Trans Day of Remembrance

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

November 20 is the annual Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR), a day dedicated to transgender, transsexual, and two-spirit individuals who have been killed or have been victims of violent attacks based on anti-transgender hatred or prejudice.

As you may know, transition is process in which a gender-diverse individual changes their body and appearance (including hormone replacement therapy, sex reassignment surgery, and/or esthetic treatments) to harmonize with the gender/sex they feel themselves to be. But, regrettably, these individuals are being targeted.

Over the past decade, more than one trans-identified person per month has been attacked or killed. Additionally, a recent Ontario study of trans health showed that rates of suicide and attempted suicide are significantly higher in the trans-population, especially trans-youth. This is due to the social shame and isolation felt by those who express their gender in a “different” way.

Bill C-279 aims to provide protection for these individuals by proposing to recognize gender identity and gender expression as groups under Canada’s Criminal Code hate crimes section and provide trans individuals protection under the Canadian Human Rights Act. The Bill has passed second reading and it was referred to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights. But Conservative MPs are hindering progress, obscuring the bill’s intent with fear mongering and blatant lies.

We can put an end to this by supporting gender diversity and expression. Write your MP to speak out against discrimination and violence targeted at the trans community and voice your support for Bill C-279. You can also participate in one of the TDOR events held across the Prairie Region.

• Calgary, Alberta
  Sunday, November 18, 2012, 2:00 p.m. (Doors open at 1:30 p.m.)
  The Old Y Centre for Community Organizations, 223 12 Ave. SW

• Edmonton, Alberta
  Saturday, November 17, 2012, 2:00 p.m.
  Mcdougal United Church, 10086-101 St.
  Contact: tdoredmonton@gmail.com

• Winnipeg, Manitoba
  Tuesday, November 20, 2012, 
6:00 – 7:00 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
  Circle of Life Thunderbird House, 715 Main St
  Light snacks, warm refreshments, gender-neutral washrooms, and ASL 
interpretation will be provided. 
This free, all ages, event will be located in an accessible, drug and 
alcohol free venue. Contact: info@rainbowresourcecentre.org
 or visit the Facebook event page.

• Regina, Saskatchewan
  Sunday, November 18, 2012, 1:30 - 5:30 p.m. (Vigil at 4:30 p.m.)
  St. James United Church, 4506 Sherwood Dr.
  Event will open with a reflective space with time for gathering
as community, followed by a video presentation of Trained in the Ways
 of Men, with discussion being facilitated by a panel of guest speakers.

In Solidarity,

Marianne Hladun
Regional Executive Vice-President
Public Service Alliance of Canada, Prairies