Not A Phase prepares for a nationwide vigil on 20 November, coinciding with the Trans Day of Remembrance, to honour the lives of transgender individuals lost to violence and discrimination.
Not A Phase, a prominent trans charity, is gearing up for its most significant event yet—a nationwide vigil to commemorate the lives of trans individuals lost in the past year due to violence or discrimination. The event is scheduled for 20 November, coinciding with the Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR), and will take place simultaneously across several UK locations, including London, Manchester, Wales, and Margate.
This multi-location event serves as a gathering for trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals, along with their supporters, to honour and remember those whose lives have been cut short as a consequence of their gender identity. TDOR has its roots 25 years ago, initiated as a vigil in honour of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was tragically killed in a transphobic attack in 1998. Since then, it has grown into an international day of remembrance for trans individuals worldwide.
Danielle St James, Chief Executive of Not A Phase, highlighted the significance of such events amidst the ongoing challenges faced by the trans community globally. “Over the past 12 months, we have once again tragically lost people globally to anti-trans+ violence. Our vigils to mark TDOR provide a moment to come together, to light candles and take time to honour these lives. Even with the sombre tone of this event, we are so grateful to be able to cultivate a comforting and united space to be together each year,” she remarked.
At the vigils, attendees can expect performances from the Pink Singers, noted as Europe’s longest-running LGBTQIA choir. Community leaders will also participate, and a limited number of attendees will be offered the chance to share their personal stories and experiences. For those wishing to partake in this aspect, Not A Phase can be contacted through Instagram.
The vigils are slated to commence at 6:30 pm in designated locations: Soho Square in London, Bute Park in Cardiff, Sackville Gardens in Manchester, and Duke Street in Margate. Participants will have access to candles for paying their respects, contributing to a powerful visual tribute to those lost.
This event underscores the broader movement to commemorate those affected by violence against the transgender community and continues to build solidarity and support networks within the LGBTQIA community in the UK.
Source: Noah Wire Services