Today (20th November) is Trans Day of Remembrance. This is an international day of commemoration that memoralises the lives lost in the course of the year due to transphobia and it also raises awareness of the violence trans people can face simply because they are trans. The Trans Day of Remembrance began in 1998 in the United States in response to the murder of Rita Hester, a trans woman.
Violence and discrimination remains a feature of many trans people’s lives in Ireland. In the Speaking from the Margins report, 20% reported experiencing domestic abuse, 16% said they had been hit or beaten up, 12% had been sexually assaulted and 6% had been raped as a direct result of their trans identity.
“Trans people are becoming increasingly visible and vocal, and we are now seeing positive depictions of our diverse community in the media. Nonetheless, many trans individuals still face violence and discrimination. From low level everyday harassment to much more serious crimes, and this needs to end,” said TENI Chief Executive Broden Giambrone.
Since 2013, TENI has been running the Stop Transphobia and Discrimination (STAD) campaign. This campaign documents hate crimes and incidents against trans people. Since January 2014, TENI has received 41 reports of violence, harassment, abuse and discrimination against trans people in Ireland.
“We believe this is just the tip of the iceberg. Many individuals will not report these crimes of incidents at all. In STAD we found that 56% did not report the incident to the Gardaí. Not only does this violence need to end but we need to ensure that if it happens, that trans people are supported to report these crimes.”
Trans Day of Remembrance Ceremony
The 9th Trans Day of Remembrance Ceremony takes place in Dublin on Saturday 22nd November at 8pm at the Unitarian Church.
“It is important for us to remember those of our community who have suffered and that even in Ireland today, society still does not treat trans people with respect and dignity. In its 9th year, the remembrance ceremony provides an opportunity for us to reflect and honour those who have been lost to us,” said TENI Chairperson Sara R. Phillips.
This event will commemorate the lives injured and lost due to transphobia through candle lighting, speeches and songs. We will also look forward to a bright new future and the ways in which we can ensure better lives for trans people in Ireland.
“We must strive to celebrate the positives. Trans people no longer live in the shadows, we are making progress toward equality but we must never forget, never forget the violence, disrespect and inequality that trans people still suffer today worldwide,” concluded Phillips.
Ceremony Details
Trans Day of Remembrance Ceremony:
Date: Saturday 22nd November
Time: 8PM
Location: Unitarian Church, 112 St. Stephens Green, Dublin. Map is available here.
The ceremony is organised by Sara Phillips, Lynda Sheridan and TENI. Supported by Running Amach, the Unitarian Church and the Lord Mayor’s Office.
