Transgender Day of Remembrance

Transgender Day of Remembrance is held annually on November 20th and is dedicated to remembering transgender victims of fatal violence. It was formed in 1999 by Transgender activist Gwendolyn Ann-Smith as a vigil to honour the memory of Rita Hester, a transgender woman murdered in 1998. The day has since become global, bringing awareness to the continued violence endured by the transgender community.


Honoured with candlelight vigils and community gatherings, victims’ stories are shared to commemorate their lives and deaths. Tragically, it’s become tradition to make special mention of victims of violence or death within that year, demonstrating just how much work there’s still to be done. On this day, we stand together for greater acceptance, understanding, and protection of transgender rights and the continued movement towards a society where everyone is respected and allowed to live authentically and without fear.


Relevant Hashtags: #TransgenderDayofRemembrance


Learn More: glaad.org/tdor