Every year on November 20, the world marks Trans Day of Remembrance to honour trans people who have lost their lives to anti-trans violence.

Around the world, trans people are targeted for violence simply because of who they are. According to the Trans Murder Monitoring annual research report, 350 trans and gender-diverse people were reported murdered between 1 October 2023 and 30 September 2024. In the United States, at least 27 trans and gender-diverse people have been murdered so far in 2024, the majority of whom are racialized.  

Violence against trans people is not limited to individual acts of hate. It includes denying trans folks’ identities, denying them access to gender-affirming health care, and denying the rights and existence of trans youth. All of these things lead to higher levels of violence and of suicide for trans people. The recent election in the US will make things worse for trans people. It has been no secret that Donald Trump and the Republican party want to further limit the human rights of trans people, and this has ripples that affect Canada and other countries.

Violence and hateful rhetoric increasing in Canada

In Canada, 59% of transgender and gender-diverse people experience violent victimization compared to 37% of cisgender people. Hate crimes against 2SLGBTQIA+ people are rising, and the problem is getting worse. Violent rhetoric against the trans community has increased, and Canada’s intelligence agency (CSIS) is warning that this could “inspire and encourage” further violence against the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

This rhetoric comes from politicians, including Pierre Poilievre and several provincial premiers, who are pushing forward anti-trans laws that send the message that trans people are not worthy of equal treatment and spreading harmful myths and stereotypes about trans people.

All of this rising anti-trans sentiment is putting more trans lives at risk. When trans people are demonized and false ideas are spread, this increases the likelihood of violence. We have seen this in other communities, with violence against people based on their religious beliefs or ethnicity. We must work together to stop this hate and violence.

CEIU stands against all forms of hate, discrimination, and violence against trans people. On November 20, let’s remember those who have died and fight for those who are simply trying to live their lives in peace.

What you can do

1. Remember: Take some time to remember and mourn those who have died at the hands of anti-trans violence. Attend a memorial in your community or read about the lives of the people who have died.
   
   
2. Learn: The best way to conquer dangerous misinformation and stereotypes is to learn the facts. Here are some resources to learn more about trans people and how to be an ally:
   
   
   • Building Trans-inclusive Workplaces
     
     
3. Talk about it: When you hear someone saying something hateful, speak out. Talk to coworkers, friends, and family about the facts and dispel myths. Encourage others to learn.
   
   
4. Advocate: get involved! Contact community organizations to see what you can do for the trans community. Contact elected officials like Members of Parliament and express your support for trans-inclusive policies!
   
   
5. Create safe spaces: at work, school, or in any social setting strive to create environments where trans people feel respected and safe. This can be as little as using inclusive language to challenging mis- and dis-information.
   
   

If you are in crisis and need help, call or text 988 or visit this list of resources.