Transgender Day of Remembrance – November 20

Toronto – November 19, 2025 – November 20 marks the Transgender Day of Remembrance — a day to honour the lives of transgender and gender-diverse people lost to violence and discrimination, and to recommit to the ongoing fight for dignity, respect, and equality for all workers.

First observed in 1999, the Transgender Day of Remembrance calls attention to the continued acts of violence faced by transgender and gender-diverse people worldwide. It is a moment to reflect not only on lives lost, but also on the work that remains to ensure that every person, regardless of gender identity or expression, can live and work free from hate and harm.

This day serves as a solemn reminder of the urgent need for solidarity, advocacy, and action across our union and workplaces. Trans and gender-diverse workers continue to face disproportionate barriers — from workplace discrimination and harassment to inequitable access to employment, healthcare, and safety protections.

This year’s observance follows UFCW OUTreach’s first-ever educational conference, held earlier this fall in Philadelphia. The gathering brought together union activists from across North America to discuss how the labour movement can more effectively support 2SLGBTQ+ workers, strengthen solidarity, and build truly inclusive workplaces.

On this Transgender Day of Remembrance, UFCW Canada reaffirms that belonging, safety, and respect must be at the heart of every workplace. Together, through education, advocacy, and solidarity, we honour those we’ve lost — and continue building a future where every worker can live and work with pride and without fear.