The Okra Project, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Black trans individuals, has found itself at the center of a public controversy. On June 5, 2026, executive director Gabrielle Souza released a comprehensive video addressing allegations made by former executive director Dominique Morgan regarding her termination and subsequent legal issues.
Souza’s video, posted on the Okra Project’s website, aims to clarify the events surrounding Morgan’s departure and the allegations of embezzlement. The controversy has sparked widespread discussion and speculation within the community and online.
Timeline of Events and Allegations
Dominique Morgan served as the executive director of the Okra Project from January 2026 to August 2026. The organization focuses on providing essential resources such as food security, housing stability, and mental health support to Black trans people. In 2026, Morgan was indicted by Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez for allegedly misappropriating nearly $100,000 from the nonprofit. The funds, intended for incarcerated trans individuals, were reportedly diverted to Morgan’s personal bank account.
Morgan pleaded guilty to the charges in April 2026, which included one count of second-degree grand larceny and 23 counts of falsifying business records. She was held at Rikers Island for 30 days and subsequently sentenced to five years probation. Following her plea and arrest, online speculation about the events leading up to her termination and the nature of the alleged embezzlement began to circulate.
Gabrielle Souza’s Response
In her video, Souza emphasizes that her intention is not to drag anyone or act out of anger but to address and correct misinformation. She states, “I am not here to perform accountability. I’m here because there are things being said publicly that must be addressed and corrected.” Souza provides a detailed timeline of events, from the alleged misappropriation of funds to Morgan’s dismissal and the subsequent steps taken by the organization to address the financial issues.
The video, which was initially removed from YouTube due to reports of alleged bullying and online harassment, was later reinstated. Souza presents screenshots of emails and other documentation to substantiate her claims. She also mentions that Alana Giselle Banks, who was present during Morgan’s tenure, reviewed the documents. Souza contradicts several claims made by Morgan, including the assertion that the nonprofit was partially responsible for the criminal grand larceny investigation and that the Okra Project’s staff determined her $250,000 salary.
The Okra Project’s Current Situation
Souza addresses the current fundraiser launched by the nonprofit on March 31, 2026, aimed at raising $100,000. The organization has been financially depleted following the bankruptcy of its fiscal sponsor in 2026. Souza expresses her exhaustion from dealing with the ordeal but emphasizes the organization’s commitment to transparency and accountability. She concludes by stating, “Our obligation is to the community we serve — Black trans people who depend on us to be here and to be honest.”
The controversy surrounding the Okra Project highlights the complexities and challenges faced by nonprofits, particularly those serving marginalized communities. As the organization moves forward, it remains dedicated to its mission of supporting Black trans individuals and addressing the financial and operational issues that have arisen.
