Transgender Day of Remembrance Statement November 20th 2024

Dear students and colleagues,

Content warning: discussion of anti-trans violence and lives lost

Today we are recognizing the Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR), a day in which we remember and honour Two-Spirit, trans, and non-binary people who are targeted and killed for living authentically and courageously.

To push back against the disproportionate way in which violence against queer people (especially Black trans women) are neglected by society, the first vigil was held to commemorate the life of Rita Hester and all trans people who had died due to anti-trans hatred. To this day, TDoR vigils are observed annually on November 20th worldwide in honour of those lost to acts of violence and discrimination.

Transgender Day of Remembrance is a day to mourn those lost to us. TDoR is also a day of celebration, by acknowledging the strength of the trans community in the face of erasure and marginalization. Finally, it is a day of action, in which we commit to fighting transphobia every day in the hopes of a safer, brighter future.

To learn more about Transgender Day of Remembrance and how to be an ally to the trans community, we encourage you to explore the following resources:

• What is Transgender Day of Remembrance?
• Tips for Allies of Transgender People
• Get connected with your local community: Pride Centre of Edmonton
• Transgender Day of Remembrance at the Alberta Avenue Community Centre

As members of the Psychology EDI Committee, we are resolute in our commitment to creating accessible, diverse, inclusive, and equitable classrooms and work environments. We are here to support you, so feel welcome to reach out with any questions, requests, or suggestions.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Passey (Chair of the Psychology EDI Committee)

Sent on behalf of the Psychology EDI Committee