This blog was written by Jax Dowdell and Eddy Robinson. Edited by Alisha Ostberg.
Table of Contents
Why Transgender Day of Remembrance Matters
Each year on November 20, the transgender community and allies unite to honour the lives of transgender individuals lost to violence. Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) began in 1999, following the tragic murder of Rita Hester, a 34-year-old Black trans woman in Boston. The first vigil, organized by Gwendolyn Ann Smith, marked a decisive moment as names of trans people killed since Hester’s death were read aloud, a poignant tradition that reverberates globally to this day. TDOR serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing risks, discrimination, and systemic violence that continue to plague trans communities, with particular emphasis on Black trans women.
In Canada, transgender individuals continue to face alarmingly high rates of gender-based violence. According to Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE), 59% of transgender and gender-diverse people experience violent victimization, starkly contrasted with 37% of their cisgender counterparts.
A Conversation with Victoria Bucholtz
This year, in observance of Transgender Day of Remembrance, our team had the opportunity to speak with Victoria Bucholtz, Director of Learning and Engagement at Skipping Stone. Victoria possesses a doctorate in History from the University of Calgary, specializing in gender theory. As a 2SLGBTQIA+ facilitator and educator at Mount Royal University, she brings invaluable insights to the ongoing conversation surrounding trans rights and remembrance.
In our conversation, she emphasized the importance of allyship and community support:
“The small size of the trans community makes it crucial to rely on allies for support and rights restoration.”
VICTORIA bUCHOLTZ
About Skipping Stone
Skipping Stone is a key resource for transgender and gender-diverse youth, adults, and families in Calgary. The organization focuses on empowerment and affirmation, offering safe spaces, peer connections, and practical support for navigating healthcare, legal processes, and identity-related changes.
Their programs include:
Community Coaching
Participants are matched with experienced coaches who provide guidance, encouragement, and support while helping build confidence and resilience.
Gender-Affirming Gear & ID Support
This includes access to binders, packers, and breast forms, along with help completing name changes, gender marker updates, and other essential identity documents.
Trans-Affirming Network & Education
Skipping Stone connects individuals with affirming healthcare, legal resources, and community supports. They also offer workshops for organizations looking to create more inclusive and supportive environments.
SafeLink Alberta: Supporting Transgender Communities
At SafeLink Alberta, we’re committed to making sure trans and gender-diverse individuals can access the care, resources, and support they need to feel safe and supported.
Our work includes:
Accessible, affirming outreach and risk-reduction programs
We deliver services that meet people where they’re at, offering information, supplies, and support without judgment.
Safe spaces and peer connection
We create welcoming environments where transgender community members can connect, share experiences, and access peer support when they need it most.
Non judgmental and confidential STI Testing
Testing services are available at our Calgary and Medicine Hat offices, offering low-barrier, confidential, and non-judgmental screening for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis C, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. We provide treatment for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea, and offer referrals for HIV and hepatitis C care.
Partnerships that strengthen care and advocacy
Collaborating with organizations like Skipping Stone helps expand networks of care, education, and community advocacy across the region.
By highlighting both Skipping Stone’s vital work and SafeLink Alberta’s programs, we show that the trans community is not alone. Together, we support resilience, celebrate trans lives, and advocate for rights and safety.
Transgender Day of Rememberance in Calgary
In Calgary, TDOR will be marked by events organized by Skipping Stone and community partners:
Transgender Day of Remembrance Letter-Writing Event
On November 20, Skipping Stone is hosting a drop-in letter-writing event to honour Trans Day of Remembrance. Community members are invited to stop by any time between 10:00am and 7:00pm to write letters in support of trans rights, safety, and inclusion. The event takes place in the Skipping Stone Board Room on the ground floor, and all are welcome to participate.
Open Sanctuary: Community Gathering for TDOR
Following the city vigil at McDougall Centre, Knox United Church will open its doors for an evening sanctuary space. From 8:00pm to 11:00pm on November 20, community members are invited to rest, reflect, and gather in a warm, supportive environment. The church will offer clean, safe washrooms, warm drinks, and space to sit with others who are remembering and honouring the day. The gathering takes place at Knox United Church, 506 4 St SW in Calgary, and all are welcome.
It’s Time to Get Involved
Victoria also discussed the mounting worries about Bill 9, which could strip important protections for transgender people by using the notwithstanding clause. In order to guarantee that trans voices are heard, supported, and protected, Skipping Stone is already organizing, planning community demonstrations, advocacy campaigns, and educational initiatives.
She reminded us that Transgender Day of Remembrance is about more than just grieving; it’s about realizing the significance of events like Transgender Day of Visibility in March. Resilience, which frequently results from confronting grief and violence head-on, is what makes visibility possible.
Victoria urges Calgarians and Albertans to do everything within their power, including attending events, making donations, sending letters, and normalizing the presence of transgender people in daily life. Every act of solidarity has an impact and ensures that fewer names will need to be said at vigils in the future, year after year.
Here are some ways to support:
- Attend TDOR events in Calgary (listed above).
- Donate to the Skipping Stone Foundation or SafeLink Alberta to support life-saving work.
- Advocate for trans rights and human rights in your community.
TDOR is a solemn yet vital reminder: trans lives matter, their stories deserve to be told, and collective action makes a difference.