Central Alberta groups mark Transgender Day of Remembrance

A number of Central Alberta groups celebrated Transgender Day of Remembrance this week.

November 20 is Transgender Day of Remembrance, honoring transgender, Two-Spirit, non-binary and gender non-conforming people whose lives have been cut short by acts of violence against transgender people.

“Today we celebrate Transgender Day of Remembrance, a time to reflect on the lives lost to violence and discrimination against transgender people,” the Central Alberta Pride Society said on its Facebook page.

“Let us show solidarity, lift up the voices of the transgender community and commit to creating a safer and more inclusive world for everyone. Your support matters – let’s work towards a future where everyone can live wholeheartedly and without fear.”

The Red Deer Queer Community Association (RDQCA) posted a video on its YouTube page to mark the day. The association also noted that a memorial service was held on the evening of Wednesday, November 20.

The Lacombe Pride Society called Transgender Day of Remembrance an emotionally difficult day for many.

“We have lost so many people from our community to hateful violence, all because someone chose to live as themselves, openly and freely,” the society said on Facebook.

“It’s normal to feel anger, fear and sadness. These people were our family, we may not have known them all, but we loved them because they fearlessly celebrated who they were and the world couldn’t accept it. Today we mourn the loss of their light, but we keep their flame alive as we continue to move forward, fighting for their hopes and dreams, and the hopes and dreams of our children.

“Mourn today, but tomorrow we will rise and fight for our voices, where we will fight for our loved ones, for the future generation and for love. Because we know that when we are together, we fight love, hate. will never win.”

The Ponoka Pride Society posted on Instagram: “Today we remember victims of transphobic hate, listen to trans people and amplify their voices. We unite to fight transphobia around the world. Our voices are needed now more than ever. We at Ponoka Pride proudly support our transgender brothers and sisters and strive to create a safe space where all people can exist as who they are.”

For more information about Transgender Day of Remembrance, visit the City of Red Deer website.