We are experiencing many losses in recent times... unfortunately, one of these absences now directly hits ELAS+.

On Sunday afternoon (15), Alessandra Ramos Makkeda, a black and trans woman, Program Analyst at ELAS+, passed away, victim of a sudden illness.

She marked everyone on the team with her energy and joy, as well as her commitment to the cause she believed in and defended. We have lost a dear coworker and a great force in the fight for the rights of women, black women and trans people.

Ale, as she was known, was president of the Instituto Transformar Shelida Ayana - a collective formed by Trans, Transmasculine and Transvestite women and men that works to combat LGBTQIphobia, racial and gender inequality. 

The work in the area of Human Rights, with the themes of gender, intersectionality and LGBTQIA+, HIV/AIDS prevention and Leadership community was remarkable in Alessandra's professional career. She left a great legacy that will certainly serve as inspiration for those who continue in this struggle.

Alessandra was also a speaker and had 20 years of experience as a language interpreter - for Brazilian Sign Language and English. Raising the banner of accessibility, through translation into LIBRAS, was also part of the efforts of this great activist.

We sympathize with all the family and friends of Alessandra, wishing them to find consolation in the greatness of her existence. Our deepest sympathies and may all the strength and energy of love be comfort at this time.

Team ELAS+

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We are experiencing a lot of losses in recent times... unfortunately, one of these absences now directly affects ELAS+.

Alessandra Ramos Makkeda, a black and trans woman, ELAS+ Program Analyst, passed way this May 15th, victim of a sudden illness.

She marked all of the team with her energy and joy, in addition to her huge commitment to the cause she believed in. We lost a dear co-worker and a great force in the fight for the rights of women, black women and trans people.

Ale, as she was known, was president of the Transformar Shelida Ayana Institute - a collective formed by Trans, Transmasculine and Transvestite that works to combat LGBTQIphobia, racial and gender inequality.

Her work for Human Rights, with the themes of gender, intersectionality and LGBTQIA+, HIV/AIDS prevention and community protagonism was remarkable. She left a great legacy that will surely serve as an inspiration to those who will continue this fight.

Alessandra was also a speaker and had 20 years of experience as a language interpreter - for Brazilian Sign Language (LIBRAS) and for English. Raising the banner of accessibility, through LIBRAS translation, was also part of her efforts.

We sympathize with all friends and family, wishing them to find comfort in the greatness of Ale's existence. May the energy of love comfort you all at this time.

ELAS+ team