Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

Each year on November 20, the world recognizes Transgender Day of Remembrance – a day that commemorates the transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming persons who are killed or targeted with violence, discrimination, and abuse simply for living authentically.  Transgender individuals exist in every country, every culture, and every faith tradition.  The United States recognizes Transgender Day of Remembrance to affirm the dignity and human rights of transgender persons globally.

Transgender persons face discrimination in their pursuit of education, housing, work, and health care.  They hear rhetoric that threatens them and their loved ones.  They experience disproportionately high levels of homicide and assault.  Yet, despite these existential challenges, they continue to face the world with courage every day.

It is our collective responsibility to ensure transgender persons can live full lives, without fear of harm.  The United States is committed to fighting for a world that accepts and respects transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming persons.  Until then, we proudly advocate to end transphobic discrimination, violence, and homicide.