Yoga Studio Mourns Em Samolewicz, Trans Teacher And Slain Cyclist

DITMAS PARK, BROOKLYN — Ditmas Park's local yoga studio has three new candles lit in its lobby underneath a photo of Em Samolewicz, an artist and studio worker who became the 18th cyclist to die in a crash in New York City this year.

Third Root Community Health Center on Marlborough Road lost a staff member and friend when Samolewicz, 30, was fatally struck by a truck while riding her bicycle in Sunset Park on Monday, the owners said in an email to members.

"She brought her passion, humor, and creative sense to our space and made it her home," the Third Root staff wrote. "Our sadness is palpable along with our shock."

To mourn Samolewicz, a painter who hailed from Sunset Park, the studio has established a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for transwomen's healing and will provide free massage, acupuncture and yoga to trans women until Oct. 15, in honor of Samolewicz.

And on Tuesday evening, the yoga studio will host a small memorial where guests will be invited to make art, drink tea and celebrate Samolewciz' life.

"We hold Em and her loved ones in our hearts, along with all of you," the yoga studio told its members.

"We'll be sharing more opportunities to honor and celebrate her throughout our community as they arise."

Patch reached out to Third Root but they declined to comment until they could speak with Samolewicz' family.