Tla’amin Nation Statement on Transgender Day of Remembrance
Creating safer and more dignified spaces for our trans relations
November 20, 2024
Today, Tla’amin Nation observes the Transgender Day of Remembrance, a somber occasion to honour the lives of transpeople who have been lost to violence and discrimination.
“Transpeople have always been a part of our Tla’amin circle,” said Community Services Housepost Brandon Louie. “Colonialism has undermined and degraded the roles that two-spirit and transpeople traditionally held in our communities and we are still healing from that. Today we reflect on what each of us can do to make this world a safer and more dignified place for our trans relations.”
Tla’amin taʔəwprovides ancestral teachings to overcome harmful transphobia:
- qwɛqwaystowɬ (Communication) -Always be careful of your words because they can be like weapons and can never be erased.
- tiystəm (respect) Teach your children to behave appropriately toward other people and in public so they will carry your values.
- pit qwayɛgəns (Humility) – don’t make fun of other people.
- tiyhɛgən mɛtəm (Integrity) -Be a living example of the change you want to see in others.
Tla’amin Nation is committed to a zero-tolerance stance against transphobia and gender-based violence. Such actions have no place in our homes, communities, or anywhere in Tla’amin society. Our government stands in solidarity with our trans relations and allies in the pursuit of justice and peace.
“Our young transpeople deserve the right to grow old and become community leaders,” said Community Services Director Losa Luaifoa. “It’s up to us to create and preserve safe spaces so this can happen. To do this we need to reach back to our teachings about care and respect.”
On this day of remembrance, we call on community members to join us in reflection and action. Let us work together to reverse harmful colonial ideas, challenge prejudice, and ensure that all Tla’amin people can live free from fear and harm.
Visit https://www.weareallies.ca/ to learn more about gender affirming care and to hear from Tla’amin physician and public health expert Dr. Evan Adams. https://www.weareallies.ca/gender-affirming-care-is-important-for-ttnb-youth-health-and-wellbeing
Read the Peak to learn more about Transgender Day of Remembrance https://www.prpeak.com/health/what-to-know-about-transgender-day-of-remembrance-and-violence-against-trans-people-9835507