CHICAGO – This morning, State Senator Mike Smmons, along with CEO Channyn Lynn Parker of Equality Illinois, Alderperson Bennett Lawson, and community members, honored Transgender Day of Remembrance in Andersonville along the rainbow crosswalk, just steps away from a Trans Black Lives Matter mural. He lifted up the LGBTQ+ community, transgender voices, and shed light on ongoing challenges faced by trans individuals while bringing visibility to the work still needed to ensure equity and justice.

“On this Trans Day of Remembrance, I lift up and honor all of the resplendent achievements of trans people all throughout history. We pause to honor the transgender individuals whose lives have been taken from us too soon by violence, hatred and neglect,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Standing on the corner that is named in memory of our sister, Elise Malary, reminds us that her life mattered, and that showing up, taking up space, and fighting for trans rights is more necessary than ever before.”

Transgender Day of Remembrance honors the lives of transgender and gender-expansive people who have been lost to anti-trans violence and reaffirms a commitment to visibility, safety and dignity for all members of the community. Leadership and presence are vital in ensuring this day is not only one of remembrance, but also one of collective action and solidarity.

“Standing in this space, taking up space, in a public environment designed to celebrate trans and LGBTQ+ lives is really important right now,” said Simmons. “I am so proud to be the first LGBTQ+ senator to represent the 7th District, and I am proud to have introduced and passed legislation to make Illinois a sanctuary state for trans individuals. On this Trans Day of Remembrance, I lift up our trans youth, and remind and encourage everyone to continue to support them and fight for them. I will continue to walk through the fire and fight for our trans community every day, and thank our community for creating spaces where we can celebrate one another.”

To learn more about Transgender Day of Remembrance and more, visit EqualityIllinois.us.

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