The LGBTQ+ community is entering a crucial month of solemn reflection, active advocacy, and cultural celebration. November 2026 marks a pivotal time, dominated by Transgender Awareness Month and critical efforts to protect basic civil rights amidst a rapidly shifting political landscape.

Throughout this month of Thanksgiving, we are remembering and honoring the lives lost to anti-trans violence. We will highlight in our Weekly Updates current issues impacting the Queer and Transgender communities and how you can take action. Here is an overview on the vigils and celebrations:
Transgender Parent Day, 1st: Celebrating the beautiful diversity of queer families and the unique journeys of trans parents.

Transgender Awareness Week, 13th–19th: Seven days focused on amplifying trans voices, sharing lived experiences, and educating the public on gender diversity.

The Rainbow Cafe at the UUAmherst, 14th: Our gathering will honor the BIPOC (Black & Indigenous People of Color) Transgender community who’ve survived and thrived through multiple generations and multiple levels of assaults. The Cafe meets the 2nd Saturday of every month at UUAmherst, 1:00-3:00 pm.

Transgender Day of Remembrance, 20th: Somber, deeply significant vigils honoring the transgender and gender diverse individuals lost to anti-transgender violence will be held throughout WNY. Dates are published in early November. The RC will be holding a vigil at the UUAmherst (details to come).

Locating activities: Local organizations like the Buffalo AKG Art Museum (https://buffaloakg.org/blog/observing
transgender-day-remembrance) and the Pride Center of WNY (https://www.pridecenterwny.org) coordinate activities, educational programming, and solemn candlelit vigils. Check updates via Pride Center of WNY Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/PrideWNY/).