New York’s Landmarks Shine in Honour of Transgender Day of Remembrance, A Powerful Message for Equality and Justice

Published on November 21, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

New York’s landmarks shine in honour of Transgender Day of Remembrance, sending a powerful message for equality and justice. This monumental act of remembrance highlights New York’s commitment to the transgender community and its unwavering stance against violence and discrimination. As the city’s most iconic landmarks illuminate with pink, white, and light blue, it serves as a visual reminder of the importance of transgender rights.

New York’s landmarks shining in honour of Transgender Day of Remembrance will continue to spark important conversations about equality and justice, urging action for a safer, more inclusive future. Read on for more details on this powerful display.

New York Lights Up in Honour of Transgender Day of Remembrance

In a momentous display of solidarity and remembrance, Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has announced that 16 of the state’s most iconic landmarks will be illuminated in the vibrant colours of pink, white, and light blue on November 20, 2025, to mark Transgender Day of Remembrance. This symbolic gesture is part of New York’s ongoing commitment to honouring the transgender community and its resilience in the face of anti-transgender violence. Alongside the breathtaking light display, Governor Hochul also raised the Transgender flag at the State Capitol, sending a powerful message of inclusivity and equal rights for all.

16 Landmarks Glow with Powerful Colours

As the sun sets on November 20, 2025, New Yorkers and visitors will witness the shining pink, white, and light blue lights illuminating 16 state landmarks. These landmarks, including the Empire State Plaza, Niagara Falls, the Kosciuszko Bridge, and Grand Central Terminal, will serve as a visual testament to the transgender lives lost to violence and hate. The 16 landmarks that will glow in these poignant colours are not only New York’s most recognisable symbols, but they also embody the city’s commitment to protecting and celebrating the transgender, gender non-conforming, and nonbinary communities.

Governor Hochul’s Proclamation: Transgender Awareness Month

Earlier this month, Governor Hochul took the opportunity to issue a formal proclamation declaring November as Transgender Awareness Month. This marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to raise awareness, promote understanding, and fight against the systemic violence faced by transgender people. With the rising visibility of transgender, gender non-conforming, and nonbinary individuals, this proclamation represents New York’s steadfast dedication to creating a safer, more inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of gender identity.

Paying Tribute to Transgender Lives Lost

Transgender Day of Remembrance is a day to honour those transgender individuals whose lives were tragically taken due to anti-transgender violence. Governor Hochul poignantly remarked, “Today we honour the memory of transgender New Yorkers whose lives were tragically lost in acts of anti-transgender violence.” By illuminating New York’s landmarks, the state is making it clear that it stands united in its fight against hate and violence, showing the world that gender-based violence has no place in New York or anywhere else. The illuminating colours represent not only remembrance but also a firm stance for justice and equality.

Governor Hochul’s Historic Commitment to Transgender Rights

Governor Hochul has been a vocal advocate for transgender rights throughout her tenure. In addition to the Transgender Day of Remembrance initiative, she made a landmark move earlier this year by expanding the Lorena Borjas Transgender and Non-Binary Wellness and Equity Fund. With the fund now at over $15 million, it is the largest of its kind in the United States. The fund is dedicated to supporting transgender and nonbinary individuals in New York, helping to provide them with critical services such as healthcare, housing, and educational opportunities. Governor Hochul has proven that her commitment to the transgender community is not just symbolic but translates into real-world action.

A Statewide Commitment to Equality

Governor Hochul’s advocacy is part of a larger effort to ensure that New York remains a leader in the fight for equality and justice for transgender individuals. Earlier this year, the state made another significant move by awarding $960,000 in workforce development grants to help transgender, gender non-conforming, and nonbinary New Yorkers enter the workforce. This grant, funded through the New York State Department of Labor, is designed to support training programs, job placement initiatives, and career development for these communities, allowing them to thrive and succeed.

Strengthening Protection for Transgender New Yorkers

The state of New York is not just taking symbolic actions, but is also strengthening the legal protections afforded to transgender individuals. Denise M. Miranda, Esq., the Commissioner of the New York State Division of Human Rights, stressed the importance of the work being done to protect transgender people across the state. Thanks to the historic investments made by Governor Hochul this year, the Division of Human Rights has modernised its operations, making it more equipped than ever to protect and serve transgender individuals. The division’s efforts are central to ensuring that transgender New Yorkers are not only recognised but also safeguarded against discrimination and injustice.

The Power of Symbolism: Lighting the Landmarks

The 16 landmarks that will shine with pink, white, and light blue lights are more than just beautiful spectacles. They are symbols of New York’s commitment to honouring the transgender community, showing that the state is not just a place of great diversity but also a safe haven for individuals of all gender identities. Landmarks such as the 1WTC, Empire State Plaza, and the Kosciuszko Bridge will shine brightly to remind everyone that the transgender community matters and that violence and hate have no place in New York.

Community Pride and Solidarity

The lighting of these landmarks is not just a government initiative, but a demonstration of community pride and solidarity. As New York leads the charge in raising awareness, the community is invited to take part in these events. The participation of local organisations, advocacy groups, and community leaders ensures that the message is not only heard by government officials but also echoed by the people who make up the city. This collective action reinforces the idea that inclusion and acceptance are key values that should be upheld by all.

Looking Ahead: A Future of Inclusion and Protection

While November 20, 2025, marks an important day of remembrance, it is also a day that looks forward to a future where transgender individuals can live free from fear and violence. Governor Hochul’s initiatives, combined with the powerful visual display of New York’s illuminated landmarks, send a message of hope and action. It is a message that New York will continue to lead the way in championing transgender rights, ensuring that future generations will live in a world of equality, justice, and understanding.