A Nashville transgender woman is speaking out after a reported assault by a now-former employee of Black Tie Moving at Extra Space Storage on Charlotte Pike. The incident occurred on May 30, 2025, when Tyler Flanagan and a friend were moving items into a storage unit. They encountered a moving truck with employees from Black Tie Moving, and a verbal exchange escalated when the employees allegedly used homophobic slurs. Flanagan and her friend attempted to seek assistance from a storage facility employee but were told no escort could be provided. As they left the facility, the moving company employees continued to shout slurs, prompting Flanagan and her friend to report the incident to the office manager. While filing the complaint, a now-former employee of Black Tie Moving entered the lobby and struck Flanagan across the face, an act captured on surveillance footage.
Flanagan expressed her shock and fear, stating that the assault was the first time she had felt unsafe in Nashville, a city she considers welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community. She emphasized the seriousness of such situations for transgender individuals, noting that a significant percentage face violence and discrimination. The Metro Nashville Police Department responded to the incident, and the former employee was subsequently terminated by Black Tie Moving.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about the safety and treatment of transgender individuals, particularly in environments where they may face prejudice or hostility. Advocates continue to call for increased awareness and protections to ensure the safety and dignity of all individuals, regardless of gender identity.
