Last week, from November 13 to 19, people and organizations across the country participated in Transgender Awareness Week to increase understanding about the transgender community and the issues they face. This is an important week as it leads up to Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20 (TODAY!), an annual observance that remembers and honors the lives of transgender individuals lost in acts of anti-transgender violence.

The Need for Transgender Awareness

The transgender community faces an alarming rate of discrimination and violence. In addition, transgender individuals face high rates of unemployment and homelessness, and have limited access to healthcare and other basic needs.

Transgender Awareness Week is an opportunity to educate oneself about the challenges faced by the transgender community and to become a better ally. By increasing awareness and understanding, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for transgender individuals.

The Significance of Transgender Day of Remembrance

Transgender Day of Remembrance is a day to remember and honor the lives of transgender individuals who have been lost to violence. It is also a day to recognize the ongoing violence faced by the transgender community and to commit to working towards a safer future for all.

The day was first observed in 1999 with an event organized by transgender advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith in celebration of the life of Rita Hester. Gwendolyn, herself a transgender woman, wanted to honor Hester and other transgender individuals who had been lost to violence.

Today, Transgender Day of Remembrance is observed globally, with events held in communities around the world to remember and honor those who have been lost. It is important to recognize the significance of this day and to take action to address the violence and discrimination that transgender individuals face.

Celebrating the “T” in LGBTQ+

One way to celebrate the “T” in LGBTQ+ is by exploring classes on the Peloton platform by searching for TDoV in the app and on the bike or tread. In the archives, you will also find Cody Rigby’s 30-minute Kim Petras ride, as well as Matty Maggiacomo’s 20-min Honey Dijon Music Run as powerful examples of the platform’s commitment to inclusivity, and don’t miss this week’s 30 min Pride 365 Walk with Joslyn Thompson Rule.

Continued Support

Not only Peloton, but the Peloton community celebrated Transgender Awareness Week; Instagram page @thegaysofpeloton helped fans locate the “many classes @onepeloton has on the platform which celebrates the T in LGBTQ+.” Great tip! 

Alex (#pinkieali, he/they), a trans member of the Peloton community, says they think it’s “really great that Peloton does these classes!” And who are the Peloton instructors Alex is sure would be extra trans-friendly? “Tunde, Matty, Andy, Selena, and Kristin.”

Let’s continue to celebrate and support the transgender community, not just during Transgender Awareness Week, but year-round. By recognizing the challenges faced by transgender individuals and working towards a more inclusive society, we can create a brighter future for all.

Tune in to The Clip Out every Friday to hear Tom and Crystal’s take on this and other hot Pelotopics. We’re available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, iHeart, TuneIn. Be sure and follow us so you never miss an episode. You can also find the show online on Facebook.com/TheClipOut. While you’re there, like the page and join the group. Lastly, find us on our YouTube channel, YouTube.com/TheClipOut, where you can watch all of our shows.

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