The Center on Colfax stands alongside our fellow community leaders in solidarity with the loved ones of Jax Gratton, a beloved member of Colorado’s trans community who was taken from this world far too soon. Jax was reported missing in April and was found in June 2025. In the time since, her loved ones have encountered painful delays and a lack of clarity from local institutions and have worked for months to make meaningful asks of the city of Lakewood, its police department, and Jefferson County’s Coroner’s office.

“No mother should have to face what Jax’s mother has been going through. We stand with Jax’s mother and the community members who have been fighting tirelessly for Jax,” said Kim Salvaggio, CEO of The Center on Colfax. “This moment calls for accountability, compassion, collaboration, and change."

The Center on Colfax joins Jax’s loved ones, along with One Colorado, Rocky Mountain Equality, YouthSeen, and Black Pride Colorado in calling for the establishment of an independent oversight committee to ensure Jax’s passing is fully investigated.

"Jax deserves the same respect we would give to any human being, especially someone who has been lost to violence,” said Joy Iwancio, Director of Transgender Services at The Center on Colfax. “The fact that Jax has been misgendered throughout the investigation process thus far is an additional cruelty imposed on someone who cannot speak for herself.”

This situation reflects a broader crisis in how trans people, especially trans women of color, are too often denied the humanity, protection, and recognition they deserve. Our community believes there is an opportunity now for city leaders and law enforcement to partner with us to build trust, transparency, and a more just path forward.  

 We encourage community members, partners, and the media to join us in packing the Lakewood City Council meeting on Monday, August 11 at 6:30 PM (480 S Allison Parkway, Lakewood). If you cannot make the meeting, we encourage you to email citycouncilmembers@lakewood.org and call Jefferson County Commissioners to express concerns at 303-271-8525. 

 We will remember Jax as a friend, a daughter, an activist, an artist, and above all else, a human deserving of respect and dignity. 

 Justice for Jax. Now.