by Tamiko Teshima, M.A, CCC-SLP
Practice Owner & Speech-Language Pathologist
Duncan Lake Speech Therapy, LLC
Each year on November 20th, we observe Transgender Day of Remembrance. This day is dedicated to honoring the lives lost to transphobic violence and discrimination. The Human Rights Campaign reports that, “at least 27 transgender and gender-expansive people …were tragically and inhumanely taken through violent means, including gun and intimate partner violence, in 2024.” While solemn, this day also serves as a reminder of the work yet to be done to ensure that trans folks can live their lives authentically . One area in this fight for trans rights is access to gender-affirming care, a life-saving form of healthcare.
For many trans individuals, achieving congruence between their gender identity and outward expression is crucial. As we have talked about in many blog posts, voice plays a powerful role in identity. Voice modification can be a transformative step. Gender-affirming voice modification (a service offered here at DLST!) involves helping individuals align their voice with their gender, whether by exploring pitch, resonance, articulation, or even non-verbal communication patterns. Our goal is to create a voice that feels true to the client and helps them navigate daily interactions with confidence and safety.
Research and countless personal stories reveal the significance of gender-affirming care in improving mental health. Accessing support and medical care that honors and respects identity can be the difference between survival and struggle. Studies show that access to gender-affirming care, like voice modification, can lower rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation among the transgender community. This care empowers trans folks to live authentically, reducing the internal and external conflicts that arise when their identity is stifled.
Transgender Day of Remembrance is a call to all of us to advocate for a world where everyone, regardless of gender identity, can find acceptance and care. At Duncan Lake Speech Therapy, we’re committed to supporting our clients on their journeys toward self-expression and self-affirmation through gender-affirming services like voice modification. We believe that all individuals deserve access to care that recognizes and respects their unique needs and identities.
