti-HIV/AIDS violence/harassment, domestic violence, sexual assault, police misconduct and other forms of victimization. NCAVP is dedicated to creating a national response to the violence plaguing these communities. Further, NCAVP supports existing anti-violence organizations and emerging local programs in their efforts to document and prevent such violence.