Transgender Day of Remembrance 2025: Honoring Lives, Demanding Change

Transgender Day of Remembrance 2025: Honoring Lives, Demanding Change

What is Transgender Day of Remembrance?

Every year on November 20th, people remember transgender and gender-diverse people who were killed because of their gender identity. This day is called Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR).

Transgender activist Gwendolyn Ann Smith started this solemn day in 1999 as a vigil to remember Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed in 1998. Like most murders of transgender people, Rita's death is still unsolved.

What began as a candlelight vigil in San Francisco has turned into a worldwide movement that spans communities on six continents. TDOR has many goals: it raises awareness about hate crimes against transgender people, gives people a place to mourn and honour those who have died, and shows love and respect for transgender communities in the face of ongoing violence and hate.

Gwendolyn Ann Smith says, "Transgender Day of Remembrance seeks to highlight the losses we face due to anti-transgender bigotry and violence. I am no stranger to the need to fight for our rights, and the right to simply exist is first and foremost. With so many seeking to erase transgender people — sometimes in the most brutal ways possible — it is vitally important that those we lose are remembered, and that we continue to fight for justice."

TDOR occurs during Transgender Awareness Week (November 13-19), which helps raise visibility for transgender people and addresses issues the community faces. Together, these observances create a week of education, advocacy, and remembrance.

Why is Transgender Day of Remembrance Important?

A Sobering Reality

The Trans Murder Monitoring project by Transgender Europe says that between October 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024, 350 transgender and gender-diverse people were killed. This is a big jump from the 321 cases from the previous year and is one of the highest death tolls since monitoring began in 2008.

This year, the Trans Murder Monitoring project crossed a devastating milestone: over 5,000 documented murders of trans and gender-diverse people since 2008. These figures represent only reported cases, and the actual numbers are likely much higher due to unreporting, misgendering in death reports, and limited monitoring systems in many regions.

The data reveals troubling patterns. Approximately 94% of reported murders were of trans women or transfeminine people, and 93% of victims were Black trans people or trans people of colour. Nearly half of the victims with known occupations were sex workers, and 46% of all reported murders were shootings.

The Canadian Context

While Canada is often viewed as progressive on LGBTQ2S+ rights, transgender and gender-diverse Canadians face significant violence and discrimination.

According to self-reporting statistics from 2018, transgender and gender-diverse people in Canada were more likely than cisgender people to have experienced physical or sexual assault at least once since the age of 15. They were more than twice as likely to have been the victim of unwanted sexual behaviour in public places, such as at work.

According to the 2018 Survey of Safety in Public and Private Spaces, transgender and non-binary people in Canada are more likely than cisgender people to have been sexually or physically assaulted at least once since age 15 (59% versus 37%).

The Mental Health Crisis Among Trans Communities

The violence and discrimination faced by transgender people has profound mental health implications.

Alarming Statistics

More than six in ten transgender and non-binary people in Canada self-rated their mental health as fair or poor, compared with about one in ten cisgender people. Similarly, transgender and non-binary people in Canada were more likely than cisgender people to report having been diagnosed with a mood or anxiety disorder (61% versus 17%) or to have seriously contemplated suicide in their lifetimes (45% versus 16%).

Among youth aged 15 to 24, approximately one in four 2SLGBTQ+ youth reported thoughts of suicide in 2022, compared with 5% of cisgender heterosexual youth.

Understanding the Impact

A common explanation for poorer mental health outcomes among 2SLGBTQ+ populations is minority stress—chronic stress related to prejudice and negative social experiences. When Canadians were asked which populations faced the most stigma, 55% perceived that transgender individuals face a lot or quite a bit of stigma in their daily lives in Canada.

It is impossible to ignore the link between violence, discrimination, and mental health. In Canada, transgender and non-binary people were more likely than cisgender people to report using drugs or alcohol as a means to cope with the violence they encountered throughout their lives (36% compared to 11%).

Types of Violence and Challenges Faced by Trans Communities

Physical Violence

Trans people are victims of violence in many places. Over 25% of all murders happened on the street, and almost 25% happened in the victims' own homes.

