Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is observed to honor the memory of transgender individuals who have lost their lives to acts of violence and discrimination. It is a day to reflect on the ongoing challenges faced by the transgender community, raise awareness about the violence and prejudice they endure, and reaffirm the commitment to equality, safety, and respect for all people, regardless of their gender identity.
Take a look at several CHANGEMAKERS in the Transgender community who have made significant contributions to advocacy, visibility, and equality. These individuals have not only advanced the rights of transgender people but have also inspired countless others to embrace their identities and push for a more inclusive world:
- Sylvia Rivera (1951-2002): A veteran of the 1969 Stonewall Inn uprising, Sylvia Rivera was a tireless advocate for those silenced and disregarded by larger movements. Throughout her life, she fought against the exclusion of transgender people, especially transgender people of color, from the larger movement for gay rights.
- Laverne Cox: Laverne Cox is a four time Emmy-nominated actress, Emmy winning documentary film producer and a prominent equal rights advocate. Laverne's role of Sophia Burset in the critically acclaimed Netflix original series "Orange is The New Black" brought her to the attention of diverse audiences all over the world. This role led to Laverne becoming the first openly transgender actress to be nominated for a Primetime acting Emmy.
- Cecilia Chung: Cecilia Chung is a groundbreaking advocate for the transgender community and those living with HIV/AIDS. For decades, she has worked on the local, state, and national levels to end the discrimination and violence that her communities face.
- Chris Mosier: A trailblazing transgender athlete, Chris is the first openly transgender man to qualify for a U.S. national team and compete internationally. He is an advocate for inclusion in sports and transgender rights.
