As we approach the Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR), we reflect on the lives lost to violence and discrimination while celebrating the resilience and power of trans communities around the world. This year, we honor not only the memory of those who are no longer with us but also the incredible work of our grantee partners who fight for a better future. From eliminating violence and advocating for justice to educating, empowering, and building safe spaces, these trans-led organizations are at the forefront of creating lasting change.
To highlight this work, we are releasing a series of stories that showcase the inspiring efforts of ITF grantee partners around the world. Together, we honor the memory of those who came before us by continuing the fight for a future where trans people everywhere can live with dignity, safety, and freedom.
Eliminating Violence Against Trans People
In Ecuador, Centro Psico Trans by Asociación Silueta X stands as a critical example of a grassroots organization working to eliminate violence against trans people. This grantee partner is at the forefront of addressing systemic violence, including the horrors of conversion clinics, and advocating for the protection and mental health of trans communities.
In 2022, the group intervened in two harrowing cases involving detention in conversion clinics. One case centered on Karlina, an elderly trans woman forcibly confined in such a clinic. A video and public statement exposed her plight, prompting the Ombudsman’s Office to coordinate with the Prosecutor’s Office for her release. Similarly, Priscila, a non-binary individual, was detained by their parents in another clinic. Through swift action, including circulating a video and statement on social media, Silueta X drew media and authority attention, leading to Priscila’s immediate release.
In addition to these direct interventions, Asociación Silueta X focuses on broader systemic change. They launched an emotional intelligence manual to support the mental health of trans people and conducted sensitivity training for the national police to address violence against trans women in sex work.
Despite these efforts, the organization faces ongoing challenges, including targeted attacks on their offices—a clear indication of the persecution tied to their work. They continue to file complaints and advocate for safety measures, but the lack of action in hate crime cases underscores the urgent need for systemic change.
On Trans Day of Remembrance (TDOR), we honor the memory of those lost to violence and celebrate the courage of organizations like Asociación Silueta X, whose work is a beacon of hope in the fight for justice, safety, and dignity for trans communities. Their relentless efforts remind us that protecting trans lives is not just about surviving today—it’s about building a future free from fear and violence.
The ITF is proud to support Asociación Silueta X across multiple grant cycles. To learn more about the group visit their pages:
Website
Instagram
Facebook
The ITF has awarded $7,815,110 across 8 grant cycles to 214 grantee partners in 99 countries. Information about grantee partners from previous cycles is available on our website:
2023 Grantee Partners
2022 Grantee Partners
2021 Grantee Partners
2020 Grantee Partners
2019 Grantee Partners
2018 Grantee Partners
2017 Grantee Partners
This post is also available in: Español (Spanish)