The 2015 report "Being Safe, Being Me: Results of the Canadian Trans Youth Health Survey" found that 70% of participants had been sexually harassed and 65% had been discriminated against because of their gender identity. Thirty-six percent of high school students said they had been physically threatened or hurt in the past year, and 9% said they had been threatened or hurt with a weapon.

Systemic Barriers

Beyond direct violence, transgender people face numerous systemic challenges:

  • Economic Vulnerability: High rates of poverty and housing insecurity limit the ability to escape dangerous situations

  • Healthcare Barriers: Restricted access to gender-affirming health care and identification documents that reflect gender identity

  • Discrimination: Workplace discrimination, educational exclusion, and social marginalization

  • Legal Challenges: Difficulty obtaining accurate identity documents, navigating legal systems

  • Anti-Trans Legislation: Growing movements promoting discriminatory policies and rhetoric

Intersecting Forms of Discrimination

Violence against trans people is deeply intersectional, with 93% of reported murder victims being Black or Brown trans people. Trans people who are Indigenous, racialized, immigrants, sex workers, or living with disabilities face compounded discrimination and heightened risks.

Data from the Trans PULSE Canada Survey indicates that 20% of trans respondents reported physical assaults, with rates of violence significantly higher among racialized trans people.

The Rising Threat of Anti-Trans Movements

As we witness a rise in anti-trans legislation across Canada and around the world, and a growing anti-gender movement that poses serious threats of violence, Transgender Day of Remembrance reminds us of the urgency of dismantling systemic barriers and prejudice.

Legislation and policies that forcibly out transgender children to their parents, restrict access to puberty blockers and hormone therapy, require ministry approval of all teaching material on sexuality and gender, and force students into specific bathroom usage based on assigned sex at birth all contribute to environments where transgender people face increased risks.

The rhetoric and policies promoted by anti-gender movements fuel violence and create hostile environments for transgender people to exist safely.

How to Observe Transgender Day of Remembrance

Attend or Organize a Vigil

Vigils are the traditional way to observe TDOR. These events typically include:

  • Reading the names of those who have been lost to anti-transgender violence

  • Moments of silence and reflection

  • Sharing stories and experiences from the trans community

  • Lighting candles in remembrance

Vigils are often hosted by local transgender advocates or LGBTQ+ organizations and held at community centers, parks, places of worship, and other venues. Check with local organizations to find events in your area.

Educate Yourself and Others

  • Learn about transgender people, their experiences, and the issues they face

  • Share accurate information about TDOR on social media using hashtags like #TDOR, #TransDayOfRemembrance, and #TransAwarenessWeek

  • Challenge misconceptions and stereotypes when you encounter them

  • Read stories and accounts from transgender individuals to understand their lived experiences

Support Trans-Led Organizations

  • Donate to organizations working to support transgender communities

  • Volunteer your time and skills with local LGBTQ+ organizations

  • Amplify the voices of transgender advocates and activists on social media

  • Support transgender-owned businesses and creators

Advocate for Change

  • Contact your elected representatives to support policies protecting transgender rights

  • Advocate for inclusive policies in your workplace, school, or community

  • Challenge discriminatory legislation and practices

  • Support comprehensive anti-discrimination laws and hate crime legislation

Create Inclusive Spaces

In schools, workplaces, and communities, work to create environments where transgender people feel safe and supported:

  • Use correct names and pronouns

  • Provide gender-neutral bathroom options

  • Implement inclusive policies and practices

  • Address harassment and discrimination promptly and effectively

  • Provide training on transgender inclusion and competency

Supporting Trans Youth Mental Health

Young transgender people face particular challenges navigating identity development while experiencing discrimination and stigma. Creating supportive environments is essential for their mental health and wellbeing.

