Thirty-five years have passed since the tragic murder of Venus Pellagatti Xtravaganza, a prominent figure in the drag ball scene and a star of the acclaimed documentary “Paris is Burning.” Xtravaganza’s body was discovered on Christmas Day in 1988 under a bed in the Duchess hotel in New York City, the victim of a brutal strangulation.
A Life Cut Short
Born to Italian-American and Puerto Rican parents, Xtravaganza, from Jersey City, New Jersey, was a beacon of creativity and resilience in the transgender community. Her aspirations in modeling and drag performance were cut short at the tender age of 23, a shocking end to a life filled with both challenges and triumphs. She had moved to New York City in her early teens, seeking a life where she could express her true self, away from the judgmental eyes of a conservative society.
Legacy and Unanswered Questions
Xtravaganza’s life, though brief, left an indelible mark on the LGBTQ community. Her story is a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by transgender individuals, particularly during the late 20th century. Despite the passage of time, the question of who was responsible for her death remains unanswered, a somber reminder of the many challenges and dangers the transgender community continues to face. Her family and friends, along with the broader LGBTQ community, still await justice for Venus Xtravaganza, a symbol of talent, bravery, and unfulfilled potential.