RESOLUTION NO. RS2017-962

A resolution recognizing November 20, 2017 as Transgender Day of Remembrance.

WHEREAS, Transgender Day of Remembrance, which occurs annually on November 20, is a solemn occasion to memorialize and to honor those who have lost their lives or experienced violence because of their gender identity or gender expression; and

WHEREAS, Gwendolyn Ann Smith, a transgender woman, founded Transgender Day of Remembrance in 1999 to memorialize the murder of transgender woman Rita Hester in Allston, Massachusetts; and

WHEREAS, Transgender Day of Remembrance has been observed in over 185 cities throughout more than 20 countries; and

WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council recognizes that transgender members of our society are disproportionately affected by hate crimes and violence, and experience a myriad of challenges in their daily lives, including discrimination, disproportionately high levels of unemployment, and limited access to health care; and

WHEREAS, on Transgender Day of Remembrance, we pause to remember the hundreds of transgender people across the nation who are the victims of hate-motivated violence every year, including bullying, sexual assault, and homicide; and

WHEREAS, despite the challenges faced by the transgender community, by observing the Transgender Day of Remembrance, we recognize, admire, and celebrate the growing awareness and acceptance of transgender people in Nashville and across the nation; and

WHEREAS, on Transgender Day of Remembrance we honor and commemorate the strength, commitment, and remarkable and immense efforts of those working to secure full and equal civil rights for all people, regardless of gender identity or expression. Organizations committed to these efforts include the Tennessee Transgender Political Coalition, the Tennessee Vals, and the Metro Human Relations Commission.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. The Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as recognizing November 20, 2017 as Transgender Day of Remembrance.

Section 2. The Metropolitan Council is directed to prepare a copy of this Resolution to be presented to the Tennessee Transgender Political Coalition, the Tennessee Vals, and the Metro Human Relations Commission.

Section 3. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Brett Withers, Mina Johnson, Scott Davis, Nancy VanReece