While we were putting this issue together, a theme started to surface. On the cover, we have the Trans Day of Remembrance, which includes many calls for a unified community to help protect and expand rights for trans people. 

We’re also writing about a new ethical clothing line, changes in language to become more inclusive and a bike-building marathon that will create rides for many kids this holiday season.

The common thread in all of these pieces is community – people coming together for a larger cause. Whether it’s to help those in their immediate circle, or those halfway across the world, many Winnipeggers are doing their part to make a difference in this world.

Caring isn’t always easy or pretty. It may involve getting covered in grease (for a bike marathon) or bearing witness to unfathomable tragedy (at a vigil for murdered trans people). The call to make a difference often comes with some discomfort or personal sacrifice, to rethink our place in the world and relationship to others. 

As rhetorics of hate become more and more visible – and more and more normalized – in the media and in the international political sphere, these small stories of caring are vital reminders of the change we can make. 

When we recognize our connection to others, even just within our city, then we’re moved to take on more responsibility for each other. When we care about those around us, we take the label of “ally” off the page and out into the world.

Let’s make caring cool again, one act, one step, one story at a time.

Published in Volume 71, Number 12 of The Uniter (November 24, 2016)