Transgender Day of Remembrance
Honoring Lives Lost: Transgender Day of Remembrance
Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), observed annually on November 20, honors the memory of transgender people murdered in acts of anti-transgender violence. It is a day for reflection and remembrance, and a call to protect transgender people from violence and work toward safety and equality.
A Brief History
According to GLAAD, the observance grew out of a 1998 vigil commemorating Rita Hester, a visible member of Boston’s transgender community who was murdered that year. Activist Gwendolyn Ann Smith organized the vigil and launched the Transgender Day of Remembrance website to remember Rita and others lost to anti-transgender violence. The observance is now recognized around the world.
Why TDOR Matters
Transgender Day of Remembrance provides an opportunity to:
- Remember Lives Lost: Honor those who have been murdered in acts of anti-transgender violence and keep their memories alive.
- Raise Awareness: Draw attention to violence, harassment, and discrimination faced by transgender people.
- Call for Change: Encourage efforts to protect transgender people and promote safety and equality.
Fun Facts About TDOR
- The observance began with a vigil for Rita Hester, who was murdered in 1998.
- Organizations around the world now recognize the day, and local observances may vary.
- Vigils and other events may honor those lost to anti-transgender violence.
Ways to Celebrate and Honor
Taking part in Transgender Day of Remembrance can be a meaningful way to show support for the transgender community. Here are some ways to honor the occasion:
- Attend a Vigil: Check with local transgender organizations, LGBTQ centers, or support groups to learn about remembrance events in your area.
- Host an Educational Discussion: Organize or attend a discussion about the experiences of transgender people and the importance of respect and acceptance.
- Share Stories: Use your platform to honor those lost to violence and highlight the diversity and resilience of transgender people.
- Support LGBTQ+ Organizations: Consider supporting organizations that work with and advocate for transgender communities.
- Listen and Learn: Seek out transgender voices and community resources to better understand the issues people face.
Remembering and Taking Action
Transgender Day of Remembrance is a time to mourn those lost to violence and to reflect on how communities can support transgender people. By taking part in remembrance events, learning from transgender voices, and supporting efforts for safety and equality, we can help build a world where transgender people are respected and protected.
When is Transgender Day of Remembrance?
Transgender Day of Remembrance: Every year on November 20.
| Year | Date | Day of the week |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | November 20 | Friday |
| 2027 | November 20 | Saturday |
| 2028 | November 20 | Monday |
| 2029 | November 20 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | November 20 | Wednesday |
Reviewed by the Holiday List editorial team on October 22, 2026 · Last updated October 22, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
When is Transgender Day of Remembrance in 2026?
Transgender Day of Remembrance is on Friday, November 20, 2026. After that, it falls on Saturday, November 20, 2027. Every year on November 20.
Is Transgender Day of Remembrance a public holiday?
No. Transgender Day of Remembrance is an observance, not an official public holiday, so schools and businesses stay open as usual.
How did Transgender Day of Remembrance begin?
It grew out of a 1998 vigil for Rita Hester, a transgender community member murdered that year. Activist Gwendolyn Ann Smith organized the vigil to remember Hester and others lost to anti-transgender violence.
What does Transgender Day of Remembrance honor?
It honors transgender people murdered in acts of anti-transgender violence. The observance also raises awareness and calls for safety and equality.
How can people observe Transgender Day of Remembrance?
People can attend a vigil, join an educational discussion, share stories, listen to transgender voices, or support organizations advocating for transgender communities.
Sources
- Governor of California: Governor Newsom proclaims Transgender Day of Remembrance
- GLAAD: Transgender Day of Remembrance Resource Kit for Journalists
✓ Date matches Governor of California: Governor Newsom proclaims Transgender Day of Remembrance (checked automatically on October 21, 2026).
