Each year between 13th and 19th November, people and organisations around the country participate in Transgender Awareness Week.
It is a time for reflection, a time for celebration, and a time for us to come together as a community to highlight the issues faced by trans, non-binary, and gender diverse people. If you want to find out more, watch this short video:
How you can get involved during the week?
On Friday 17th November 2023, we encourage all GC colleagues to come to work wearing one or all the colours of the transgender flag – blue, pink, or white. Share your photos on social media or email to EDI@growthco.uk
We've created an image which you can include in your Outlook email signature during Transgender Awareness Week – click here to access and download the signature. ('Save as' the image file to your downloads, then open up a 'new email' and insert it into your Outlook using the 'Signature' button).
Transgender Day of Remembrance
Following Transgender Awareness Week, is Transgender Day of Remembrance – which is an annual observance on Monday 20th November, that honours the memory of the transgender people whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence. Many cities across the UK are holding vigils in the evening to reflect on the last 12 months and all those individuals whose lives have been lost.
Vigils:
Manchester - Candlelit Vigil
The Candlelit Vigil is a significant event that marks the culmination of the Manchester Pride Festival. Taking place in the serene surroundings of Sackville Gardens, this moment of reflection brings together LGBTQ+ communities and allies to remember those we've lost to HIV, and to stand united in the fight against the global epidemic and the persistent stigma that surrounds it. Read more about Manchester Vigil here.
Sheffield - Trans Day of Remembrance, Mon 20 Nov 2023, 17:30-19:30, Sheffield Winter Garden.
Join us to pay your respects and honour the memory of those who have sadly lost their lives to transphobia in 2023.
Speakers, Stalls, Videos, Messages of Solidarity, Hope and Allyship from 5.30pm. Vigil at 6.30pm.
More information
This report from Stonewall gives statistics which reinforce why Trans Day of Remembrance and Transgender Awareness Week are so important.