The Humber Polytechnic community is encouraged to show its support for Humber’s trans community on the Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR) by attending one of a series of ceremonies and events happening throughout the week.

The LGBTQ+ Resource Centre and the Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (EDIB) are marking TDoR, which is observed annually on November 20. It’s a day commemorating the trans, Two-Spirit, non-binary and gender non-conforming people’s lives lost in acts of transphobia and anti-trans violence. It’s also a day to raise awareness about transphobia.

TDoR was started in 1999 by trans advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith to honour and memorialize Rita Hester, a Black trans woman who was killed.  

Humber will recognize TDoR by lowering flags at its campuses to half-staff while the LGBTQ+ Resource Centre hosted information tables to raise awareness of the day at both North and Lakeshore campuses on November 12.

There are also several events happening that members of the Humber community can attend.

The LGBTQ+ Resource Centre will be observing TDoR throughout the week of November 18 to November 22. They will have a presence in Gratitude Hall at North Campus and the Second Floor of the Welcome and Resource Centre at Lakeshore Campus throughout the week and are encouraging the Humber community to visit the booths to learn, reflect and renew their commitments to meaningful change and justice.

On November 18, Transforming Awareness into Action: Bringing Trans Allyship to Life in the Workplace happens from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. The virtual workshop organized by the Office of EDIB and the 519 Team will shine a light on the origins and relevance of TDoR so participants can gain insights into why allyship is so necessary and learn concrete ways they can play a role in making positive change. Those interested in attending are asked to register in advance.

As well, TDoR: Compassion and Self-Love happens on November 18 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the North LGBTQ+ Resource Centre (Room E140) and on November 21 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lakeshore LGBTQ+ Resource Centre (Room WEL211). Hosted by the Spirituality and Wellness Centre and the LGBTQ+ Resource Centre, the event is dedicated to trans, non-binary, Two-Spirit, and gender non-conforming students at Humber and the University of Guelph-Humber. It’s an afternoon of self-care and reflection that will include guided meditation and aromatherapy to create a space for healing, reflection and self-love.

While the events are tailored for Humber’s 2SLGBTQ+ students, aspiring allies, faculty, and staff are welcome to attend. However, everyone is reminded to be respectful of the community spaces and resources, and that this is a time of grieving for the trans, Two-Spirit, non-binary and gender non-conforming communities.

Those with questions or looking for more information can email lgbtq@humber.ca.