Each year, we observe Transgender Day of Remembrance. Today, vigils are taking place globally to commemorate those who have fallen victim to anti-trans violence and to emphasize the importance of ongoing efforts to support transgender communities in addressing this critical issue.
Transgender individuals, particularly transgender people of color, endure some of the highest rates of violent crime, with 70% of trans youth in Canada facing various forms of sexual harassment or violence.
The effects of this crisis on mental health are significant. Transgender and non-binary youth are over twice as likely to have considered self-harm in their lives compared to their cisgender counterparts (individuals whose gender identity aligns with the sex assigned to them at birth).
These alarming statistics, along with the increasing prevalence of hateful rhetoric directed at 2SLGBTQI+ communities in Canada, are completely unacceptable.
We encourage everyone to reflect on the significance of this day of mourning. Together, we must combat the attitudes and behaviors that endanger the lives of transgender individuals. It is essential to put an end to the violence faced by trans communities.
Everyone deserves to feel safe in their homes, on our streets, and within our communities.