The PAGE Center recognized Transgender Day of Remembrance by holding a memorial ceremony in McFeely’s Cafe on Monday, Nov. 20. The Trans Affinity Group also painted a mural in CUB Lounge 5 in commemoration of annual observance.
Page Center Director Miller Hoffman opened the ceremony with a welcome:
“Today, we remember those that we lost to violence, trans violence in all of its forms. We remember those who are lost to scorn and ridicule, and to the violence of shame. We remember those who are rejected by families, friends and communities. And we celebrate today the lives and contributions of trans and genderqueer people. We name us to remember us and to honor our truths and realities in all of the ways that trans and genderqueer folk have changed the world.”
There was a presentation of music, “Stars,” by singer-songwriter and trans woman Namoli Brennet: “Maybe we’re the victims of reincarnation / Maybe we’re the phantoms of manifestation / Maybe we’re just here to fix our mistakes again.”
The ceremony then hosted an open mic for the community to share any words. Community members shared their experiences and expressed their gratitude for the community they found within the PAGE Center and the Trans Affinity group.
After the open mic, ceremony attendees walked to the CUB Amphitheater to light candles and recognize the names and lives of those lost to violence against trans and genderqueer people.
The tables at the memorial ceremony were decorated with origami peace cranes, symbolizing wholeness, shared humanity and peace. Those who attended the ceremony were encouraged to take a peace crane with them to be reminded of the community and to remember the names and lives honored.
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