In Schools

  • Implement anti-bullying policies that specifically address gender identity

  • Provide access to gender-neutral facilities

  • Support students in using their chosen names and pronouns

  • Create Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSAs) or similar support groups

  • Train staff on transgender competency and support strategies

Related Resource: Supporting Students with School Phobia: A Guidebook for Families and Schools provides strategies for supporting students facing school-related challenges, including those linked to discrimination and mental health.

Building Resilience

Mental wellness strategies are crucial for transgender youth navigating challenging environments:

  • Developing strong support networks

  • Accessing affirming mental health care

  • Building coping skills for managing stress and discrimination

  • Connecting with transgender community and role models

  • Creating personal mental wellness action plans

When to Seek Additional Support

While TDOR is a day of remembrance, it can also be emotionally challenging. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, consider reaching out for support when:

  • Experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness

  • Having thoughts of self-harm or suicide

  • Feeling overwhelmed by discrimination or violence

  • Struggling to cope with daily life

  • Experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or trauma

Crisis Resources

If you or someone you know is in crisis, immediate help is available:

  • Trans Lifeline: 1-877-330-6366 (US and Canada)

  • Canada Suicide Prevention Service: 1-833-456-4566 (24/7) or text 45645

  • Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 (for youth) or text CONNECT to 686868

  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

For a comprehensive list of crisis supports in Canada and internationally, visit YMHC's Crisis Supports page.

YMHC Resources for Supporting Mental Wellness

Youth Mental Health Canada provides accessible resources to support mental wellness for all young people, including those in 2SLGBTQ+ communities:

Mental Wellness Workbooks

Our evidence-based workbooks incorporate therapeutic techniques to support mental health:

Digital Booklets

Quick, accessible resources for specific mental wellness topics:

Support Services

YMHC offers free support services to help individuals navigate mental health challenges:

Professional Training

For educators, mental health professionals, and community workers:

Moving Forward: From Remembrance to Action

Transgender Day of Remembrance is not just about looking back—it's about committing to action. While we honour those who have been lost, we must also work to create a world where transgender people can live safely, authentically, and with dignity.

This means:

  • Demanding Justice: Holding perpetrators of anti-transgender violence accountable and ensuring thorough investigations of crimes against trans people

  • Changing Systems: Advocating for policies and laws that protect transgender rights and address discrimination

  • Building Community: Creating supportive networks and inclusive spaces where transgender people can thrive

  • Educating Society: Challenging misconceptions and promoting understanding of transgender experiences

  • Supporting Mental Health: Ensuring transgender people have access to affirming mental health care and support services

Take Action Today

You don't need to wait for November 20th to support transgender communities. Here are concrete actions you can take:

  1. Educate yourself about transgender experiences and challenges

  2. Speak up when you witness discrimination or hear harmful rhetoric

  3. Support trans-led organizations through donations, volunteering, or amplifying their work

  4. Create inclusive spaces in your own spheres of influence

  5. Advocate for policies that protect transgender rights

  6. Be an ally by listening to and supporting transgender people in your life

Support YMHC's Work

At Youth Mental Health Canada, we're committed to providing accessible, evidence-based mental health resources to all young people, including those in 2SLGBTQ+ communities. Your support helps us:

  • Develop and distribute mental wellness workbooks and resources

  • Provide free support services to youth and families

  • Train professionals in youth mental health support

  • Advocate for inclusive and supportive environments for all young people

Ways to support YMHC:

Closing Reflection

As we observe Transgender Day of Remembrance 2025, we carry forward the names and stories of those who have been lost. We remember Rita Hester, whose death sparked this movement 26 years ago. We remember the 350 transgender and gender-diverse people lost this year alone. We remember the thousands more whose stories may never be known.

But remembrance is only the beginning. Each name we speak is a call to action. Each vigil we attend is a commitment to change. Each act of allyship, advocacy, and support is a step toward a world where transgender people can live without fear of violence, discrimination, or hatred.

Transgender Day of Remembrance reminds us that silence equals violence. By speaking up, showing up, and standing up for transgender rights and dignity, we honour those we have lost and protect those who are still here.

Let us remember. Let us act. Let us create change.

Back to blog