Trans Day of Remembrance
- Mike Yeung
- Nov 19, 2024
- 2 min read
With Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR) fast approaching, it’s important to take a moment in our busy lives to remember, memorialize and honor the lives of transgender people who’ve been lost to anti-transgender violence for living authentically and courageously. Started by Gwendolyn Ann Smith in 1999 to commemorate Rita Hester whose life was brutally taken, Gwendolyn emphasized that “it is vitally important that those we lose are remembered, and we continue to fight for justice.” Especially considering the current political landscape, Gwendolyn’s call for justice strongly resonates.
Reminding ourselves that amplifying resistance and unity in the face of adversity can be discouraging especially when considering the ramifications of the recent presidential election and increasing anti-trans legislation (at this moment 664 bills are up for consideration across 43 states). Despite these challenges, I want to emphasize that trans and gender-expansive voices are being heard and represented in important seats of government like with Sarah McBride, the first transgender person elected into the U.S. Congress.
While Boston’s 25th annual TDOR happened this past weekend, there are other vigils available to attend:
I also want to take space to share media created by trans artists whose unapologetic ways of brilliance inspire resistance, raise awareness, foster understanding and above all instill hope in periods of adversity. Watching, listening and reading are tools to feel empowered toward activism.
Sophie’s Grammy-nominated album is pivotal in the pop, electronic and house space. Released to universal acclaim, Sophie’s album guides and challenges listeners sonically and lyrically to understand her journey towards gender liberation.
Disclosing experiences of bullying, harassment and shame, Laverne discusses her experiences of coming out as trans and becoming a prominent figure in the trans movement. When you have a moment, it’s worth the 15-minute read.
All within a chaotic 24 hours, Mutt follows Feña to navigate and confront conversations with his ex-boyfriend, father and sister before he transitioned. Take a look at the trailer and see if it’s interesting!
This month Looking Glass Counseling is proud to support NAICOB. NAICOB is The North American Indian Center of Boston providing a wide range of cultural, social, educational and professional services to Native peoples in the Commonwealth. As the oldest urban Indian center in Massachusetts, NAICOB's mission is to empower the Native American community with the goal of improving the quality of life of Indigenous peoples.
Mike Yeung is in his final year of pursuing a masters degree in clinical mental health counseling at William James College. Passionate about providing meaningful and compassionate care, Michael’s studies coupled with attentive supervision have emphasized the importance of the working therapeutic alliance and collaborating with clients along their therapeutic journeys.
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