This week can bring up a lot of mixed emotions for our trans communities. While the intention is so spread awareness about both the barriers and successes of trans and gender-diverse folks, it also comes with a sense of hyper-visibility. The pressure on trans people to speak up, be visible and share their experiences this week is profound, and is one that reinforces a narrative of “otherness”.
Awareness is important, that cannot be understated. In a time when ignorance and harm is still occurring — on the streets, in schools, in our medication and judicial systems — education through spreading awareness and knowledge is one of our greatest tools. But that responsibility cannot fall on trans communities. Awareness without action is equally as violent as blatant violence itself. Allyship is a verb, one that requires constant unlearning and decentering of cis-privilege.
Trans Awareness Weeks ends on November 20th, which is formally recognized as Trans Day of Remembrance. It is a time to remember and honour our trans family and elders who have willingly and unwillingly dedicated their time and lives towards trans liberation and justice. We honour the trans communities, especially the communities of colour — Black and Indigenous communities — who are the incredible leaders of this community and the biggest targets for violence.
This week we remind ourselves that trans people have always existed and we recommitment ourselves to focusing on the thriving and abundant futures trans communities, while dedicating ourselves to trans justice in education through action.
Places to learn more:
Trans People of Colour Project (TPOC)
Trans People of Colour: Healing Circle (November 19)
Smudge, Don’t Judge: Assisting Two Spirit/Trans Survivors of Violence
We Move Together: Disability Justice and Trans Liberation
Awareness is important, that cannot be understated. In a time when ignorance and harm is still occurring — on the streets, in schools, in our medication and judicial systems — education through spreading awareness and knowledge is one of our greatest tools. But that responsibility cannot fall on trans communities. Awareness without action is equally as violent as blatant violence itself. Allyship is a verb, one that requires constant unlearning and decentering of cis-privilege.
Trans Awareness Weeks ends on November 20th, which is formally recognized as Trans Day of Remembrance. It is a time to remember and honour our trans family and elders who have willingly and unwillingly dedicated their time and lives towards trans liberation and justice. We honour the trans communities, especially the communities of colour — Black and Indigenous communities — who are the incredible leaders of this community and the biggest targets for violence.
This week we remind ourselves that trans people have always existed and we recommitment ourselves to focusing on the thriving and abundant futures trans communities, while dedicating ourselves to trans justice in education through action.
Places to learn more:
Trans People of Colour Project (TPOC)
Trans People of Colour: Healing Circle (November 19)
Smudge, Don’t Judge: Assisting Two Spirit/Trans Survivors of Violence
We Move Together: Disability Justice and Trans Liberation
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