International Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is an annual observance held on November 20th that honours the memory of transgender, gender diverse and non-binary people whose lives have been lost to anti-transgender violence. For Transgender Victoria, it's a deeply significant day for our TGD communities, allies, and supporters to come together, mourn, and reflect on the pervasive violence and discrimination that trans people continue to face.
This day was founded in 1999 by Gwendolyn Ann Smith, a transgender advocate, to memorialise Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was murdered in Allston, Massachusetts. Since then, it has grown into an international event, observed in cities around the world, serving as a poignant reminder of the lives tragically cut short and a call to action for greater acceptance and safety for all TGD people.
The Stats are Grim
63% of TGD people have experienced serious acts of discrimination. [1]
Transgender, gender diverse and non-binary people face disproportionately high levels of loneliness (83%) and isolation (77%). [2]
Over 75% of TGD individuals in Victoria experience depression and anxiety, and 40% have seriously considered suicide in the past 12 months. [3]
Why TDOR is Crucial for Our TGD Communities
As Australia's largest trans-led peer support charity, Transgender Victoria understands the profound importance of community and connection. TDOR serves multiple crucial purposes, especially within our Trans Month program of trans-centric events:
Honouring Lives: It provides a dedicated time to remember and acknowledge the individuals we have lost. Each name read aloud represents a unique life, a story, and a person who deserved to live fully and authentically.
Raising Awareness: TDOR brings much-needed attention to the violence and prejudice faced by TGD communities. It highlights the urgent need for societal change, legal protections, and increased understanding to prevent further tragedies.
Building Community and Solidarity: For many TGD people, TDOR, as part of our Trans Month, is a vital opportunity to gather, grieve collectively, and find strength in shared experiences.
Trans Day of Remembrance Vigil, Melbourne 2024
"Sharing the occasion with other trans people makes me feel seen and less alone in my grief. It’s a powerful reminder that we are a strong and resilient community, and we will continue to fight for a world where all trans lives are valued." - Shaam, they/them
Advocating for Change: By shedding light on the harsh realities faced by TGD communities, TDOR ignites conversations and motivates action towards creating a safer, more inclusive world for everyone. It underscores the importance of advocating for social, financial, legal, employment, training, education, events, and networking opportunities that support TGD people to live their best lives.
How Transgender Victoria Observes TDOR
Each year we host a community vigil on TDOR. It’s a somber occasion, but also a day for hope and commitment to a better future. It also forms a central part of our Trans Month program – a month-long series of trans-centric events designed to uplift, connect, and celebrate our TGD communities.
You can observe Transgender Day of Remembrance with us and in your own way:
Attend a Trans Month event: Keep an eye on our website and social media for details on our TDOR commemoration and other Trans Month activities. These events are designed to be safe spaces for our communities to come together.
Educate yourself and others: Learn more about the challenges faced by TGD communities and share accurate information with your friends, family, and colleagues.
Support TGD-led organisations: As Australia's largest trans-led peer support charity, Transgender Victoria works tirelessly for, with, and by TGD communities to achieve better social, economic, and health outcomes. Your support helps us continue our vital work through initiatives like our Affirmation Station and Peer Navigation services.
Speak out against discrimination: Challenge anti-transgender rhetoric and actions whenever you encounter them.
Be an ally: Whether you are trans, gender diverse, non-binary, an ally, or you’re still exploring your gender, TGV is here to support you on your gender journey.
Trans Day of Remembrance reminds us that the fight for equality and acceptance is far from over. By remembering those we have lost and committing to action, we can work towards a future where all transgender, gender diverse and non-binary people can live authentically, safely, and joyfully.
