On Saturday, the Minnesota House and Senate Queer Caucuses gathered to observe Transgender Day of Remembrance, marking an annual occasion that sheds light on the violence fatal to trans, Two-Spirit, intersex, and gender-expansive individuals. This day, which falls on November 20th, is dedicated to honoring and remembering those whose lives were tragically ended by acts of transphobic and transmisogynistic violence. In memory of these individuals, the caucuses released a statement, as Senate DFL Minnesota reported.
A disheartening study by the Human Rights Campaign found in 2024 that victims of anti-transgender violence were overwhelmingly people of color. Of these, 56% were Black transgender women, 78% were people of color, and 63% were fatally shot. Moreover, in cases where the killer was known, 42% of the victims were killed by someone close to them – a romantic or sexual partner, a friend, or even a family member. Authorities or media outlets misgendered or deadnamed 38% of victims, or never recognized them as Two Spirit, trans, or gender expansive at all, according to Senate DFL Minnesota's report.
The caucuses' statement highlighted the resilience and importance of the Two-Spirit and trans communities, recounting, "Indigenous Two-Spirit and trans peoples come from an unshakeable tradition and boundless futures." The statement pointed to the sacred roles that Two-Spirit individuals traditionally held as healers, teachers, and leaders. It evoked the names of Nex Benedict, Savannah Ryan Williams, and Sam Nordquist, among others, as a testament to the lives that should still be vibrant in our communities today.
In recalling the painful losses, the Queer Caucuses drew attention to a harrowing trend whereby "Black, Brown, and Indigenous trans women are disproportionately targeted and murdered at alarming rates." This fact, coupled with a collective grief, has spurred a commitment to action. The caucuses resolved to work tirelessly to build a state that respects civil liberties and promotes gender freedom for all Minnesotans, recognizing the persistent presence of trans and Two Spirit individuals who continue to seek joy and self-determination despite adversity, as outlined in their statement published by Senate DFL Minnesota.
The origins of Transgender Day of Remembrance date back to 1999, when trans women Gwendolyn Ann Smith, Nancy Nangeroni, and Jahaira DeAlto founded the observance to mourn the murders of Rita Hester and Chanelle Pickett. Both were victims of transphobic violence in Massachusetts during the 1990s. Reflecting on the importance of this day serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles facing the trans community and as a call to continue striving for a future that honors the dignity and humanity of every individual.
The Queer Legislators Caucus, consisting of 2SLGBTQIA+ members of the Minnesota State House and Senate, has a mission to advance and protect the rights of the queer community as well as those of intersecting identities. Their focus remains on creating a more equal and just society, where violence against marginalized groups is not only recognized but actively combatted through legislative and societal change.
