The event is designed to recall and memorialize those who are killed on account of their gender identity and/or gender expression. The commemoration began on the third-floor rooftop of the Center, as mourners gathered around 28 empty chairs on which were placed lighted red candles; these symbolized the 28 who have been killed since the 2007 Night of Remembrance. (Illinois Gender Advocates organized the vigil.) Among those who spoke were Lois Bates, Howard Brown Health Center’s transgender-health coordinator; and Rick Garcia, political director of Equality Illinois. Following the vigil was a “Night of Fallen Stars,” an evening meant to celebrate the transgendered community. Photo and text by Yasmin Nair
The Center on Halsted hosted this year’s Transgender Night of Remembrance Nov. 16.