Trans Day of Remembrance: Honouring Lives Lost “
On November 20th each year, the world pauses to observe Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR). This solemn day is dedicated to honouring the memory of transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals who have lost their lives due to acts of anti-transgender violence.
A Day of Remembrance and Action
TDOR was founded in 1999 by Gwendolyn Ann Smith to memorialize Rita Hester, a transgender woman murdered in Allston, Massachusetts, in 1998. Since then, it has become an annual global event to raise awareness about the violence and discrimination faced by the transgender community.
The day typically involves vigils, memorials, and other events where communities gather to remember those who have been lost. Participants often read the names of those who have been killed, share personal stories, and engage in discussions about the ongoing struggle for transgender rights and equality.
The Importance of TDOR
TDOR serves several crucial purposes:
- Honouring the Lost: It provides a space to remember and honour the lives of transgender individuals who have been victims of violence.
- Raising Awareness: TDOR helps to bring attention to the ongoing issue of anti-transgender violence and discrimination.
- Promoting Advocacy: The day encourages individuals and organizations to advocate for policies and practices that protect the rights and safety of transgender people.
- Building Community: TDOR fosters a sense of community and solidarity among transgender individuals and their allies.
Beyond Remembrance
While TDOR is a day of mourning, it is also a call to action. It is a reminder that we must work towards a world where all transgender people can live their lives free from fear and discrimination.
Here are some ways you can support the transgender community and help prevent future tragedies:
- Educate Yourself: Learn about the challenges faced by transgender people and the importance of using inclusive language.
- Support Transgender Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that advocate for transgender rights.
- Speak Out Against Discrimination: Challenge transphobic language and behavior when you see it.
- Be an Ally: Offer support and understanding to transgender individuals in your life.
TEP specially honours Abuja Area Mama, a Nigerian transgender TikToker, who was brutally murdered in Abuja, Nigeria in August 2024 and Bamanga Rabiu, also known as Rabina who was allegedly murdered in cold blood at Ruga in the Abuja, Nigeria in 2018.
By honouring the lives lost and taking action to create a more inclusive and just world, we can work towards a future where trans people live without fear.
