November 20th is Transgender Day of Remembrance

Nov 20, 2024

CMHA Brant Haldimand Norfolk honours Transgender Day of Remembrance 

At CMHA Brant Haldimand Norfolk, we recognize that the violence faced by 2 Spirit, trans, and non-binary individuals is not a thing of the past—it is an urgent and ongoing crisis. On Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), we mourn those whose lives were lost to anti-trans violence while acknowledging the persistent systemic barriers and discrimination these communities endure today. 

The Reality of Anti-Trans Violence 

The statistics are staggering. According to the 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan Survey, 39% of 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians have experienced violence due to discrimination in the past five years. Alarmingly, this includes: 

• 63% of Two-Spirit individuals and 54% of trans women reporting experiences of physical and sexual violence. 

• 67% of trans women and 55% of trans men considering personal safety risks when deciding how to present in public. 

• 91% of victims do not report incidents to the police due to mistrust and fear of inaction. 

In Ontario, 40% of 2SLGBTQI+ individuals report experiencing violence or discrimination related to their identities. 

Mental Health Impacts 

Two-spirit, trans, and gender-diverse individuals face higher rates of mental health challenges, with 30% reporting fair or poor mental health, compared to fewer than 10% of non-2SLGBTQI+ individuals. Unfortunately, only 17% of 2SLGBTQI+ Ontarians have access to specialized mental health services. 

Barriers like discrimination in healthcare settings, a lack of culturally safe and affirming spaces, and social stigma exacerbate these challenges. For example, 21% of trans individuals in Ontario avoid emergency care during crises due to fear of mistreatment. 

A Community of Resilience 

Despite these barriers, the 2 Spirit, trans, and non-binary communities continue to demonstrate resilience, advocacy, and strength. TDOR is not only a day of mourning but also a call to action for allies to stand in solidarity and push for systemic change. 

How You Can Support 

1. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the unique challenges faced by gender-diverse individuals and share this knowledge. 

2. Advocate for Inclusive Policies: Push for affirming and culturally safe mental health services. 

3. Amplify Voices: Support organizations and initiatives led by 2SLGBTQI+ communities. 

Resources for Support 

• LGBT Youthline: Peer-led support for 2SLGBTQI+ youth across Ontario. 

• The Trevor Project: Crisis support for 2SLGBTQI+ youth. 

• Rainbow Health Ontario: Training and resources for affirming healthcare. 

• Trans Wellness Ontario: Mental wellness support for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. 

Terminology Matters 

Using affirming names and pronouns is a simple but powerful way to show respect and support. It’s about acknowledging identity and challenging harmful norms. 

Honouring Lives, Building Futures 

This TDOR, let’s commit to creating a safer, more inclusive world for 2 Spirit, trans, and gender-diverse individuals. Together, we can confront transphobia, amplify marginalized voices, and ensure everyone can live free from fear and violence.