Wednesday 20th November marked the 24th anniversary of Trans Day of Remembrance, an annual occasion which commemorates all transgender people who have died at the hands of violence due to attacks on their identity.
In the past year, there have been 350 recorded deaths of Trans people, with the actual number expected to be higher. This is one of the highest years on record.
The University held several events to mark the day, including a trans flag making workshop and a vigil, held on the evening of the 20th November in Bristo Square.
Many people gathered with flags and candles to mourn those lost.
“I am scared for my future”
The atmosphere at the vigil was one of mourning, but also one of anger and determination to fight for the equal rights of trans people.
Members of the community, including the LGBTQ Liberation Officer and the LGBTQ Liberation Officer spoke at the vigil, sharing personal stories as well as the bigger pictures of the situation for trans individuals in today’s society.
“Today I am mourning all of the wonderful trans lives lost in the past year,” said Ash Scholz, the LGBTQ Liberation Officer when addressing the crowd.
There was also a focus on the increasing amount of anti-trans legislation, both here in the UK and across the Atlantic in the United States.
“I am scared for my future,” Ash continued, echoing a consensus felt by many in the community at this time.
Ollie Cahya, the Trans and Nonbinary Liberation Officer continued this message in their speech.
“This period we are living in is horrid,” Ollie said when addressing the group.
Fight like hell for the living
The increasing restrictions placed on gender-affirming care has been a great concern for the community, and there are worries that it will increase mental health issues such as depression and anxiety due to the lack of control people feel over their own bodies.
These concerns however have increased the determination of the community to fight for their rights, as was clear in the messages displayed.
“I will mourn the dead, and fight like hell for the living,” Ollie finished, which was met with cheers from the crowd.
“Trans Remembrance Day, Berlin, Nollendorfplatz“is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.