November 20 is Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), which memorializes those who have lost their life as a result of transphobia, across the globe. First marked in 1999, TDOR founder Gwendolyn Ann Smith emphasized the need for the trans community and their allies to counter transphobia: “The right to 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.”
On O'ahu, TDOR is also an occasion to celebrate the lives of elders of the trans community who have passed. From 6-8 PM on Saturday, November 20, HHHRC's Kuaana Project will host an online event that will feature entertainment and personal stories from members of the trans community, video presentations, and a roll call of those who have passed. Hawai'i House Majority Leader Della Au Belatti will also deliver brief remarks in support of our state's trans community.
"We extend a warm invitation to all who wish to honor the lives of those who have passed and to recognize the importance of building a beloved community that respects and values the dignity and worth of every person," said Kua'ana Project Manager Maddie Sesepasara.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this year's program will be held online. To access our virtual program, register online with the Kua'ana Project.
Nationally trans and non-binary people are still fighting for visibility and dignity in an increasingly hostile political climate despite recent gains in law and policy. The U.S. Supreme Court extended federal employment protections on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation under Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act just over a year ago. The Biden Administration has restored rights for trans persons in the context of health care and military service.
Yet recent news reports indicate that anti-trans violence is on the rise in America. According to the Human Rights Campaign, 2021 is already the deadliest year for trans and non-binary people on record. Many states are passing anti-trans legislation in the context of student sports and books with trans stories are among those poised for removal from public libraries.
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