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20 November is known worldwide as the International Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR) for Victims of Transphobic Violence. It commemorates trans, non-binary and gender-nonconforming people who have lost their lives or continue to be at risk due to hatred, exclusion or violence. The day highlights what remains invisible in the everyday lives of many affected people: that transphobic violence is a real and global threat.
This day was established in 1999 after trans activist Gwendolyn Ann Smith wanted to commemorate the murder of Rita Hester. What began as a local initiative has developed into an international day of remembrance, which is now observed in numerous cities with vigils, art events, readings, community meetings and political statements.
Why this Transgender Day of Remembrance is more relevant today than ever
Trans, non-binary and gender-nonconforming people experience structural discrimination, stigmatisation in everyday life and restricted rights in many parts of the world. In some countries, it is almost impossible to live a self-determined life. But even in Europe, discrimination, barriers in the healthcare system, hate speech on the internet and assaults are still widespread.
The day of remembrance for victims of transphobic violence therefore serves not only as a memorial, but also as a call to action. It shows how urgently needed safe spaces, reliable support structures and respectful social interaction are.
Transphobic violence takes many forms
Violence against trans people is not exclusively physical. It manifests itself on various levels – individually, socially and institutionally. These include:
- Verbal violence & insults
- Hate speech and digital attacks
- Bullying at school, in training or at work
- Discrimination in medical or administrative processes
- Lack of recognition of gender identity
- Legal hurdles with documents and applications
- Exclusion in family, partnership or social environment
All these forms can have psychological, social and physical consequences. Many of those affected report stress, insecurity, lack of participation or fear of living openly with their own identity.
How this day makes solidarity visible
On 20 November, squares in many places fill with candles, lists of names and voices that remember, warn and strengthen. People come together, regardless of their identity, to send a message: for dignity, visibility and the protection of all people whose gender identity lies outside binary expectations.
At the same time, the day is an opportunity for the media, institutions and communities to reflect on their own perspectives. It motivates people to acquire knowledge, communicate sensitively and design spaces that are safe for everyone.
How everyone can help
It doesn’t always take big actions to make a statement. The memorial day invites us to be allies – beyond 20 November.
- Education & reflection: Know and respect the language, history and realities of trans people’s lives.
- Active listening: Perceive experiences without devaluing or relativising them.
- Promote safe spaces: Support associations, counselling centres or groups.
- Report hate speech: Use online platforms and legal reporting channels.
- Political engagement: Advocate for laws that protect self-determination and physical autonomy.
- Act inclusively: Respect pronouns, avoid discriminatory language and enable safer spaces.
What can you do to contribute to the Transgender Day of Remembrance?
You don’t have to be part of the community to take a stand against transphobic violence. Even small actions can have an impact:
1. Inform and speak sensitively
The right language creates respect: respect pronouns, avoid deadnaming, use self-designations. Well-informed people can break down prejudices and positively influence their environment.
2. Attend events
Many cities organise vigils or readings on 20 November. Attending shows solidarity – and supports local initiatives.
3. Support trans organisations
Donations, volunteering and sharing important information on social media help associations, advice centres and support services that do valuable work every day.
4. Live allyship in everyday life
Solidarity means standing up against discriminatory statements or actions – among friends, at work, at school or online.
A day of remembrance – and a mission for the future
The day of remembrance for victims of transphobic violence reminds us how precious every life is. It shows that social progress is possible, but that there is still much work to be done. Every person – regardless of identity or background – can contribute to ensuring that trans, non-binary and gender-non-conforming people can live safely, self-determinedly and with dignity.
This day is a moment to pause, but also an impetus to take action. Because true safety and equality can only be achieved when respect, recognition and protection are visible not only on a day of remembrance – but every day.
Hope, remembrance and the future
The Memorial Day for Victims of Transphobic Violence is a moment to pause and reflect. It is a day on which we remind ourselves that every trans* person deserves a full, dignified and protected life. At the same time, it is a day of commitment: to legal equality, unhindered medical care, safe spaces and a society that not only accepts diversity, but values it.
By commemorating 20 November, we are also calling for change. We are showing that the names of the victims will not be forgotten – and that the future must be safer, freer and more just for trans people.d reinforcing the urgent need for societal change. By remembering the victims, we commit to working toward a world where trans people can live openly, safely, and with dignity.