Friend, today we are filled with both gratitude and solemn remembrance as we observe Transgender Day of Remembrance. Nova Bright-Williams, Head of Internal Training at The Trevor Project, shares her poignant journey and reflections on this important day. Nova, a trans woman celebrating her tenth Trans Day of Remembrance with The Trevor Project, takes us back to the origins of this global observance in 1999, initiated by Gwendolyn Ann Smith to honor Rita Hester, a trans woman tragically lost in 1998.

In her heartfelt message, Nova expresses gratitude for the acceptance and joy she has found this year, highlighting the significance of honoring those who paved the way for her and the transgender community. She shares a personal milestone of celebrating her first Trans Parent Day and the addition of an incredible trans son to her family. Nova's poignant reflection takes a turn to acknowledge the harsh reality faced by many trans and nonbinary individuals, with an alarming number tragically losing their lives this year.

Nova urges us to remember the lives of transgender people gone too soon, emphasizing the need to dismantle oppressive systems and create a more inclusive world. On this Trans Day of Remembrance, she calls for a collective commitment to end hatred, violence, and discrimination against all trans and nonbinary people. As we reflect, Nova encourages us to let our efforts light the way toward a better, more inclusive future.

Let us join Nova Bright-Williams and The Trevor Project in solemn gratitude, remembering those who are no longer with us and dedicating ourselves to the ongoing fight for a safer, more accepting world for transgender and nonbinary individuals.

With hope and determination,

The Trevor Project