Transgender Day of Remembrance was created in 1999 by Gwendolyn Ann Smith, a transgender woman and activist, to memorialize the murder of Rita Hester in Allston, Massachusetts. What began as a web-based initiative has now grown into an international event observed annually on November 20. International Transgender Day of Remembrance commemorates the trans, two-spirit and non-binary people who have lost their lives to transphobic violence. Because of the way we collect statistics and record crimes, Canada has no real information about the rates of violence faced by trans Canadians. But we do know trans and non-binary people – particularly trans women of colour – are at a higher risk for experiencing violence and/or being killed because of who they are. It is important to remember those who have lost their lives and raise awareness, compassion, and empowerment for the trans community. 

This year, the Honourable Robert Mitchell, Minister of Health and Wellness, will read a statement in, and a Trans flag will be flown at, the PEI Legislature to recognize Transgender Day of Remembrance. UPEI will also fly the Trans flag on November 20.