Transgender Day of Remembrance
Today is the Transgender Day of Remembrance.
No, it’s not a holiday, so you don’t get time off work. And there are no cool parades or snazzy events to be ‘seen’ at… it’s a little more solemn than that. The Day of Remembrance was started by Gwendolyn Ann Smith to honor the 1998 death of Rita Hester, a transwoman who was murdered for being who she was.
“The Transgender Day of Remembrance seeks to highlight the losses we face due to anti-transgender bigotry and violence. I am no stranger to the need to fight for our rights, and the right to simply exist is first and foremost. With so many seeking to erase transgender people — sometimes in the most brutal ways possible — it is vitally important that those we lose are remembered, and that we continue to fight for justice.”
– Transgender Day of Remembrance founder Gwendolyn Ann Smith
Long time readers here will recall that my mantra is “No Shame”.
I don’t advocate for hiding who you really are out of fear or shame. But I also recognize that sometimes a degree of circumspection is needed, because other people’s reactions can be harmful. I want you all to be able to live your lives with as much freedom and love as possible, and I deeply wish that there wasn’t a need for a Transgender Day of Remembrance.
So remember today our fallen sisters and brothers, the transpeople who have fought for us all.
Because they are the reason Laverne Cox was on the cover of Time, they are the warriors who let us dance on Friday nights at the drag show, and they are behind the rise (thank you, thank you!) of lingerie for men and boys in panties! Remember those who have gone before us, blazed a trail of love and acceptance, and, girls: bend your gender presentation, wear those panties, that bra, with pride!
Have you seen Sons of Anarchy Season 7 Ms. Harper? I ask because there is a transgendered girl named Venus on the show. She is in a relationship with one of the Sons. I absolutely LOVE this show and addicted to it. I love that in this prime time show, a transgendered girl is portrayed and in a relationship and these bad ass guys accept both of them. I wish there was more acceptance in this world.
I haven’t been watching, but based on your description, I think I’m going to have to start!