Hirono Leads Colleagues in Introducing Resolution to Commemorate Transgender Day of Remembrance

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) led eight of her Senate colleagues in introducing a resolution commemorating November 20, 2023, as Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR). The House companion bill was introduced by Representatives Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) and Sara Jacobs (D-CA).  

“Transgender and gender-nonconforming people, particularly trans women of color, continue to face senseless discrimination and violence throughout the country,” said Senator Mazie Hirono. “This resolution honors the memory of the transgender and gender non-conforming people whose lives were lost in acts of violence and raises awareness of the dangers trans people face today. No one should have to live their lives in fear simply for existing. Trans rights are human rights, and I will continue fighting so people in Hawaii and across the country—regardless of their gender identity—can live their lives freely and authentically.”

Following the still-unsolved murder of Rita Hester, a transgender woman of color, Gwendolyn Ann Smith—a transgender writer, designer, and activist—founded TDOR to honor Hester and other transgender people whose lives were lost to violence. The TDOR resolution memorializes the lives of transgender people lost due to violence in the United States and around the world.

In addition to Senator Hirono, the resolution was cosponsored by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

The full text of the resolution is available here.