In an uplifting development, Manchester has announced plans for a National Trans Monument, set to rise in the city’s renowned Gay Village. This historic initiative, led by the transgender charity Sparkle in collaboration with LGBTQ+ and women-led architectural firm New Practice and global consultancy Arup, aims to replace the previous National Trans Memorial sculpture that suffered irreparable damage by fire in 2022. The project, a culmination of two years of meticulous design and extensive consultations with diverse, trans, and gender-non-conforming communities across Greater Manchester and the UK, reflects a deep commitment to inclusivity and representation.
A Visionary Design Celebrating Trans Resilience
The proposed monument, aptly named “Passing on Light,” is the brainchild of Bek Ziola, a senior designer at New Practice. Ziola’s design not only provides a serene space for reflection but also symbolizes the resilience and vitality of the trans community. “It was essential that the monument resonate with the lived experiences and aspirations of the trans individuals it is meant to honor,” remarked Jay Crawford, chairperson of Sparkle’s board. The initiative also seeks to shift the narrative from trans individuals as mere subjects of memorial to figures of monumental inspiration and strength.
Pioneering Social Value Through Inclusive Design
Marc Cairns, managing director at New Practice, highlighted the broader social implications of such projects. “This is about creating real social value through direct engagement and active contributions to underrepresented communities,” he stated. The design incorporates durable materials like polished metal and stone, intended to mature gracefully while mirroring the fortitude of those it commemorates. Each element of the monument—from its reflective surfaces to its robust structure—is imbued with symbolic meanings that reinforce the monument’s message of resilience and hope.
This landmark project in Manchester not only marks a significant step in honoring the trans community but also serves as a beacon of progress and inclusivity, promising to be a site of reflection and celebration for all who visit.