Secretary of State John Kerry on Sunday
issued a press release recognizing November 20 as the Transgender Day
of Remembrance (TDOR), the day set aside to remember the victims of
transphobia.
“On Transgender Day of Remembrance,
the United States solemnly honors the memory of the many transgender
individuals who lost their lives to senseless acts of violence,”
Kerry wrote.
“Transgender persons around the world
are targeted by rising levels of violence fueled by hatred and
bigotry. This is a global challenge and we all must do more to
protect transgender persons on the basis of equality and dignity.”
Kerry said that the U.S. Constitution
“affirms that everyone has equal protection under the law.”
“Today we stand in solidarity with
the incredible resilience and leadership of the transgender community
in responding to stigma and marginalization. Transgender persons
deepen our diversity, broaden our communities, and strengthen the
values we cherish. When all persons reach their full human potential,
free from fear, intimidation, and violence, nations become more just,
secure and prosperous.”
“The United States remains committed
to advance the human rights of all persons, including transgender
persons. On this Transgender Day of Remembrance, we reaffirm equality
for all as part of our core constitutional principles and as a human
rights priority of U.S. diplomacy,” Kerry added.