Transgender Day of Remembrance

November 20 was Transgender Day of Remembrance. A day to recognize and remember those whose lives have been lost to antitransgender violence, harassment, discrimination and disenfranchisement, which occurs daily to transgender people.

80% are people of color, 55% were transgender women and 50% were transgender women of color.  Transgender women are survivors of hate and violence and are more likely to experience police violence, physical violence, discrimination, harassment, sexual violence, threats and intimidation compared to those women who were not transgender.  

As a consequence of the Covid -19 pandemic, as well as growing racism, police brutality; the lives of trans and gender non-conforming people are at even greater risk.  Trans and gender diverse people report significant experiences of stigma and discrimination. They also report negative experiences related to family rejection, neglect, or family dysfunctions, unemployment, underemployment and homelessness.  Suicide isn’t the single cause of death.  MURDER IS!

The current social culture surrounding transgender individuals is hostile and depressing.  On this Day of Remembrance let’s take a moment to remember the thousands of lives lost.  Thousands of bright minds, kind souls, and loving hearts were wiped out simply due to HATRED!!!

This is an opportunity to remember those we have lost in such horrific circumstances.  May we come together to overcome division in our community, heal, grieve with other people affected by this terrible issue and attempt to find a way to educate ourselves and those who are transphobic.