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from GLAAD:
Transgender Day of Remembrance is an international annual observance on November 20 that honors the memory of those whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence.
Additionally, during the week of November 13-20, individuals and organizations around the country participate in Transgender Awareness Week to help raise the visibility of transgender and gender non-conforming people and address the issues these communities face.
Observance at Park Square, Pittsfield
Thursday, November 16, 5:30 p.m.
Here in the Berkshires, MC and Featured Speaker Jahaira DeAlto, Reading of Transgender Day of Remembrance city proclamation by City Council President Peter Marchetti, Speech by Joseph Farnes of St. Stephen’s, Reading of US Names followed by Contemplative Silence, Speakers: Tegan Joy Cook, Ray Garnett, Kenneth Mercure, B Bradburd, Open Mic for Attendee Participation, Candlelit Procession (LED candles provided) to Park Square ending with Standing Vigil in Park Square with Reading of International Names followed by a return to the church with Reflection Time with Cookies and Beverages.
St. Stephen’s is handicap accessible, with the elevator available from the Allen Street Entrance. For those who are unable to attend we are making our best effort to livestream and/or record the event. We are also asking that our speakers try to provide written copies of their speeches, poems etc. so they may be shared online for those without access to transportation or who are unable to attend.
Jahaira DeAlto is an advocate and activist whose work began in 1997.
Notably, she has spoken at the Chanelle Pickett murder trial, the Ryan White Conference on HIV/AIDS, and Harvard University. Most recently, she was a guest-lecturer at Columbia University’s School of Social Work. Affirming and uplifting Trans/Intersex People of Color is her passion. She is a college student in Pittsfield, MA, and she can also be found vlogging her heart out at www.youtube.com/JahairasMission
