The National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE) has launched an online memorial, Trans Remembrance, to honor the lives of 109 transgender and non-binary individuals who have passed away in the past year. Coinciding with Transgender Awareness Week and ahead of Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20, the website aims to celebrate the fullness of the lives lost, not just the tragedies of their deaths.
Celebrating Diverse Lives and Contributions
Trans Remembrance features names, photos, and biographies of deceased individuals, including trans, nonbinary, gender nonconforming, genderqueer, agender, and intersex people. The website’s eulogy emphasizes the enduring impact and legacy of these individuals, highlighting their passion, love, art, activism, and hope. This initiative seeks to illuminate the significant contributions made by the trans community, reinforcing that their presence and impact are everlasting.
Inclusion of Various Individuals
The memorial includes well-known figures such as Atlanta police reform activist Tortuguita, trans photographer Loren Cameron, and others, alongside lesser-known individuals whose stories have been brought to light through community submissions and extensive research. This inclusive approach ensures that those who might otherwise be overlooked receive recognition for their true selves.
Addressing the Crisis of Violence and Discrimination
The Trans Remembrance site also sheds light on the increasing hate crimes and anti-trans legislation in the U.S., emphasizing the need for broader awareness and action. The NCTE’s 2023 Remembrance Report discusses the current challenges faced by the trans community, including healthcare discrimination, employment and housing insecurity, and targeted legislative attacks.
A Call for Recognition and Change
Through Trans Remembrance, the NCTE urges the recognition of each individual’s true identity and the collective struggle for rights and safety. The site is a poignant reminder of the many lives lost and a call to action to address the systemic issues affecting the trans community. The memorial serves as a platform for advocacy and education, aiming to foster a more inclusive and understanding society.
Trans Remembrance is a powerful testament to the lives and legacies of those in the transgender and non-binary community who have passed away. It serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by this community and the urgent need for societal change. Through this online memorial, the NCTE not only honors the deceased but also raises awareness about the broader issues of discrimination and violence against transgender and non-binary individuals.