Washington, D.C. (November 20, 2012) – Today, the Obama Administration hosted leading members of the transgender community at the White House in honor of Transgender Day of Remembrance. Recognized internationally and held annually on November 20^th, the vigils and memorials on Transgender Day of Remembrance raise awareness about those transgender and gender non-conforming members of our families and communities who have died as a result of hate crime violence against them.

 

Transgender youth are an exceptionally vulnerable population, facing hate, fear and discrimination which increase their risk for self-harming behaviors, including suicide attempts. The Trevor Project, which operates crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth nationwide, witnesses and addresses the obstacles transgender youth face daily. Alison Gill, the organization’s Government Affairs Director and a leader in policy development protecting transgender youth, represented Trevor at today’s White House event and issued the following statement.

 

“The Trevor Project is honored to have taken part in an important step in history as the White House honors the memories of transgender victims of hate crime violence on Transgender Day of Remembrance. Members of this especially vulnerable population often lack protections within their communities and under the law. This is especially true of young transgender people, who are more likely now than in any time in history to come out as their true gender early in life. Unfortunately, in many cases, these youth lack effective support systems and resources.

 

“No young person should ever feel unsafe or unable to turn to someone for help, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The Trevor Project is committed to making communities and schools nationwide safer for all youth, and is encouraged by the recognition of Transgender Day of Remembrance by the Obama Administration. We are hopeful that our President will be attentive to the needs of vulnerable transgender young people.”

 

The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning young people under 24. Every day, The Trevor Project saves young lives through its free and confidential lifeline and instant messaging services, in-school workshops, educational materials, online resources and advocacy. Honored by the White House as a Champion of Change, The Trevor Project is a leader and innovator in suicide prevention. Learn more at TheTrevorProject.org.