Observing Transgender Day of Remembrance

Honoring the memory of those who lost their lives to transphobic violence, Transgender Day of Remembrance, observed on Sunday, November 20, 2022, is a time to uplift the voices of transgender (or trans) people and raise awareness of the issues and misconceptions that affect their livelihoods.  

Understanding the Trans Experience Through Sex, Gender, and Gender Identity  

Sex, gender, and gender identity are all related, but are different parts of who you are. For many people sex, gender, and gender identity line up. But not for everyone.  

• Sex is a label that’s usually first given by a doctor based upon the genes, hormones, and body parts (like genitals) you’re born with. 
• Gender is how society thinks we should look, think, and act as girls and women and boys and men. 
• Gender identity is how you feel inside and how you show your gender through clothing, behavior, and personal appearance. 

Many trans and non-binary people experience gender dysphoria or distress, depression, and extreme anxiety related to the mismatch between their gender identity and important aspects of their body. This can include discomfort with their genitals, voice, chest, or how they’re treated socially, like when people use their wrong pronouns. 

Gender-Affirming Care Saves Lives. Period.  

There are many healthcare options for trans and nonbinary people, like hormone therapy, which is known as gender-affirming care. Receiving gender-affirming care can be lifesaving, validating one’s gender identity and improving their quality of life. It can produce gender euphoria including joy, comfort, and increased well-being. 

Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio (PPGOH) is proud to provide gender-affirming care to patients 18 years old and up, in a safe, judgment-free, and compassionate environment. Recently, PPGOH launched the online patient portal, MyChart, which easily allows patients to select their pronouns and gender-affirming name, and it provides a welcoming message for all gender-affirming care patients. We’re committed to helping patients access the care they need as smoothly and easily as possible. The importance of this work is underscored by its surge in demand. This year, we’ve seen a 544% increase in patients seeking gender-affirming care since its introduction in 2021.  

“Planned Parenthood has literally saved my life. I have nothing but good things to say. As a transgender woman, it is so hard to get adequate care, yet they were so affirming and helpful.”
-Gender-Affirming Care Patient, Kent Health Center

The Battle for Bodily Autonomy Continues 

Every community has trans and nonbinary people. That is a fact. And with PPGOH’s services, they can access the care they need and deserve. Nevertheless, we continue to face obstacles that limit the ability for trans people to thrive and get the health care they need.  

Currently, in Ohio, HB454, an anti-trans bill that would limit gender-affirming care, is moving through the state legislature. If enacted, this bill would limit access to gender-affirming care for Ohio's youth and force teachers and school staff to out trans youth to their parents. Our advocates are working hard to block this bill from moving forward during the final month of the legislative session, but we must work in community to create meaningful change.  

Aligned with our battle for bodily autonomy for all, cisgender people need to support trans and nonbinary people and work in partnership to end trans harassment and discrimination. Due to erasure, disapproval, and even violence, many do not feel comfortable expressing their true selves or cannot get the care and dignity they need and deserve. 

It is up to us all to create safe, inclusive communities that are welcoming to trans, nonbinary, and gender-nonconforming people where everyone can live free of violence and discrimination. 

Want to learn more about ways to best support a trans or nonbinary person in your life? Learn more from Planned Parenthood Federation of America.