Black Trans Nonprofit Leader Accused of Misappropriating $99K for Mercedes and Luxury Items

The Fall of Dominique Morgan: A Betrayal in Trans Advocacy

In a shocking turn of events, Dominique Morgan, the former executive director of The Okra Project, a Brooklyn-based advocacy group for Black transgender individuals, has been accused of embezzling nearly $100,000 from a bail fund intended to support trans defendants facing incarceration. This alleged betrayal has sent ripples through the community that Morgan once championed, raising questions about trust, accountability, and the impact of leadership in nonprofit organizations.

Allegations of Misconduct

According to the Brooklyn District Attorney’s office, Morgan has been charged with one count of second-degree grand larceny and 23 counts of first-degree falsifying business records. The charges stem from accusations that she fabricated evidence of nonexistent Black trans women receiving assistance from the organization. Prosecutors allege that instead of using the funds to support vulnerable individuals, Morgan diverted approximately $99,000 into her personal bank account, using the money for personal expenses such as car payments, clothing, meals, and even a $19,000 closet renovation.

A Promising Career Turned Sour

Morgan’s tenure at The Okra Project was marked by significant achievements. Earning a salary exceeding $200,000 a year, she was recognized as a leader in the fight for trans rights, even being named one of the grand marshals of the New York City Pride Parade in 2022. That same year, her total compensation reportedly reached $328,000, a figure that underscores the trust and responsibility placed in her role.

Under her leadership, The Okra Project expanded its mission to include a bail initiative aimed at helping Black trans women navigate the criminal justice system. However, prosecutors assert that this initiative was never implemented, and no records of arrests or bail assistance exist to support Morgan’s claims.

The Investigation and Aftermath

The allegations came to light following an internal audit at The Okra Project, which revealed discrepancies in the records Morgan had submitted. The purported bail receipts for 23 individuals arrested in states like Georgia and Nebraska were found to be fabricated, leading to her termination from the organization.

Morgan was arrested recently and released without bail. If convicted, she faces a potential prison sentence of five to 15 years for the grand larceny charge. Her next court appearance is scheduled for December, as the community watches closely to see how this case unfolds.

A Complex Legacy

Morgan’s story is not just one of betrayal; it is also a narrative of resilience and transformation. Before her rise as a prominent advocate, she spent ten years incarcerated, including 18 months in solitary confinement. Her experiences shaped her commitment to social justice and advocacy for marginalized communities. In 2022, she was honored with a street named after her in Omaha, Nebraska, making her the first formerly incarcerated person in the state and the first Black trans woman in the U.S. to receive such an honor.

Reflecting on this recognition, Morgan stated, “For every queer and trans person who walks down Dominique Morgan Street, they will know that no matter where their story began, they will get to determine where their story ends.” This sentiment, however, now stands in stark contrast to the allegations against her.

The Broader Implications

The fallout from Morgan’s alleged actions raises critical questions about accountability within nonprofit organizations, particularly those serving marginalized communities. Trust is paramount in advocacy work, and the betrayal felt by colleagues and clients alike underscores the importance of transparency and ethical leadership.

As the LGBTQ+ community grapples with the implications of this case, it serves as a reminder of the complexities of human behavior and the potential for both great leadership and profound betrayal. The Okra Project, which has been a beacon of hope for many, now faces the challenge of rebuilding trust and ensuring that its mission continues to serve those in need.

In the coming months, as the legal proceedings unfold, the community will be watching closely, hoping for justice and a renewed commitment to the values that underpin the fight for equality and support for all marginalized individuals.