Transgender Day of Remembrance Community Resources
In 1999, transgender advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith held a vigil to honour the memory of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed the year previous. This vigil commemorated all the transgender people lost to violence since Rita Hester’s death and began an important tradition that has become what we know today as the annual Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR).
Each year on November 20th, the Pride Centre gathers to observe Transgender Day of Remembrance, honouring transgender, two-spirit and gender-diverse individuals who have lost their lives to transphobic violence. This day provides a solemn space for reflection, community support and remembrance. See event details below to join us in mourning the 333 trans and gender-diverse individuals lost to violence from October 1st, 2024 to September 30th, 2025.
Content Warning: Learn more about these individuals here
Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) Event
Date: November 20th, 2025
Memorial Space
- Location: The Gallery (second floor of Wyckham House)
- Time: 11:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Ceremony
- Location: Second Floor Lounge Area (outside The Gallery)
- Time: 12:00 pm
Community Resources:
Here are some year-round community resources in Calgary dedicated to supporting transgender, two-spirit and gender-diverse individuals. These resources provide essential services, including mental health support, legal advocacy and safe spaces for connection. Whether you feel like you could use an extra support system, or an ally looking to learn about local resources, check out these organizations:
Skipping Stone is a charitable, not for profit organization dedicated to support Trans and Gender diverse youths, adults, and families with comprehensive low barrier access to the support they need and deserve.
Skipping Stone’s Trans Affirming Network
A collection of local and inclusive businesses in Calgary compiled by Skipping Stone for Transgender and diverse folks, ranging from voice classes to surgery support groups.
Various drop-in support programs for Transgender individuals, allies and families.
Simultaneous in-person and online events structured around building community and creating a safe space for anyone who is a part of 2SLGBTQ+ and allies.
Informative sessions and breakdowns for anyone looking to learn more about transgender acceptance, programs and support networks.
Trans Lifeline’s Hotline is a peer support phone service run by trans people for our trans and questioning peers. Call us if you need someone trans to talk to, even if you’re not in a crisis or if you’re not sure you’re trans.
Trans Equality Society of Alberta
TESA’s mission is to be a witness to and a voice for matters concerning trans Albertans. TESA was formed in the hopes that building a traditional non-profit advocacy group would open opportunities for formal engagement with authorities who otherwise overlook the unique needs of the larger trans community. TESA engages in advocacy and education in three primary areas: government,outreach, and community development.
JusticeTrans is focused on providing public legal information and education, by using our website as a comprehensive resource, conducting 2S/TNBGD specific research, and engaging with the communities we serve to lead the efforts of our organization.
Resource list for provincial and federal resources for transgender Canadians
Custom and handmade gender-affirming gear.
Funding for Transition Surgeries in Alberta
Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Young People
If you are looking for additional support or resources, visit the Pride Centre in Room Z307 or email pridecentre@samru.ca.
For general inquiries or suggestions, you can message us at info@samru.ca.
