PHILADELPHIA–On this Transgender Day of Remembrance, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health issued a statement honoring the lives of at least 26 transgender and gender non-conforming individuals in Philadelphia who were tragically killed through violent means in 2023.

The statement, signed by Division of HIV Health Director Dr. Kathleen Brady, solemnly reflected on the loss of these individuals and underscored the urgent need for greater awareness, understanding, and action to address the ongoing threats faced by the trans community.

According to Brady, 88% of the victims were people of color, with 54% identified as Black transgender women. This alarming trend highlights the critical importance of fostering safe and supportive environments within interpersonal relationships.

The heartbreaking statistics also revealed that 73% of the victims lost their lives to gun violence, emphasizing the pressing need for comprehensive measures to curb the proliferation of firearms. Equally concerning was the fact that 47% of victims with a known assailant were killed by a romantic/sexual partner, friend, or family member.

Adding to the tragedy was that 50% of the victims were misgendered or deadnamed by authorities or the press, compounding the pain experienced by the trans community and their loved ones. It is imperative that we work collectively to rectify this injustice and ensure that every individual deserves dignity and respect regardless of their gender identity.

As we honor Transgender Day of Remembrance, let us renew our commitment to advocating for the rights, safety, and well-being of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. Together we must strive for a world where everyone can live free from discrimination, violence