Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is observed annually on November 20 and provides the opportunity to reflect on the memory of transgender people around the world who have lost their lives to violence.  Today, glifaa honors those victims and reflects on their lives.  We are committed to promoting the rights of gender and sexual minorities around the world to live without fear of violence.  Transgender members of the foreign affairs family likewise have the right to work and live in an environment free from discrimination and other obstacles.  We are grateful to the Department of State’s Office of Civil Rights and USAID’s Office of Civil Rights and Diversity and Gender & Sexual Minorities (GSM) Employee Resource Group for amplifying this message to the foreign affairs community today through department notices.

This day, glifaa salutes the contributions of transgender colleagues, contacts, friends, and family members.  Please take a moment to consider what you can do today to help foster an inclusive and positive environment, whether it’s through providing workplace resources, speaking up when you hear discriminatory remarks, or brushing up on your pronoun etiquette (including putting yours in your email signature).

TDOR vigils and services will be happening this evening across the globe.  If you are in DC, a large event will be held 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM at the Metropolitan Community Church of Washington, 474 Ridge St. NW.