Holding my trans loved ones close to my heart today ❤️
#TDOR is a solemn occasion that asks us, to paraphrase Mother Jones, to mourn the dead and fight like hell for the living. A day that asks us to remember the names, faces, memories, demands, and dreams of our trans siblings who have been taken from us by physical violence, state violence, and hopelessness.
Two simple places to start for cis allies on this #TDOR:
1. Give trans folks material, financial support! If you aren't connected to a mutual aid network in your community, consider donating to OUR SPOT KC, WiNc (westindconnection.com), transanta.com, blackandpink.org/donate, your local LGBTQIA+ inclusion network, or search #TransCrowdfund on your social media platform of choice and give money directly to folks who need it.
2. Most of us have been socialized and marinated in heteronormativity and cisnormativity, so it is our responsibility to start creating new neural pathways. Get used to sharing your pronouns. Read books by trans and genderqueer authors. Follow trans creators on social media. Watch shows and movies with trans and genderqueer actors. Read reporting from trans journalists - you can start with this beautiful essay from Erin Reed and Zooey Zephyr: https://lnkd.in/ggbNyeDg
"There are no golden magic words to convince someone struggling to survive in an ever-darkening world to stay with us. That's not what we're offering. What we're offering is our unwavering commitment to fight like fell for you and the people you love. If hope for a brighter future isn't enough to keep you going, then stay because there are people fighting back -- people who refuse to let go. While we can't stop the ocean from flooding in, we can stand, arms outstretched, catching everyone it tries to sweep away. And when the tides change, as they always do, they'll see us still standing, as we always have been -- arm in arm, just like those who came before us."
Today, we honor the lives of transgender individuals lost to violence and discrimination. This solemn day reminds us of the resilience and strength within the trans community while underscoring the urgent need to combat hate and injustice.
As we reflect, let’s also amplify trans voices, advocate for trans rights, and celebrate their invaluable contributions to our communities. 🕯️🏳️⚧️
#TDOR2024 #TransDayOfRemembrance #TransRightsAreHumanRights #OurSpotKC