Transgender Day of Remembrance

CeCe McDonald at SF LGBT Center

File:Transgender pride flag at the California State Capitol on the Trans Day of Remembrance 2019.ogv Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is an annual observance on November 20th that honors the memory of the transgender people whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence. The event was started in 1999 by transgender advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith as a vigil to honor the memory of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed in 1998. The vigil commemorated all the transgender people lost to violence since Rita Hester's death, and began an important tradition that has become the annual Transgender Day of Remembrance.

History

The Transgender Day of Remembrance was initially inspired by the shocking murder of Rita Hester, whose death highlighted the lack of attention given to violence against transgender people by the media and society. Gwendolyn Ann Smith, a transgender graphic designer, columnist, and activist, organized the first memorial in 1999. Since then, TDOR has evolved from the web-based project started by Smith into an international day of action. In 2010, TDOR was observed in over 185 cities throughout more than 20 countries.

Purpose

The primary purpose of TDOR is to raise public awareness of hate crimes against transgender people, an action that current media does not perform. TDOR serves as a public memorial to those who have been killed as a result of transphobia and helps to bring attention to the continued violence endured by the transgender community. The Transgender Day of Remembrance seeks to advance advocacy for transgender rights and affirm the value of transgender lives.

Observance

TDOR is observed in late November to honor the memory of those whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence. The day is marked by vigils, marches, and other events that are held in various locations worldwide. These observances often include reading the names of those who have died in the past year, moments of silence, speeches, and candlelight vigils. Community centers, parks, places of worship, and campuses are common venues for these memorials.

Impact

The Transgender Day of Remembrance has played a crucial role in both memorializing those who have been lost and in highlighting the urgent need for change. It has helped foster a sense of community and support among transgender people and their allies. Additionally, TDOR has increased visibility of transgender issues and has been instrumental in advocating for the rights and dignity of transgender individuals.

Criticism

While TDOR is widely respected for its significance and impact, it has also faced criticism. Some argue that the day focuses too much on victimhood and not enough on the strength and resilience of the transgender community. Others believe that more emphasis should be placed on preventing violence against transgender people, rather than only memorializing those who have died.

See Also

• Transgender rights
• Violence against transgender people
• LGBT rights by country or territory
• History of transgender people in the United States

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