A resolution commemorating November 20, 2024 as Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) — introduced today by four members of the Congressional Equality Caucus — states that there’s currently “an epidemic of violence against transgender Americans” that will worsen under Donald Trump’s anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-trans agenda.

The resolution, which was co-sponsored by 92 Congressmembers, notes that at least 38 transgender or gender nonconforming people have been violently killed in the U.S. and at least 327 killed worldwide since the last TDOR. These murders have been fueled by anti-trans legislation that has worsened rates of violence, suicidality, homelessness, carceral abuse, health care disparities among trans people, the resolution states.

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“Our bicameral resolution is a powerful reminder that anti-trans rhetoric can cost lives,” said Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA), one of the four Equality Caucus members who introduced the resolution.

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“So many people – especially youth – in the trans community are feeling scared and anxious right now, worried about their ability to get the health care they need, the future of their rights, and their safety,” Jacobs added. “Donald Trump’s anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-trans agenda will likely fuel this anxiety and violence against queer communities.”

The resolution notes that one-third of transgender women and one-half of transgender women who are Black, Middle Eastern, multiracial, or undocumented have ever experienced homelessness.

It also noted that one in 20 trans people attempt suicide each year, a rate that’s almost 10 times higher than the rest of the U.S. population. These rates are especially high amongst trans youth who have had their rights to gender-affirming care stripped in 26 states, despite such care being considered as the best standard by all major American medical associations.

The rollback of these medical rights have left parents afraid their children may be removed from their homes if they seek such care for their trans kids, the resolution adds.

It also notes that trans immigrants have died in American detention centers due to medical neglect, injury, and abuse at the hands of staff, and that trans inmates in jails and prisons also experience high levels of violence and discrimination.

The epidemic of violence has been hampered by a severe lack of data, the resolution states, highlighting a need for Congress and the executive branch to pass legislation and policies to protect and preserve trans people’s lives.

“As anti-transgender rhetoric and legislation has increased in the United States over recent years, unfortunately so has anti-transgender violence,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) who also co-introduced the resolution. “Too many transgender people have been killed just for living as their true, authentic selves. These instances, coupled with countless other acts of discrimination, are terrifying — but we won’t waver. I will never back down from fighting to ensure that all trans individuals can exist freely without fear of hate.”

The resolution was co-introduced by Jacobs and Jayapal, who are both members of the Equality Caucus’ Transgender Equality Task Force, as well as by Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI) and Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-HI).

Editor’s note: If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. The Trans Lifeline (1-877-565-8860) is staffed by trans people and will not contact law enforcement. The Trevor Project provides a safe, judgement-free place to talk for youth via chat, text (678-678), or phone (1-866-488-7386). Help is available at all three resources in English and Spanish.

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