TDOR: Transgender Day of Remembrance

Transgender Day of Remembrance, also known as TDOR, is an annual observance that honors the memory of transgender individuals who have been killed as a result of transphobia and discrimination. TDOR was first observed in 1999, and it is typically held on November 20th.

The origins of TDOR can be traced back to the murder of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed in 1998. Hester’s murder, like many other homicides of transgender individuals, was never solved. In response to her murder and the lack of justice, a group of transgender activists organized the first TDOR event in 1999.

TDOR events often include a reading of the names of transgender individuals who have been killed in the past year, as well as speeches and performances by transgender activists and allies. These events provide a space for transgender individuals and their loved ones to grieve and remember those who have been lost.

TDOR is an important reminder of the violence and discrimination that transgender individuals face on a daily basis. Transgender individuals are disproportionately affected by violence, and they are often the targets of hate crimes. TDOR is an opportunity to raise awareness of this violence and to call for greater acceptance and understanding of transgender individuals.

In conclusion, Transgender Day of Remembrance is an annual observance that honors the memory of transgender individuals who have been killed as a result of transphobia and discrimination. TDOR events provide a space for transgender individuals and their loved ones to grieve and remember those who have been lost, and they serve as an important reminder of the violence and discrimination that transgender individuals face.