Trans Day of Remembrance (TDoR) is here, a day when we remember transgender individuals who lost their lives due to violence and discrimination. It’s a day to think about the tough times faced by the transgender community and to show love and support.

Learn from Real People with Real Stories

An important thing to remember is that behind all the opinions of what people personally think about gender identify, there are real people with stories worth hearing. Take mine, for example.

Nearly 40 years ago, my godmother, Frances, came out to our family as transgender. I still remember that day like it was yesterday. None of us knew much about what it meant, and we had a million questions. What really stands out in my memory, even back then, was how she shared her true self with us. It was like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders, and she looked happier than I’d ever seen her. Her journey to accepting herself wasn’t a walk in the park. She had to deal with obstacles, face prejudice at work, and even went through a divorce. But deep down, the happiness of being her true self was incredible, even in a world that often didn’t get it.

Through her journey, our family not only learned more, but also became more compassionate and understanding. My godmother’s bravery gave me the strength, a decade later, to come to terms with my own identity as a gay man. I’m grateful to her for having blazed that trail for understanding.

Use Your Voice to Support Others

More recently, my best friend, Royce, came out as trans. For them, it was a realization of who they really are. Without the acceptance culture I experienced, and without my godmother’s courage all those years ago, I don’t think I would have been able to be the supportive friend they needed.

It’s more important than ever to stand together in support of transgender people who simply want to be seen and respected. Before we judge someone based on their pronouns, let’s remember that behind those words is a unique story waiting to be heard—a story filled with the universal human desire for understanding and acceptance.

Create a World Where Everyone Can Be Their True Self

On this Trans Day of Remembrance, I’m thankful for my godmother’s courage and strength. Even though she didn’t face violence, she did experience discrimination, which is another tough part of being transgender. Her journey reminds us that deep down, all we want is to be accepted and to find our place in this world.

So today, and every day, let’s honor those we’ve lost, show love to those still fighting for their rights, and work together to create a world where everyone, regardless of their gender identity, can be their true selves without fear.