‘Remember those whose souls were taken in transphobic violence’: Jewish prayers for transgender day of remembrance

The Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is observed annually in November to commemorate individuals who lost their lives to transphobic violence. This study explores a non-Orthodox Jewish approach to acknowledging TDOR through the analysis of newly crafted liturgical texts intended for this solemn occasion. By recognizing the significance of remembrance within Jewish tradition and its role in fostering communal solidarity and empathy, I contend that this queer Jewish liturgy incorporates trans victims into Jewish values, thus elevating their memory and commemoration. The newly devised prayers exhibit a dynamic interplay between preserving the familiar liturgical patterns and structures of traditional memorial prayers, while also introducing innovative elements and expressions. As such, this creative endeavor serves as a platform to combat transphobia, especially within religious spheres that have historically excluded them. Moreover, it can be accepted as a therapeutic tool to alleviate the pain and sorrow caused by the loss of trans people.