November 20th is Transgender Day of Remembrance. This is a day to remember and respect all transgender humans who have been murdered and lost their lives due to transphobia and ignorance.

This day allows us to pay respect to the humans who paved the way and were hurt in the social justice fight for safety, visibility and equality in the world. This day allows us to pay our respects for the humans who stepped forward and shed the fear of being themselves and inspiring the same in others.

This day was founded in 1998 by a transwoman named Gwendolyn Ann Smith. It was to commemorate fellow African American transwoman Rita Hester who was murdered just solely for being herself. This death created a ripple in the world. We hope to carry on the true nature of this day and to pay our respects.

Take part in your LGBT community and read the names of women who have lost their lives. Pay your respects through candlelight vigils, art shows, marches and film screenings. Read books by transwomen and spotlight their achievements in the community and in the world.

Let’s stand together and create a safe and comfortable living space for everyone and for transgender people who deserve life and free expression.

Just recently celebrities have discussed separating the “T” from the LGBT movement just to signify how heavy and important it is to focus on transpeople rights, history, story and movement.  This is also significant because the fight for gay rights is “slowing down” as Alex Newell says but transpeople are still in a bad position with over 20 being murdered just this year.

Take a moment to support a transperson in any way you can. Whether it be in love, monetary donation to surgeries that will make them feel comfortable in their own skin or by taking a moment to pay respect.

With the help of everyone we can spread love throughout the world and make it a safe space. Be the first to step up and stand hand in hand with love.

This goes out to all the transwomen who have been victims of brutal murder.

Check out the International Transgender Day of Remembrance website here.