Trans awareness week 2024

CW: Discussion of transphobia, hate crime, and sexual violence.

Trans Awareness Week, held from November 13th to 19th, 2024, is a crucial moment to honour the trans community's contributions, resilience, and the challenges they face.

It is more than a time of remembrance; it serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the hardships transgender individuals endure globally and address the widespread discrimination, harassment, and violence they encounter.

Understanding Transphobic and Sexual-Related Violence

The trans community faces disproportionately high rates of violence compared to other groups, particularly in the realm of sexual violence.

According to the 2022 U.S. Transgender Survey, nearly half of transgender people reported being sexually assaulted in their lifetimes. This is even more severe for trans people of colour, who face intersecting discrimination based on race, gender identity, and sexual orientation.

In the UK, a study by Galop found that 81% of transgender people have experienced a form of hate crime or incident, while 32% of transgender people have been sexually assaulted.

A Harvard study in 2019 found that for students not allowed to access bathrooms/locker rooms that align with their identity, the risk of sexual assault or violence is significantly greater, with 36% (1404) students reporting an attack in the last 12 months.

Transgender Europe and Central Asia (TGEU) reported 350 trans or gender-diverse murders since 2023, marking one of the highest death tolls documented. Many of these victims are trans women, sex workers, and people of colour. These numbers are likely underreported, as many cases go unnoticed or misreported.

Transphobic violence is rooted in rigid societal norms that stigmatise those who do not conform to traditional gender roles. Perpetrators often target trans people for their perceived "difference," using sexual violence as a tool to assert dominance or "punish" nonconformity. The Human Rights Campaign highlights how stigma, discriminatory policies, and lack of legal protections leave trans individuals vulnerable and unsafe.

The role of education and allyship

Education is essential in breaking down prejudice and fostering a culture of inclusion. Trans Awareness Week offers a chance to engage in educational events, workshops, and discussions that deepen understanding of trans issues and promote compassion. Tackling transphobia requires addressing societal structures that exclude and harm trans people.

Being an ally involves more than rejecting anti-trans rhetoric—it means actively supporting transgender individuals by advocating for inclusive policies, raising awareness about the violence they face, and participating in initiatives like Trans Day of Remembrance. Allies can amplify trans voices, educate others, and stand up against transphobia in all its forms.

What can we do?

• Educate yourself on trans issues, including sexual and gender-based violence. Websites like the Transgender Equality offer great resources to deepen understanding.
• Support trans-inclusive policies in your community, workplace, or school. Advocate for better training for law enforcement and others who may encounter trans people.
• Engage in Trans Awareness Week by attending events, vigils, or discussions that focus on trans issues and violence prevention.
• Support organisations like Transgender Europe (TGEU) and the Human Rights Campaign by donating or volunteering.
• Amplify trans voices. Give space for trans individuals to tell their stories, on social media or in personal conversations.

Honouring trans lives and legacies

Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), observed on November 20th, honours those lost to transphobic violence. Founded by Gwendolyn Ann Smith in 1999, TDOR serves as a reminder of the systemic issues harming the trans community and the need for continued advocacy, justice, and solidarity.

Books to read

1. Redefining Realness by Janet Mock
   Janet Mock's memoir chronicles her journey as a trans woman of colour, breaking stereotypes and fighting for greater trans representation in media.
2. Sister Outsider by Audre Lorde
   This collection of essays by Audre Lorde addresses themes of intersectionality and oppression, resonating with many in the trans community.
3. Stone Butch Blues by Leslie Feinberg
   A semi-autobiographical novel about identity and survival, Stone Butch Blues remains a crucial text for understanding gender nonconformity.
4. Before We Were Trans by Kit Heyam
   Heyam’s book delves into the history of gender diversity, challenging colonial and modern gender norms that shape restrictive views on gender today.

Documentaries and films to watch

1. Disclosure (2020)
   Available on Netflix, this documentary examines the impact of trans representation in media and its connection to societal violence.
2. Paris is Burning (1990)
   A ground-breaking film showcasing the resilience of Black and Latinx drag queens and trans women in New York City’s 1980s ballroom scene.
3. Born to Be (2020)
   Following Dr. Jess Ting at the Centre for Transgender Medicine, this film explores the personal and medical journeys of trans patients seeking gender-affirming care.

SASHA’s Commitment

At SASHA, we stand with the trans community, raising awareness about the violence and discrimination they face. We encourage everyone to participate in efforts that advocate for a world free of violence, prejudice, and discrimination for all. Trans Awareness Week reminds us of the critical role allyship, education, and advocacy play in creating a safer, more inclusive future for all.

Written by Sebastian Glasper
Published Nov 14, 2024

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