Catherine Connolly shared a letter of support to mark Transgender Day of Remembrance
President Catherine Connolly has been praised for sending a letter to TENI (Transgender Equality Network Ireland) to help mark Transgender Day of Remembrance.
Transgender Day of Remembrance took place on Thursday, November 20th, and President Connolly ensured to support the trans community on this day.
TENI confirmed she sent a letter of support, which they shared at their service on Saturday, November 22nd.
The team wrote, “President Catherine Connolly shared a letter of support with the trans community to mark Transgender Day of Remembrance last week. We shared it at our TDOR service on Saturday evening, where we mourned the lives lost to transphobia and violence worldwide.
“In an era of increasing politicisation and hostility, the President remains a true ally and champion of trans people and all marginalised communities.”
The letter reads:
“I would like to extend my warmest wishes to all in the transgender community, your families and friends, as you gather this evening for this year’s Transgender Day of Remembrance.”
“Today, we pause to honour those whose lives have been cut short by horrific acts of violence or hatred. Their memory calls on each of us to challenge prejudice wherever it arises to build a society rooted in respect and understanding.”
Connolly continued, “This year’s gathering carries particular significance too, as we mark the tenth anniversary of Ireland’s Gender Recognition Act. That milestone stands as a testament to the courage and perseverance of transgender people and their allies who worked tirelessly for recognition, equality, and the simple affirmation of identity.
“Yet it also reminds us that the work of safeguarding dignity and ensuring genuine inclusion remains ongoing.”
During her presidential campaign, Connolly spoke about the trans community.
She previously shared, “We need an inclusive society. We don’t need division; we don’t need language to divide.”
Connolly explained that she worked as a clinical psychologist and understands “the pain and suffering” trans people go through.
“I know the actual pain and suffering that someone goes through when they feel that they’re not in the right gender. I know that’s a painful, painful process, and it’s something that I won’t comment on lightly.
“But I will say that prior to my time, and it was a good act, that the Government passed the Gender Recognition Act, and it’s a law that someone can decide to change their gender and register accordingly, over 18 years of age.”
