Trans Day Of Remembrance: what is TDOR and why is it important?

Marked on 20 November every year, we look back at the tragic history behind the powerful annual observance 

BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY INKDROP

Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is a vital annual observance dedicated to commemorating trans individuals whose lives have been lost to violence. Marked on 20 November each year, TDOR is a moment for reflection, mourning, and solidarity in the ongoing struggle for trans rights.

Its origins are rooted in tragedy 

The genesis of TDOR dates back to 1998, following the tragic murder of Rita Hester, a Black trans woman in Allston, Massachusetts. Rita was a vibrant figure in her community, known for her unapologetic authenticity and kindness. Her brutal death – coupled with the lack of coverage or respect from the media – galvanised trans activists to take action.  

In response, Gwendolyn Ann Smith, a trans advocate, organised a candlelight vigil to honour Rita’s life and draw attention to the epidemic of violence against trans people. This event laid the foundation for what would become TDOR. Smith later reflected on the movement’s beginnings, saying: “It’s about more than remembering those we’ve lost – it’s about raising awareness and pushing back against the discrimination that fuels this violence.”

It gained traction in the 2000s 

While the inaugural vigil was local, the need to acknowledge violence against trans individuals resonated globally. The next few years saw TDOR vigils emerging across the United States, spurred on by other tragic murders of trans women like Chanelle Pickett. By the early 2000s, it had grown into an international movement. Today, TDOR is observed in dozens of countries, from Brazil to the UK, shining a global spotlight on the urgent need to address transphobia.  

The day now serves a dual purpose: it memorialises those who have been murdered due to anti-trans hatred and raises awareness of the systemic issues that underpin such violence. Many vigils include the reading of names of trans individuals killed over the past year, a sombre reminder of the personal toll behind the statistics.  

Why does TDOR still matter? 

Despite progress in LGBTQIA rights, trans individuals – particularly trans women of colour – remain disproportionately targeted by violence. The rise in anti-trans rhetoric has been seen to have a real impact on trans lives, with TGEU’s annual Trans Murder Monitoring report stating that 350 trans individuals have been killed since their 2023 report. 

In many cases, these crimes are met with indifference or outright hostility by law enforcement, further perpetuating a culture of silence and erasure.  

TDOR serves as a stark reminder of these realities while also offering hope. It is a day to amplify trans voices, advocate for policy change, and demand justice for those who can no longer speak for themselves.  

Looking ahead

As we honour those lost, TDOR also urges us to look forward. The fight for trans rights is far from over, but the existence of this day underscores the strength and determination of a community united against hate. By continuing to educate, advocate, and celebrate trans lives, we can help ensure that TDOR remains not just a day of remembrance but a catalyst for change.  

Trans Day of Remembrance is more than a date on the calendar – it’s a call to action and a promise to never forget. 

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