Transgender Day of Remembrance important amid rising incidents of violence: group
HALIFAX – Marking Transgender Day of Remembrance is especially important this year amid rising incidents of violence and hatred, the founder of a Nova Scotia-based advocacy group said Monday.
Veronica Merryfield, founder of the Cape Breton Transgender Network, made the comments as she participated in a ceremony to raise the trans flag outside the provincial legislature in commemoration of those killed in Canada and around the world in acts of anti-trans violence.
“Today is a very poignant moment to remember those who have lost their lives. In the nearly 30 years since I’ve transitioned, I’ve lost so many friends, and this year is no different,” Merryfield said, holding back tears ahead of the flag raising.
She said she has noticed a significant rise in anti-trans hate in Nova Scotia over the past year, much of it occurring in schools.