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Honoring Transgender Day of Remembrance

Transgender Day of Remembrance 2024

November marks Transgender Awareness Month, a time to uplift the voices of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, celebrate their achievements, and shed light on the challenges they face. Within this important month, Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) holds special significance. Observed annually on November 20, TDOR commemorates the lives of transgender individuals lost to violence and discrimination. It’s a solemn reminder of the resilience of the transgender community and a call to action for allies and institutions to foster a safer, more inclusive world.

The Significance of Transgender Day of Remembrance

TDOR was established in 1999 by transgender advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith to honor the memory of Rita Hester, a transgender woman whose murder remains unsolved. The day has since evolved into an annual observance highlighting the disproportionate violence faced by transgender individuals, particularly transgender women of color. According to reports, transgender people experience higher rates of harassment, discrimination, and violence compared to cisgender individuals, reflecting systemic inequities that demand attention and action.

More than a memorial, TDOR is a moment for education and advocacy. It encourages communities to confront the biases and structures that perpetuate harm, while uplifting the contributions and humanity of transgender individuals. The day also provides an opportunity for organizations to reaffirm their commitment to equity, dignity, and inclusion.

Elation Physical Therapy: Supporting the Transgender Community

At Elation Physical Therapy, we embrace the principles of inclusivity, understanding, and holistic care that align deeply with the spirit of TDOR. Our mission is to empower every individual to move through life authentically and confidently. Recognizing that healthcare is often a barrier for transgender individuals, we are dedicated to breaking down those obstacles with comprehensive, affirming care.

Elation PT is proud to offer specialized services that reflect our commitment to the transgender community. Our ELATION protocol for post-operative gender-affirming surgery care, including FTM chest masculinization recovery, is a cornerstone of our practice. These services address not just the physical rehabilitation needs of our patients but also the emotional and psychological dimensions of recovery. By tailoring our approach to the unique goals and journeys of each individual, we help ensure a supportive and empowering healing experience.

Beyond clinical care, we view TDOR as a time to reflect on how we can continue to advocate for equity within the healthcare system. Discrimination and lack of access to affirming care are significant challenges faced by transgender individuals. By fostering an inclusive environment and educating our team on LGBTQ+ health protocols, we aim to set a standard for compassionate, culturally competent care.

Continuing the Legacy of Advocacy

Transgender Day of Remembrance is not just about mourning losses; it is also about galvanizing change. At Elation Physical Therapy, we honor the lives lost by recommitting to a future where healthcare is accessible, affirming, and empowering for all. We stand with the transgender community not only on November 20 but every day, working to create a world where every individual can thrive without fear or limitation.

This TDOR, let us remember those we have lost, celebrate the progress we’ve made, and remain steadfast in our pursuit of justice and inclusion for all.

Author
Dr. Roy Rivera, Jr., PT, PhD, DPT, MCHES Dr. Roy Rivera, Jr., PT, PhD, DPT, MCHES Dr. Rivera is a licensed physical therapist and owner of Elation Physical Therapy in Houston and Pearland, Texas. Working across a variety of health care settings, Dr. Rivera has a philosophy and interest in helping people reach or return to their peak physical conditions in the face of physiological setbacks. After earning his Bachelor of Arts in Biology at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, Dr. Rivera went on to earn his Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) at The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. Dr. Rivera continued his education at the Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in Provo, Utah, completing his Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT). He then went on to earn his Doctor of Philosophy in Health Studies at Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Texas.

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