We are aware that since the National Trans Memorial was removed from Sackville Gardens following extensive fire damage, there has been a project to replace it with something more enduring and reflective of the trans+ community’s rich diversity.
The new monument, ‘Passing on Light’, not only symbolises resistance, resilience, and reflection, it also conveys a universal message of lifting up the members of your community who need it most. Bek Ziola, the architect who behind the design wrote;
“Today in the UK, across social media and the news we often witness reports where the narrative for living as transgender is painful and our existence is debated. I reject this narrative. I celebrate my trans siblings and I thank them for inspiring me to live authentically even on the days where social media, new reports and aspects of society tell me I should not. This is why the narrative of trans identity should focus on trans joy and passing of light to one another.”
Planning permission for the new monument was applied for in March of this year. The council has requested one more public consultation on the location of the monument, as it’ll be installed approximately 5 metres further into the park from the site of the original National Trans Memorial. This is to ensure greater accessibility and visibility, away from a back corner which is well-known for antisocial behaviour.
The consultation is for local residents, businesses, and anyone who visits Sackville Gardens regularly.
We would be extremely grateful, if you have the time, to respond at the link below, and show your support for a project which has already had international media interest, and will be an important attraction for visiting LGBTQIA+ tourists: