Today, November 20, 2020 is International Trans Day of Remembrance. On this day communities across the world hold vigil and commemorate trans and non-binary individuals who have died because of transphobia and anti-trans violence. In 1998 a Black trans woman, Rita Hester was murdered, just two days before her 35th birthday. Ever since, November 20th has been a day to pay respect and remember transgender and gender-diverse victims of anti-trans violence.
Did you know that the easy act of using someone’s correct pronoun and name is suicide prevention? Read that again. Using someone’s correct pronoun, and name, has such a strong positive effect on their mental health, that research shows that it might deter them from dying by suicide. Learn people’s pronouns, offer your pronouns and ask for theirs.
A simple, my name is X, and my pronouns are she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs, ze/zer/zers, will suffice.
Today is also a day to celebrate trans existence! Read a book, watch a movie, tell your trans and non-binary friends that you love them and that you will help stop the violence.
To the trans community, we see you, we love you, we support you. <3
In Solidarity,
Polly Leonard, MSW, RSW
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Officer
Acadia University
@acadiauniversityequity
#TDOR #TRANSVISIBILITY #STOPTHEVIOLENCE #PROTECTTRANSKIDS
Resources:
Polly Leonard - Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer
Polly Leonard, MSW RSW (she/her/hers)
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer
Bancroft House, Room 103
Acadia University
Wolfville, NS, B4P 2R6