Transgender Community Honored on Trans Day of Remembrance by Health Department

Philadelphia– In honor of Transgender Day of Remembrance, the Department of Public Health issued a statement reflecting on the lives of at least 26 transgender and gender non-conforming individuals who were tragically killed in Philadelphia in 2023.

“It is with a heavy heart that we solemnly remember the lives of those who have been lost through violent means,” said Division of HIV Health Director Dr. Kathleen Brady. “As we honor Transgender Day of Remembrance, we stand together, both saddened and infuriated, as we grapple with the stark reality that 88% of these victims were people of color, with 54% identified as Black transgender women.”

The statistics reveal that 73% of the victims lost their lives to gun violence, highlighting the pressing need for comprehensive measures to curb the proliferation of firearms. Equally concerning is the fact that 47% of victims with a known assailant were killed by a romantic/sexual partner, friend, or family member. This underscores the critical importance of fostering safe and supportive environments within interpersonal relationships.

Sadly, 50% of the victims were misgendered or deadnamed by authorities or the press, compounding the pain experienced by the trans community and their loved ones. It is imperative that we work collectively to rectify this injustice and ensure that every individual deserves dignity and respect, regardless of their gender identity.

As we honor Transgender Day