Nov. 20 marks the 25th year of Transgender Day of Remembrance in Canada, which remembers the lives of those who were lost due to anti-trans violence. To raise aware- ness of transgender individuals and the challenges they encounter, organizations and individuals nationwide take part in Transgender Awareness Week every year from Nov. 13 to 19.
Gwendolyn Ann Smith, a transgender woman and advocate for the transgender community, established the Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) in 1999 as a vigil to remember Rita Hester, a black transgender woman who was murdered in 1998. In addition to honoring all the transgender individuals who have been killed by violence since Rita Hester’s passing, the vigil established a significant custom that has grown into the yearly Transgender Day of Remembrance.
“Transgender Awareness Week takes place in the week leading up to the TDOR. It’s an opportunity for allies to educate themselves on the issues facing trans folks in their community,” said Scott Williams, the executive director of Spectrum, Waterloo Region’s Rainbow Community Space.
Transgender Awareness Week is celebratory and organizations such as It Gets Better Canada and Egale Canada put together virtual toolkits with articles and videos that are used in businesses and schools to increase awareness and visibility of transgender and gender-diverse individuals.
“Transgender Day of Remembrance is a day to remember all those whose voices were not able to be heard, for those who never got to be themselves. But also, to remember those who fought for our rights,” said Cambridge local Brock O’Neil, who identifies as non-binary. “To those who want to be a better ally, connect with any of your queer family, learn our history and most importantly, always be kind and accepting. Choose love, not hate.”
For Williams, allyship starts with education. He says that individuals should do research and find resources that help them understand issues that the transgender community is facing.
“Once people have educated themselves, they can help by amplifying the voices of trans people,” said Williams. “If you’re on social media, follow trans folks and see what they’re talking about. Help to spread the word about what’s happening.”
Williams also suggested participating in workshops that educate on transgender inclusion, including Spectrum’s Rainbow Diversity Training. He advised that allies follow the work of national organizations, like Queer Momentum, who advocate for safe communities.
Spectrum’s Rainbow Diversity Training is a service that helps companies or organizations become more welcoming, accepting and adapting towards people of all genders. To assist companies in becoming more inclusive and inviting to 2SLGBTQIA+ employees, clients and other partners or stakeholders, Spectrum provides a range of workshops in 2SLGBTQIA+ cultural competency.
This refers to making 2SLGBTQIA+ employees and clients to feel safe and included in the workplace. Of the actions that can be taken to support, voting is still one of the most important. Williams said voting is still one of the most important actions that can be taken by allies to support 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.
“One can’t be an ally to 2SLGBTQIA+ people if you’re voting for candidates or parties that would take away the rights of trans people and endanger 2SLGBTQIA+ children and youth with their policies,” said Williams.
