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A resolution recognizing November 20, 2024, as Transgender Day of Remembrance in honor of those who have lost their lives to anti-transgender violence.
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WHEREAS, the Transgender Day of Remembrance was established in 1999 by Gwendolyn Ann Smith as a vigil to honor the memory of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was murdered in 1998, and has since become an annual observance to honor the lives of transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals lost to violence, hatred, and discrimination; and
WHEREAS, each year on November 20, communities around the world gather to remember those whose lives have been tragically cut short due to anti-transgender violence and to raise awareness of the ongoing threat faced by transgender individuals, particularly transgender women of color; and
WHEREAS, 2024 marks a critical year in the fight for equality, dignity, and safety for transgender people, as legislative and social challenges persist, making the remembrance of these lost lives all the more poignant; and
WHEREAS, despite ongoing challenges, the residents of Nashville and Davidson County continue to demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity, respect, and protection of all residents, including transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals, through local advocacy, community efforts, and educational initiatives; and
WHEREAS, Transgender Day of Remembrance serves as an important reminder to recognize, support, and protect the rights of the transgender community in Nashville, Davidson County, and beyond, while also committing to work toward a future free from violence and discrimination; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council encourages all residents to reflect on the importance of inclusivity and to honor the memories of those lost, while renewing their commitment to advocate for policies that affirm the dignity and human rights of transgender people.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. That the Metropolitan Council hereby declares November 20, 2024, as Transgender Day of Remembrance in Nashville and Davidson County.
Section 2. That the Metropolitan Council honors the memory of all transgender individuals who have lost their lives to violence and discrimination and expresses its unwavering support for the transgender community.
Section 3. The Metropolitan Council commits to continuing to fight for the safety, equality, and rights of transgender individuals in Nashville and Davidson County, while encouraging all residents to participate in efforts to combat violence and discrimination against the transgender community.
Section 4. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.