Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) began in 1999, founded by trans advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith as a vigil to honour the memory of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed in 1998.

What started as a single vigil to mourn those lost to anti-trans violence has grown into a global tradition of remembrance, reflection, and community solidarity.

Observed each year on November 20, TDOR honours the memory of transgender and gender-diverse people whose lives have been taken by anti-trans violence. As this date approaches, we invite our community to come together to reflect, mourn, and recommit ourselves to building safer and more affirming spaces for all.

TDOR is not only a day of mourning — it is also a time to recognize resilience, brilliance, and joy. It is a day to celebrate the courage and advocacy of trans leaders who continue to pave the way toward liberation and visibility.

In Remembrance

As we gather in community, we also take time to honour and name those whose lives were lost this year to anti-trans violence.

We invite you to spend a moment reading and reflecting on their names, shared through the Trans Lives Matter TDOR 2025 memorial list:
Remembering Our Dead

Each name represents a life that mattered — a person who deserved safety, dignity, and love.

May their memories strengthen our commitment to creating a world where all trans lives can thrive.

Get Involved

Join us this November 20 to honour this day and take part in the following events:

Community Resources