Transgender sex workers feel under attack. These women are working to protect their own. (Washington Post)

From left, Emmelia Talarico, Bianca Bonita Carter and Tamika Spellman cruise the streets checking up on sex workers in the early-morning hours in Northeast Washington. (J. Lawler Duggan/For The Washington Post)

With a bag of condoms and a stack of business cards, Tamika Spellman, HIPS Policy and Advocacy Associate, began a route she knew by heart, peering out the window of her Lincoln sedan at dark sidewalks where she once stood.   Spellman rolled down the window,“Ya’ll got condoms?” she called.  On the corner of 51st and Meade street, they found a woman wearing a pink tank top and a fanny pack. Spellman offered her condoms.  “I just want to make sure you’re safe while you’re working,” said Spellman.  “Don’t worry, I question them before getting in the car,” the woman said.  “I know, but you can’t ever tell these days,” Spellman said. “Too many other girls have been killed, and I just want to make sure you out here being safe, sugar.” [Read Article]