Trans Day of Remembrance

Today is Trans Day of Remembrance (Nov 20): a day when we at McDougall United Church reflect on every trans life taken too soon. 

We remember the names we know personally, the names held in the hearts of our extended family of faith around the world, and the countless names we never hear. 

Our hearts break at the ongoing violence, rejection, and fear that continue to shape the lives of trans people and all members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

This year our grief meets a deeper anger. 

In Alberta, the use of the notwithstanding clause yesterday to strip human rights from trans youth has shown once again that the rights and dignity of trans youth can be set aside for the political gain of a small few who have turned from their promises of service. 

The impact is real. 

The harm is real. 

But most of all, the message it sends to vulnerable young people is absolutely devastating.  

As people of faith, we condemn this senseless injustice and cruelty for what it is: the deliberate victimization of an already-marginalized and vulnerable community, and we commit ourselves anew to help build the world that God desires; a world where every trans life is honoured as sacred, every trans person is recognized as bearing the image of God, and every trans youth knows safety, belonging, and the freedom to live with authenticity and hope.

We stand with our trans siblings today and every day. 

We mourn with those who mourn. We cry out for justice.

We will work for a future where all lives are lived fully and freely.

May our grief deepen our resolve for justice.

May love guide us all, as we work to build the inclusive, expansive community that God longs for.

And so we pray ...

God who knows our truest selves,

and who calls us by our truest names,
gather us into your compassion today.
Hold every trans person who grieves, who fears,
and who hopes for a safer tomorrow.
Hold close those who are exhausted
by the struggle for dignity and safety.

Nurture in us a deep love for one another
and a courage that stands in true solidarity.
Grant wisdom and steady resolve
to all who work for justice.
Shape our communities into places of refuge
where people are met with grace, protection, and love.

Let your Spirit move through us in every act of compassion,
so that our lives become signs of your love
in a world longing for healing.
In your grace, lead us forward together
until all can live and love and thrive without fear.

Amen

Learn more about the Affirming Work that McDougall does here.