Transgender Day of Remembrance – 20 November

The Commission marks this year’s Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR) with the release of its poster Trans people are born free and equal in dignity and rights. The poster celebrates the diversity of trans people while reinforcing the message trans people have the same rights as everyone else. 

TDoR is a global event working as a reminder of those killed because of their gender identity. It was initiated after the violent death of transgender African American woman Rita Hester in 1998. The day raises awareness of discrimination and the threat of violence persistently faced by the trans community. It is also a time for trans communities to gather together and think of positive initiatives for the future.

Illustrated by Sam Orchard, a young trans man currently completing his Masters in creative writing at AUT, the poster features a group of figures in front of a cityscape of words describing trans people. Sam says of the concept “Just as we don’t all look the same nor do we use the same words to describe ourselves.”  He enjoyed working with the Commission to design the poster.

The Commission’s poster celebrates trans people with its simple message, trans people have the right to be treated with respect and dignity. It is suitable for a varied audience in a wide range of settings and organisations. Download the poster or email Ata at ataraitiw@hrc.co.nz to order copies.

A vigil at Auckland’s St Matthew in the City will be held at 7.00pm on 29 November to observe the occasion. In Christchurch, the recently reopened Te Whare Puakitanga/Transition House welcomes everyone to a community meeting from 7-9pm on 29 November.

The Commission has produced a set of fact sheets to support trans communities and schools supporting trans students.

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