The spire of One World Trade Center and the Kosciuszko Bridge will be lit in honor of Transgender Day of Remembrance. The structures will be illuminated in the colors of the transgender flag tonight in memory of transgender individuals who tragically lost their lives to hate-based violence and to celebrate the leadership of transgender communities. This event, started in 1999 by Gwendolyn Ann Smith, a transgender woman, memorializes those who have been murdered due to transphobia, and has grown into an International event observed in over 185 cities throughout more than 20 countries.
"With the lighting of these iconic New York landmarks, we remember those in the transgender community whose lives were senselessly cut short to hate and bigotry, and honor the leadership and resiliency of those who continue to fight for equality to this day," Governor Cuomo said. "New York has always been a leader in protecting the rights of LGBTQ people, and while many strides have been made, we know our work is not done. As Washington continues to sow hate and intolerance, we stand with the transgender community and pledge to continue to fight for a safe and equal state for all."
An epidemic of violence against transgender people is still gripping this country, especially those in communities of color and others that are multiply marginalized. In the U.S., transgender women of color's average life expectancy is just 35 years, less than half of the overall national average. Despite this unacceptable number, transgender women of color continue to fight for their communities' ability to not just survive, but to thrive.
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Sources: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and GLAAD
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