Transgender Day of Remembrance

The Center on Substance Use and Health stands in solidarity of the transgender and non-binary lives taken too soon by violence. We embrace this community, and we remain committed to inclusivity, safety, and positive health outcomes in our research for transgender and non-binary individuals.

Below are words from the Department of Human Resources of the San Francisco Department of Public Health. Being a part of SFDPH, these words do not only reflect the values and beliefs of our Center but the greater health department and our commitment to the health of all San Franciscans.

“While in San Francisco we celebrate Transgender Awareness Month, we must not forget the origins of this observance: Transgender Day of Remembrance, which is commemorated every November 20th. This occasion honors those we have lost due to transphobia in the past year. In 2021 alone, at least 44 transgender and non-binary people (the majority of whom were Black and Latina trans women) have been murdered due to transphobia in the United States. In many instances, these violent attacks are a result of ignorance, bias, and dehumanizing portrayals of transgender and non-binary people. In response, we advocate for education as a path to compassion, recognition, and respect.

As City and County employees, we inhabit a city with a rich and groundbreaking LGBTQ+ history – including the 1966 Compton’s Cafeteria Riot, three years before Stonewall. San Francisco likely has the largest proportion of transgender and non-binary residents in the country. What we do here creates a ripple effect throughout LGBTQ+ communities worldwide. Therefore, it is fundamental that we continue to lead the way on the journey towards greater equity.”