Graves said the event is also about "resilience and hope for a future where no one has to live in fear because of their identity.”

Vigils and other events are being held to draw attention to transgender people who have lost their lives due to violence in the past year.

Douglas shared these thoughts while speaking to more than 50 people gathered for a candlelight vigil Wednesday evening at the Haynie's Corner Fountain. This year's local observation of Transgender Day of Remembrance was hosted by Trans and Queer HOPE, which formed earlier this year.