Transgender Day of Remembrance, observed annually on November 20, honors the memory of Rita Hester, a trans woman murdered in Massachusetts in 1999.

This year, at least 36 transgender individuals were reported murdered due to violence, according to the Human Rights Campaign, although the actual number may be higher due to underreporting and misidentification.

The vigil held in Hyannis featured 64 images of transgender individuals who died due to violence and suicide, with names read aloud and bells rung in their honor.

Data reveals that two-thirds of the reported fatalities involved firearms, and nearly one-third of the known killers were intimate partners, friends, or family members.

This year's observance takes place in a politically charged environment following the recent elections, which saw Republican victories that raised concerns about the future of transgender rights.

Burke highlighted the alarming suicide rates among trans youth, noting that having just one supportive adult can reduce these rates by 75%.

Burke founded the Cape & Islands Trans Resource Fund in 2021 to provide essential support and resources for the transgender community.

Ann Burke emphasized the emotional impact of the vigil and the necessity for community support to prevent future violence against transgender individuals.

According to the Williams Institute, approximately 1.6 million people in the U.S. aged 13 and older identify as transgender, facing violence rates over four times higher than their cisgender counterparts.

Half of U.S. states have prohibited gender-affirming medical care for transgender youth, with ongoing legal challenges, including a Supreme Court case regarding Tennessee's ban.

Advocates express concern that recent political rhetoric and legislation are diminishing safe spaces for transgender individuals, potentially leading to increased violence against them.

Following the recent presidential election, many in the community, including advocates like Glick and Beans, expressed feelings of anxiety and fear regarding the treatment of transgender individuals.