Each November, the transgender community and its allies mark Transgender Awareness Week, culminating in Transgender Day of Remembrance — a global observance honoring those lost to anti-transgender violence.
- Dates: Transgender Awareness Week runs November 13–19, 2026; Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is November 20, 2026
- Where: Observed worldwide, including local vigils, community events, and online
- Cost: Free; most community vigils and GLAAD’s resources and virtual ceremony are open to the public
- Learn more: glaad.org/transweek and glaad.org/tdor
What to expect
During Awareness Week, transgender people and allies raise visibility through education, storytelling, and advocacy. On November 20, communities hold vigils that typically include reading aloud the names of transgender people killed over the past year. Advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith founded TDOR in 1999 to honor Rita Hester, whose 1998 death spurred the observance.
Who it’s for
The observances are open to everyone — transgender people, allies, schools, workplaces, and faith and community groups. Many local LGBTQ+ centers host public events.
Frequently asked questions
When is Transgender Day of Remembrance 2026?
TDOR is November 20, 2026, at the end of Transgender Awareness Week (November 13–19).
How is it observed?
Through educational events and storytelling during Awareness Week, and candlelight vigils on TDOR that often read aloud the names of those lost to anti-transgender violence.
Does it cost anything to take part?
No. Most vigils and observances are free and open to the public, and GLAAD offers free resources and a virtual ceremony.
Common questions
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
A week each November dedicated to raising the visibility of transgender people and the issues they face, ending with the Transgender Day of Remembrance.
What is the Transgender Day of Remembrance?
An annual day honoring the memory of transgender people lost to anti-transgender violence.