Transgender Day of Remembrance 2024

I sat at my desk for over an hour struggling what to write about TDoR. I have the date marked in my calendar and I understand its importance, but to be direct, this day weighs heavy on me.

Although Grooby is an adult entertainment company, we believe we have a responsibility to honor and uplift the community we’re in. We don’t generally participate in other trans awareness days (as Steven will say, we highlight the trans community 24/7 anyway), but Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR) holds a different significance.

TDoR is held annually on November 20th and honors trans individuals who died by anti-transgender violence in the past year. When examining the data, POC and SW-er identified trans individuals died by anti-transgender violence at an alarming higher rate than their counterparts. So today we pause to honor our community and hold space for those who need our support as allies.

For the unfamiliar, I’ve put together some background and history about TDoR and its impact to our community. I will also amend this blog post to include the names of those who have died this past year.

The History of Transgender Day of Remembrance

Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR) is an annual observance to honor the memory of transgender individuals whose lives were lost due to anti-transgender violence. It serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by transgender people and the ongoing need for advocacy and change in society. Here’s a look at the history and significance of TDoR.

The Origins of TDoR

Transgender Day of Remembrance was established in 1999 by Gwendolyn Ann Smith, a transgender woman, activist, and writer, in response to the tragic murder of Rita Hester, a transgender woman of color, in Allston, Massachusetts. Rita’s death went largely unreported, and Smith sought to create a way to honor her and others who died due to anti-transgender violence.

Smith created a memorial website for Rita, which grew into a larger project to honor transgender victims of violence. This project eventually became TDoR, first observed on November 20, 1999. Over time, it has grown into a global observance, highlighting the violence faced by transgender individuals, particularly transgender women of color.

The Significance of the Date

November 20 was chosen because it marks the anniversary of Rita Hester’s death. The date has since become a day to reflect not only on individual murders but also on the systemic violence and discrimination faced by transgender people, such as in healthcare, employment, and hate crimes.

TDoR events, including vigils and ceremonies, often feature the reading of names of the deceased and moments of silence. These events aim to memorialize those lost and raise awareness about the issues leading to violence against transgender people.

Expanding the Conversation

Originally focused on remembering those murdered, TDoR has evolved to address the broader struggles of the transgender community. It highlights issues like transphobia, gender nonconformity, and the need for legal protections. The event encourages public conversations about these challenges while celebrating the resilience of transgender people and advocating for societal change.

TDoR has grown in visibility, with communities and allies coming together worldwide to mark the day. Though somber, it also serves as a rallying point for advocacy, calling for resources and the elimination of violence and discrimination against transgender people.

The Impact of TDoR

TDoR has had a significant impact by bringing global attention to anti-transgender violence, influencing policies, fostering solidarity, and educating the public. It reminds society that each life lost is a person, not just a statistic, and emphasizes the need to address the violence that often goes unnoticed compared to other marginalized groups.

Looking Forward

As we continue to observe TDoR, the hope is that it becomes a day for both mourning and action. Although the number of transgender deaths due to violence continues to rise, increased visibility and advocacy offer hope. TDoR serves not only as a solemn reminder but as a beacon for change, urging individuals, organizations, and governments to create safer, more equitable societies for all people, regardless of gender identity.

Transgender Day of Remembrance is more than just an event—it is a movement to honor those lost and push for a world where no transgender individual is subject to violence, discrimination, or hate. It reminds us all to work toward a more inclusive, respectful, and compassionate world for everyone.