CMHA Halton honours Transgender Day of Remembrance 

Nov 19, 2024

At CMHA Halton, we recognize that the violence faced by 2 Spirit, trans, and non-binary individuals is not a thing of the past—it is an urgent and ongoing crisis. On Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) on November 20, we mourn those whose lives were lost to anti-trans violence while acknowledging the persistent systemic barriers and discrimination these communities endure today. 

The Reality of Anti-Trans Violence 

The statistics are staggering. According to the 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan Survey, 39% of 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians have experienced violence due to discrimination in the past five years. Alarmingly, this includes: 

• 63% of Two-Spirit individuals and 54% of trans women reporting experiences of physical and sexual violence. 

• 67% of trans women and 55% of trans men considering personal safety risks when deciding how to present in public. 

• 91% of victims do not report incidents to the police due to mistrust and fear of inaction. 

In Ontario, 40% of 2SLGBTQI+ individuals report experiencing violence or discrimination related to their identities. 

Mental Health Impacts 

Two-spirit, trans, and gender-diverse individuals face higher rates of mental health challenges, with 30% reporting fair or poor mental health, compared to fewer than 10% of non-2SLGBTQI+ individuals. Unfortunately, only 17% of 2SLGBTQI+ Ontarians have access to specialized mental health services. 

Barriers like discrimination in healthcare settings, a lack of culturally safe and affirming spaces, and social stigma exacerbate these challenges. For example, 21% of trans individuals in Ontario avoid emergency care during crises due to fear of mistreatment. 

A Community of Resilience 

Despite these barriers, the 2 Spirit, trans, and non-binary communities continue to demonstrate resilience, advocacy, and strength. TDOR is not only a day of mourning but also a call to action for allies to stand in solidarity and push for systemic change. 

How You Can Support 

1. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the unique challenges faced by gender-diverse individuals and share this knowledge. 

2. Advocate for Inclusive Policies: Push for affirming and culturally safe mental health services. 

3. Amplify Voices: Support organizations and initiatives led by 2SLGBTQI+ communities. 

Resources for Support 

• LGBT Youthline: Peer-led support for 2SLGBTQI+ youth across Ontario. 

• The Trevor Project: Crisis support for 2SLGBTQI+ youth. 

• Rainbow Health Ontario: Training and resources for affirming healthcare. 

• Trans Wellness Ontario: Mental wellness support for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. 

Terminology Matters 

Using affirming names and pronouns is a simple but powerful way to show respect and support. It’s about acknowledging identity and challenging harmful norms. 

Honouring Lives, Building Futures 

This TDOR, let’s commit to creating a safer, more inclusive world for 2 Spirit, trans, and gender-diverse individuals. Together, we can confront transphobia, amplify marginalized voices, and ensure everyone can live free from fear and violence.