As many around the world are becoming aware of inclusiveness in our society, there is more awareness to be spread, especially when it comes to the importance of the International Transgender Day of Visibility.
This day in particular not only brings awareness to those who identify as transgender but is also an event that allows the world to hear the stories of transgender people who have dealt with significant challenges. These stories include instances of discrimination and violence against trans people.
If you or someone you know may be transgender, the International Transgender Day of Visibility is an important and significant day. While some may not be supportive of those in the LGBTQIA community, fortunately, many are.
Let’s discuss the International Transgender Day of Visibility further.
March 31 is International Transgender Day of Visibility
The first-ever International Transgender Day of Visibility was held in 2009. Since then, the event has taken place every March 31. This is a day of recognition of the achievements of the transgender community, as well as one of the annual events that bring awareness regarding the struggles transgender people face daily.
It is also a time to celebrate those who identify as transgender or non-binary. Transgender folks and gender non-binary people should be included in all of society. Even today, members of the transgender community still face discrimination and stigma.
Thse individuals carry the burden of discrimination and stigma in multiple facets of life, from employment and education to housing opportunities and so on. International Transgender Day of Visibility is a day where those in the LGBTQ community and cisgender allies encourage our government officials to pass legislation that will raise awareness around discrimination against trans people and protect the transgender community.
It’s also a time to remember those who lost their lives due to violence because of their identity as transgender individuals. Many of those victims are transgender women of color. Advocates from around the world are continuing to become the voice for those who continue to fight for equality for transgender and non-binary individuals.
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Transgender people continue to face harassment and violence for their identity. It is important that society mobilizes to help these individuals lives without fear of discrimination and violence.
Unfortunately, the epidemic of violence against transgender people continues. We must do our part to make sure they are protected accordingly. It is also important that every transgender activist do their part to stop anti-transgender bills that are being discussed by state government officials.
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A Proclamation on International Transgender Day of Visibility, 2021
On March 31, 2021, President Joe Biden officially declared March 31 as International Transgender Day of Visibility. The proclamation stated that it celebrates the achievements and resiliency of transgender individuals. It also stated the challenges that transgender individuals still face including harassment, discrimination, and even deadly violence.
The Biden-Harris Administration is advocating to stamp out discrimination and provide freedom and equality for all. It remains to be seen what kind of work will be done. Until then, it is important that we continue to speak in favor and advocate for the trans community. Trans people must and should be a part of society as citizens and nothing less than that. They need to be treated with dignity and respect.
Wear and Show Your Pride of the Trans* Community
Whether you are a member of the transgender community or an ally, it is important everyday but especially on March 31 that you show your pride and support of the trans* community. Allies of the trans community must call their local legislation and advocate for the removal of anti-trans bills. They must also be vocal about their support of the trans community anywhere from their social circle to their work to their families. The trans* community needs the cisgender communities support and advocacy.
HRC Honors International Transgender Day of Visibility
Every year, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) honors the transgender community on the International Transgender Day of Visibility. The organization hosts an annual summit aimed at providing justice and advocacy for those in the transgender community.
Their goal is to ensure that no anti-transgender bills currently discussed across several states get passed. The HRC believes that these bills are not at the request of their constituents but rather used for political purposes to further an agenda of hate.
They are often created by government officials on the far right. Many people – including many supporters of former President Donald Trump – have voiced their disapproval for such legislation to be passed.
In about four states, such bills have been sent to their respective Governors. The fate of these bills is yet to be known. For the time being, many hope the executives make the right choice and reject the policies that would lead to further discrimination and pave the way for more invisibility in the transgender community.
Final Thoughts
International Transgender Day of Visibility is a day where we celebrate the transgender community. It is also a time when we remember those who have lost their lives in senseless tragedies because of their identity. Take a moment to listen to the stories of the people in the transgender community.
You can do that every day of the year! You too can do your part to make sure transgender individuals live a life where they can be free of fear and enjoy the same rights as everyone else.
