Today is Transgender Day of Remembrance, begun in 1999 to memorialize the murder of transgender woman Rita Hester in Allston, Massachusetts. It has spread around the world with some places giving a more official recognition. In Ontario, Canada the province unanimously passed the Trans Day of Remembrance Act in 2017, and the Legislative Assembly there is now required to hold a moment of silence every year on November 20.
So what else happens on this day? Typically there is a reading of the names of those who lost their lives from November 20 of the former year to November 20 of the current year. Sometimes there are speakers, marches, and candlelight vigils. Newspapers will often devote a separate section today as well.
This is a sad occasion though - make no mistake about it. Transphobic violence is a frightening occurrence that spreads fear to the transgender community and to their families and friends. That violence so often leads to death. Nobody should have to live in fear, yet many transgender people are even afraid to use public restrooms. This needs to change, not only here in the United States, but around the world. Trans violence is a hate crime that, when it occurs, needs to be fully prosecuted.
Transgender Day of Remembrance is an observance that I would like to see disappear, because the murder of our trans sisters and brothers needs to stop. We can do it. Take a stand against hate. Don't let it continue.
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