International Transgender Day of Visibility--March 31
Every year on March 31, people around the world celebrate International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV). This day is dedicated to recognizing and supporting transgender people while raising awareness about the challenges they face. How did this day start? And why is it so important?
Rachel Crandall Crocker, LMSW, from her Facebook page.
Transgender Day of Visibility Origins
Transgender activist Rachel Crandall-Crocker created Transgender Day of Visibility in 2009 to celebrate the lives and achievements of transgender people. Until then, most events focused on remembering transgender people who had been murdered, such as the annual Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) held each November.
Raising awareness about the violence, discrimination, misunderstanding, and lack of representation transgender folx face every day is important–and so is honoring transgender life experiences. That helps change the narrative–and that is what TDOV is all about!
TDOV is now a worldwide event where people gather to support, uplift, and recognize transgender folx, their resilience, and their accomplishments.
Why TDOV is Important
Celebrating transgender people: It’s a day to honor their courage, achievements, and contributions to society.
Raising awareness: Many people don’t fully understand what it means to be transgender. TDOV provides an opportunity to educate others.
Fighting stigma and discrimination: By increasing visibility, we help reduce ignorance and encourage acceptance.
Inspiring future generations: Seeing transgender people thrive can give hope and confidence to young transgender individuals.
How Can People Participate?
There are many ways to celebrate and support transgender people on this day:
Share stories and experiences: Transgender individuals can use social media to share their journeys, helping others understand their lives. And it is not their job to educate cisgender folx.
Educate yourself and others: Read books, watch documentaries, attend events, and believe transgender people when they talk about transgender issues.
Support transgender organizations: Donate to or volunteer with groups that help transgender people access healthcare, legal support, and safe spaces.
Be an ally: Model affirmation by opposing discrimination, using correct pronouns, and respecting transgender identities.
Volunteer at and/or donate to trans-led and -affirming nonprofits.
Looking Toward the Future
Transgender Day of Visibility is a celebration. It also reminds us that there is still work to be done. Transgender people continue to face challenges in healthcare, employment, housing, and daily life. As March 31st approaches, take a moment to celebrate, learn, and take action. By increasing visibility and understanding, we can build a future where transgender people are seen, heard, and respected every day of the year.
