Message Ahead of International Transgender Day of Remembrance – November 20, 2022
Each year on November 20, International Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is recognized around the world in memory of Two Spirit, transgender, non-binary, and gender diverse people whose lives were lost to violent and hate-filled acts of transphobia.
This Sunday, and every day, Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) is proud to stand in solidarity with Two Spirit, transgender, non-binary, and gender diverse students, families, staff members, and community members. We reflect on this commitment as we join international communities in commemorating TDOR by raising the Transgender Flag at the Education Centre.
TDOR signals the end of Transgender Awareness Week, which began on November 13. The week was an opportunity to highlight and celebrate Two Spirit, transgender, non-binary, and gender diverse individuals and communities while raising authentic voices and sharing lived experiences by advocating for inclusion and visibility in our schools.
Transgender Awareness Week is only one opportunity to recognize and acknowledge the contributions of Two Spirit, transgender, non-binary, and gender diverse individuals from our local communities, in Canada, and throughout the world. Students need to see and hear themselves within the curriculum, their classes, and in their communities throughout the entire year. By creating safer and more inclusive spaces all year long, all students can strengthen their sense of belonging and overall well-being.
At the end of the week, TDOR is a day to mourn or stand vigil for Two Spirit, transgender, non-binary and gender diverse community members who have died as a result of transphobic violence. The tragic events surrounding the deaths of transgender people often go unreported or remain unsolved cases that no one is investigating. TDOR also serves as an opportunity to remind the world that transgender people and voices will not be silenced. Transphobia and cissexism are the forms of hatred and intolerance that must be challenged before the violence ends.
Gender identity and expression are important to well-being and are often factors in targeted harassment and discrimination in schools and communities. We can all foster student and staff well-being – and the positive outcomes this brings – by confronting all forms of transphobic hatred and violence.
On Sunday, November 20, International Transgender Day of Remembrance, let us reflect on what needs to be done and make a commitment to take action against the transphobic hatred and violence that Two Spirit, transgender, non-binary, and gender diverse students, families, staff, and community members still face.
Thank you for helping us to make all HWDSB schools and working environments safer and more inclusive places for everyone.
Sincerely,
Paul Denomme
Superintendent, Student Achievement, Equity and Student Engagement
Resources:
CCGSD – Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR)
glaad – Trans Day of Remembrance – Nov 20
GSA Network – Transgender Day of Remembrance
Supports for Transgender, Non-Binary, and Gender Diverse students:
Lesbian Gay Bi Trans Youth Line – confidential, non-judgmental, and informed peer support. 1 (800) 268-9688 / Text: 647-694-4275
Speqtrum Hamilton – offers peer supports and community building for Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ youth. Confidential Email: [email protected]
Hamilton Trans Health Coalition – is a non-profit coalition of health care providers, advocates, and community members working to increase the capacity of health systems in Hamilton, Ontario to meet the needs of trans, gender-diverse, and non-binary people.
Trans Lifeline’s Hotline – a peer support phone service run by transgender people for transgender and questioning peers. 1-877-330-6366
Transcend Youth Group: A social and support group for transgender, non-binary, gender non-conforming and gender-questioning children and youth from HWDSB schools. Please Contact: [email protected] for more information.
Transcend Parent Group: A social and support group for parents/guardians/caregivers of transgender, nonbinary, gender non-conforming and gender questioning children and youth from HWDSB schools. Please Contact: [email protected] for more information
Updated on Friday, November 18, 2022.