Trans Awareness Week, held from Nov. 13 to 19, along with the Trans Day of Remembrance on Nov. 20, holds deep significance for our University community as we come together to honor and support our transgender and non-binary members.  

“Transgender Awareness Week isn’t just a time to raise awareness, but also to celebrate trans identities,” said Caleb Harwood, U of G’s sexual and gender diversity advisor. “We encourage our community to take time to listen to transgender stories, whether through a film or a book, and to reflect on how they can be a part of building an inclusive and welcoming campus culture.” 

As a core part of our mission and values, U of G is committed to providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive campus environment for everyone. We believe that every member of our community deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued. 

Transgender Awareness Week

Celebrated from Nov. 13 to 19, Transgender Awareness Weeks aims to increase the visibility and awareness of the transgender community, while also calling attention to the challenges they face.

According to Statistics Canada, transgender and gender diverse people in Canada are significantly more likely than cisgender people to have been a victim of violence. By raising awareness and celebrating trans people, we can collectively work to combat violence and hatred.  

Transgender Day of Remembrance

On Nov. 20, we observe the Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), a day dedicated to honouring the lives lost to anti-transgender violence and hatred. Transgender advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith started TDOR in 1999 as a vigil to honour Rita Hester, a transgender woman killed in 1998. Today, this day is recognized with vigils and ceremonies to remember victims of anti-transgender violence. 

Student Experience at U of G has organized a series of events and activities to commemorate this week and invites you to join in celebrating and remembering our trans community. 

Upcoming Events

• Tote Bag Painting

  Join OUTline for a creative afternoon of tote bag painting in celebration of Transgender Awareness Week! Students are welcome to drop in any time that works for them. All materials are provided, including fabric paint, brushes, and, of course, a tote bag you can take home with you! Whether you’re an experienced artist or just looking to have some fun, this is your chance to unleash your creativity while connecting with others.   

  • Friday, Nov 15, 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (UC 303) 

• Intersectional Discussion Series

  For this week’s LGBTQ2IA+ Weekly Discussion, we will be joined by Alicia (she/her) from Cultural Diversity. Together, we will talk a bit about transgender history, highlighting many Black, Indigenous, and racialized figures in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. This is not meant exclusively to be a history lesson, but also a space to gather and center the voices of experiences from queer, trans, Black and racialized students. 

  • Tuesday, Nov. 19, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. (UC 390) 

• Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR) Processing Space

  Sexual and Gender Diversity and OUTline recognize that that TDoR can bring up many hard emotions for Trans and Gender Diverse Students. That is why Caleb Harwood (all pronouns), U of G’s Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisor, will be holding space for Trans and Gender Diverse students to come and be in a space that is understanding, open to emotions, and allows students to process emotions in the way they deem fit. 

  • Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. (UC 302) 

Supports for Trans and LGBTQ2IA+ Students

Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisor

All students can access the support of the Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisor, who is here to help support them as they navigate school and their identity. 

Programs, Events and Opportunities

Looking to get involved in programs and events? Check out LGBTQ2IA+ clubs and organizations on campus, and browse events offered by OUTline on GryphLife. This year, OUTline celebrates 50 years of supporting LGBTQ2IA+ students on campus. 

OUTline Online Chat

The OUTline Online Chat is the place to connect with trained volunteers in a discreet, confidential and private online environment. OUTline also organizes events and activities throughout the fall and winter term. 

Training for Faculty and Staff

Interested in learning how you can support LGBTQ2IA+ people on campus? Check out the Positive Space Project, a learning module that aims to increase awareness of LGBTQ2IA+ issues on campus and continue to support a welcoming environment. 

Access more training from Diversity and Human Rights and attend Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Workshop Wednesdays, where DHR provides noon-hour workshops on a variety of topics. 

During Trans Awareness Week, we encourage everyone to reflect on how we can all contribute to a more inclusive and accepting environment. Let us use this week as an opportunity to listen, learn, and advocate for the rights and well-being of transgender and non-binary individuals. 

Thank you for your support and involvement in making the University of Guelph a welcoming and inclusive place for all.