In November of 2012 19-year-old Sage Smith vanished after leaving her apartment in Charlottesville, Virginia. Sage was confident, vibrant, and full of life. A young black transgender woman navigating her truth in a world that often refused to see her fully. 

In this episode, we explore the final hours before Sage's disappearance, the mysterious connection to Erik McFadden, and the frustrating years that followed as her family fought for answers. We honor Sage's story and speak truth about the realities facing missing transgender women of color in America. Sage's disappearance is more than just a mystery; it's a reflection of how society often fails to protect its more vulnerable.  

We uncover how bias and systemic neglect can shape whose stories are told and whose are forgotten. 

Because Sage's story matters. Her truth matters. And justice for her matters. Ten years later her family is still fighting for that justice. And we're not letting the world forget her name. 

Sources:

https://www.facebook.com/hopeforsage/

https://www.charlottesville.gov/CivicAlerts.asp?AID=917&ARC=1843

https://www.reddit.com/r/WithoutATrace/comments/1gns3tp/in_2012_my_friend_sage_smith_vanished_from/

https://storiesoftheunsolved.com/2020/05/02/the-disappearance-of-sage-smith/

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?mibextid=N9fs7i&v=1282704005433974&rdid=Kwmn9hsA6MvIJ1rn

https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/missing-in-america/transgender-teen-sage-smith-still-missing-after-vanishing-virginia-2012-n943216

And They Were Gone Podcast- 2 Part Series 

Crime Junkie Podcast 

The Daily Progress 12/2/2012

The Daily Progress 12/4/2012