Since 2015, at least 29 transgender and gender-nonconforming people have been killed in the state of Florida.
In their honor, and for the fallen siblings in the community around the country, people celebrate Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) on Nov. 20. The day of memorial was started by transgender advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith in 1999 to remember the life of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed the previous year. The community carries on this tradition, but with vigils and moments of silence, as well as jubilant gatherings to celebrate the triumphs.
“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,” Smith said.
Here are TDOR events going on around town:
THURSDAY, NOV. 16
Trans advocacy groups such as Transinclusive Group, The McKenzie Project, TransSOCIAL, Arianna's Center and more are gathering for the annual State of the Trans Community town hall and panel discussion from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Hosted at the Our Fund Foundation Auditorium at ArtServe in Fort Lauderdale, attendees will be able to learn about the latest triumphs and battles that the community faces. There will be food, drinks and entertainment at the event.
SATURDAY, NOV. 18
Breathing While Black & Trans Extravaganza
In its second year, the gender justice and protection fashion show, rally and health fair brings together organizations and the community to learn from one another as well as enjoy food, drinks and resources. Bring a friend to this event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Freedom Lab in Miami!
SUNDAY, NOV. 19
Here’s to Life: A Trans Joy & Liberation Art Exhibit
Meet the artists behind this exhibit created by trans folx and allies at the Hotspots Magazine Art Gallery space in Wilton Manors. The event from 5 to 8 p.m. will be hosted by Miss International Queen 2023 Solange Dekker with words by Rajee Narinesingh and a performance by Ashlee Hollerman.
MONDAY, NOV. 20
Transgender Day of Remembrance Luncheon
Join Arianna’s Center for a luncheon from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at United Church of Christ in Fort Lauderdale, where we can learn from one another and remember the lives lost to transphobia.
Transgender Day of Remembrance & Resilience
In its 11th year, the event will be hosted at the Scott Galvin Community Center in Miami from 6 to 9:30 p.m. with trans performers and speakers as well as trans-generated content to honor those lost while celebrating the vibrancy of the community.
Transgender Day of Remembrance
A solemn occasion, come together from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. to remember the trans brothers and sisters whose lives were stolen by violence. The evening, at the Pride Center in Wilton Manors, includes tributes through spoken word, music, performance, and a community meal.
Transgender Day of Remembrance: Heartfelt Connections
Prevention 305 has gathered area organizations for an evening celebrating love, inclusivity and unity at Green Space Miami. The event from 6 to 10 p.m. will include entertainment, drinks, hors d'oeuvres and raffle prizes.
