Transgender Day of Remembrance
John Leech MP (right) and local Lib Dems at Transgender Day of Remembrance 2009
This weekend, events around the country supported International Transgender Day of Remembrance, held on 20th November each year in memory of those killed due to hatred or prejudice against trans people. The organisers state that 143 people have died as a result of this violence, though it's likely that these crimes are under-reported.
Events were held in Brighton, Coventry, Colchester, London, Manchester and Oxford. At the Manchester candlelit vigil at the Beacon of Hope in Sackville Park, the names of the dead were read out before a minute's silence. There were readings and speakers, including Nick Waddell, the brother of Andrea Waddell who was murdered five weeks ago in Brighton.
Manchester Withington MP John Leech, attending the vigil, said, "Transgender Day of Remembrance is an important occasion which highlights the danger that trans people face as victims of hatred and prejudice. The trans community is often marginalised, and it's important for all of us to listen to their voices and work together to bring an end to transphobic violence across the world."