August 8, 2026
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.
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. TDOR was founded in 1999 by advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith to honor Rita Hester, whose 1998 death spurred the observance.
The observances are open to everyone — transgender people, allies, schools, workplaces, and faith and community groups. Many local LGBTQ+ centers host public events.
TDOR is November 20, 2026, at the end of Transgender Awareness Week (November 13–19).
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.
No. Most vigils and observances are free and open to the public, and GLAAD offers free resources and a virtual ceremony.
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