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TRENTON, NJ — New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy took to social media Tuesday to recognize Transgender Awareness Week, an annual celebration dedicated to increasing visibility and understanding of transgender and non-binary people. The governor’s message highlighted his commitment to fostering inclusion and supporting the transgender community.

“To all trans and non-binary New Jerseyans: you matter, you are loved, and you belong here,” Murphy posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. “We are proud to recognize and support our transgender community. #TransgenderAwarenessWeek.

Transgender Awareness Week takes place every year from November 13-19. She is preparing for Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20, which honors the lives of transgender people lost to acts of violence. The week focuses on raising awareness of the challenges faced by transgender people, including discrimination, violence and barriers to accessing healthcare, while celebrating their resilience and contributions to society.

In addition to awareness week, November is recognized as Transgender Awareness Month in several states and communities across the country, amplifying the voices and stories of transgender and non-binary people.

Governor Murphy has established himself as a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights during his tenure, advancing progressive policies that make New Jersey one of the most inclusive states in the country. Under his administration, New Jersey implemented protections for transgender people in schools, workplaces and health care settings. In 2019, Murphy signed a law requiring public schools to teach LGBTQ+ history in their curricula, making New Jersey the second state in the country to adopt such a mandate.