This week is Transgender Awareness Week, lasting from November 13th through November 19th. This initiative seeks to raise awareness about the unique challenges facing transgender communities while also recognizing the strength and resilience of trans and non-binary individuals. The awareness week also calls attention to the need for advocacy efforts to better support trans and non-binary communities.
GLAAD has some great resources here sharing information on issues affecting the trans communities and ways to be an ally to trans and non-binary individuals. Out and Equal also offers many great educational resources about equality for trans people in the work place and highlights trans and non-binary individuals sharing their stories and experiences.
Elevating trans voices is crucial in advocacy work, especially during Transgender Awareness week! In the theme of elevating trans stories and experiences, you can check out this article which has a list of 15 books written by trans authors. Because awareness weeks surrounding marginalized identities often focus on heavy issues of discrimination and oppression, it is also important to highlight resources that focus on trans joy. This article from NEDA highlights ways for trans people to practice self-care and includes trans specific resources. This coloring book and journal focuses on the trans experience, centering joy and exploration at its heart.
The week culminates with the Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20. This yearly event recognizes and honors those who have been lost to anti-trans violence. The tradition of the Day of Remembrance was founded by transgender advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith to honor Rita Hester who was killed due to anti-trans violence. Check out GLAAD’s resources on how to honor those who have been lost, and how to get involved by attending or hosting a vigil.