Commemorating Transgender Awareness Week
Transgender Awareness Week runs from November 13-19 and leads into Transgender Day of Remembrance/Resilience (TDOR), an annual observance on November 20 that honors the memory of the transgender people whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence that year. While TDOR began as a day to remember the trans individuals who are no longer with us, it has grown to include a celebration of the resiliency of the trans community by acknowledging that their very existence is an act of resistance, power, and courage.
This week aims to raise awareness of the issues that members of the community face, which include barriers to healthcare, discriminatory housing and employment practices, and lack of legal protections. In this year alone, 583 anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been proposed across the nation, which would deny access to basic healthcare, legal recognition, education, bathrooms, athletics, or the right to openly exist in public schools.
As such while this week is an important moment for transgender and non-binary inclusion, we recognize that being inclusive is a year-round effort. As allies, we can show our support for the trans community through fostering a safe and equitable workplace, and continually creating an inclusive and supportive environment.
Resources:
The Trans Lifeline: Call their hotline at (877) 565-8860. The Trans Lifeline is run by trans people for trans people and does not engage in non-consensual active rescue, meaning they will not call law enforcement without your consent.
Call BlackLine is a BIPOC LGBTQ+ support line, run by BIPOC folks for BIPOC folks. This resource does not involve law enforcement or state agencies. You can call (800) 604-5841 to chat with a peer.
Adults (folks 18+) can text THRIVE Lifeline which is trans-led and operated. Text “THRIVE” to (313) 662-8209 to begin your conversation. THRIVE Lifeline does not call emergency services for people that are at risk of harming themselves without their consent.