On Transgender Day of Remembrance, we come together to honor the lives of transgender individuals lost to violence and suicide and to reaffirm our dedication to a safer, more inclusive world. My name is Ekleal. As a Lebanese trans person living in Aotearoa, New Zealand, and a representative of Rainbow Path Aotearoa—a peer support and advocacy network for Rainbow asylum seekers and refugees—I feel deeply privileged to share my thoughts on this solemn day.

Today, I want to reflect on the significance of Transgender Day of Remembrance while shining a light on the profound struggles facing transgender individuals in Lebanon, a country dear to my heart.

A Day of Remembrance and Reflection

Transgender Day of Remembrance is not just about remembering—it’s a call to action. It reminds us of the violence and discrimination faced by our community globally and the ongoing fight for justice, equality, and visibility. Each life lost is a stark reminder of the work that remains.

Lebanon: A Struggle Within a Struggle

The challenges for transgender individuals in Lebanon are immense, compounded by the ongoing conflict with Israel, which has ravaged the nation for over a year. The destruction is overwhelming: government departments are shut down, schools are closed, and businesses lie in rubble. My own family—parents, grandparents, an aunt, and my sister—are now crammed into a two-bedroom apartment on one of the last “safe” streets. Even that tenuous safety is fleeting; a neighboring street was bombarded just last week.

For transgender people in Lebanon, the stakes are even higher. Overwhelmed hospitals and scarce resources make accessing critical medical care, such as hormone therapy and mental health services, nearly impossible. Social stigma, harassment, and a lack of legal protections compound these challenges, turning everyday life into a battle for survival.

Stories of Resilience

Amid these hardships, I know of seven transgender individuals living in a single overpriced studio apartment in Lebanon. Their rent is paid by donations from a small group of overseas allies. They risk discrimination every time they step outside to seek food and water. Their courage to persevere in the face of unimaginable odds is a powerful testament to the resilience of our community.

Solidarity Across Borders

Here in Aotearoa, New Zealand, we recently witnessed the Hīkoi mō te Tiriti, advocating for the rights of Māori under the Treaty of Waitangi.

The hīkoi was protesting against a Bill that would undermine te Tiriti o Waitangi. And that Rainbow Path has signed on to this statement by Takatāpui and Rainbow people opposing the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill:

https://www.tengakaukahukura.nz/statement-takatapui-and-rainbow-communities-reject-the-principles-of-the-treaty-of-waitangi-bill

This movement, like Transgender Day of Remembrance, underscores the power of visibility and collective action. Both remind us of the strength found in solidarity and the importance of standing together against injustice.

Moving Forward

As we remember those we have lost, let us also commit to building a future where every transgender person can live freely and authentically. Whether through advocacy, amplifying marginalized voices, or supporting community initiatives, each of us has a role to play in creating a more equitable world.

The resilience of Lebanon’s transgender community, even in the face of unimaginable adversity, inspires us to continue fighting—not just for survival but for dignity, respect, and the right to thrive.

Let us use this day not only to mourn but to act, ensuring that the stories of those we honor drive meaningful change. Together, we can envision and work towards a world where everyone, regardless of gender identity, can live with safety and pride.

Thank you for standing in solidarity and for being part of this journey toward justice and equality.