On Wednesday Nov. 20, Equality Springfield will host an annual event called the Transgender Day of Remembrance. HubSpringfield.com spoke with Kyle Scott, Vice President of Equality Springfield, about this year's event, and how it has taken on greater social significance within the context of national politics. As you will see in the interview below, Scott views Transgender rights and visibility not as a partisan issue but one of humanity and humane treatment and inclusion within our communities.
HubSpringfield.com: Will you please tell us about the Transgender Day of Remembrance?
Kyle Scott: It's a national thing. Many communities across the U.S. host a Transgender Day of Remembrance. It's really to honor those that we have lost to Trans and Gender-nonconforming violence. In light of everything that's happened, and the heightened sense of scrutiny on the trans community over the past year, we wanted our event to be a vigil of remembrance and a source of inspiration.
HubSpringfield.com: What can we expect from the Equality Springfield event this year?
Kyle Scott: We actually have some great local and statewide leaders who are going to speak. We have individuals from Trans Allies of Ohio and two of our own Equality Springfield members. We also have two musical performances. One is the World House Choir out of Yellow Springs. And then we have the recording artist, Matthew Morgan, out of Columbus. He wrote an original song specifically for the occasion.
HubSpringfield.com: Could you speak to where we are as a nation when it comes to transgender related issues and where you see room for improvement?
Kyle Scott: I think there's greater understanding of transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals. I think where we're currently struggling and where we really want the greater community to be more supportive, is around empowering parents and empowering trans-youth.
HubSpringfield.com: How do you see issues related to the wellbeing of transgender individuals affecting and being affected by forces within national politics?
Kyle Scott: I think it galvanized people on both the left and the right. I think, unfortunately, it's been used as a wedge issue, when really, it's just about humanity.
HubSpringfield.com: Is the event on Nov. 20 a fundraiser? Does one need to purchase, or register for tickets?
Kyle Scott: Not a fundraiser. It's about raising awareness. We expect about 50-65 in attendance. No tickets needed. Just show up at the door. We're welcoming everyone who is welcoming and respectful to us.
HubSpringfield.com How does this event fit into the overall mission and direction of Equality Springfield?
Kyle Scott: Our overarching goal is to build a more inclusive and tolerant community in the Greater Springfield area. We also want to act as a conduit which connects people to resources, and to others in the community, to make friendships and build bonds. I'm really looking forward to the event. I think it's going to be really meaningful. And like I said, it's going to be a place for people to grieve and come together, but it will also be very uplifting.
Equality Springfield's Transgender Day of Remembrance
Wednesday, Nov. 20. 6 p.m. Springfield First Baptist Church, 638 So. Fountain Ave., Springfield, Oh 45506
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