2022 Transgender Day of Remembrance

Transgender Day of Remembrance started as a vigil in 1999 to commemorate the death of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed in 1998. Rita Hester was a highly vocal and visible member of the Trans community in Boston Massachusetts.


Violence against Transgender and gender non-conforming people, particularly Black, Brown Latino transgender women, remains at an all-time epidemic proportion. With 375 reported murders worldwide in 2021 it was the deadliest year for Trans and gender diverse people. So far in the United States at least the numbers are toppling over 57 deaths in this epidemic. Members of this population die violently the most that we have seen since statistics were kept. We say “at least” because there are likely many other such deaths, with victims dead-named or misgendered, or their deaths not reported at all.
While this day is a day of mourning and remembrance, it is also a day to reflect on contributions to the Transgender Community and the power of survival.


Candlelight vigils are the most common ways to honour and to recognize Transgender Day of Remembrance. This year we can finally get together and show strength in numbers by attending events staged throughout our local areas and throughout the nation.


As your PSAC Atlantic Director for 2SLGBTQIA+ members, I ask that you check availabilities of Transgender Day of Remembrance vigils and events in your area, stay safe, stay strong and stay proud.

With Pride and Solidarity,

Wayne Kelley
Director for 2SLGBTQIA+ membersPSAC Atlantic