Transgender Day of Visibility
March 31 is International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV)! Across the globe, people celebrate today by uplifting the joy and resilience of trans and non-binary people everywhere.
International TDOV was created in 2009 by trans advocate Rachel Crandall, who started TDOV in response to overwhelming majority of information about the transgender community being focused on violence. Instead of only remembering those who were lost, Crandall wanted to create a day of visibility that would focus on all of the good things in the trans community.
TDOV is a day where we can celebrate the lives of transgender and non-binary people, empowering them to live authentically, while still acknowledging that due to discrimination, not every trans person can or wants to be visible. This day is a powerful reminder that transgender and non-binary people are worthy of visibility and respect and by celebrating our diversity, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
And although we are commemorating the joy of transgender and non-binary people, we also have to acknowledge the incredible resilience of this community. At this current moment in the U.S., we are facing a rise of anti-trans legislation which comprises over hundreds of anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ+ bills, including healthcare bans denying minors access to gender affirming care, bathroom bills denying people access to public restrooms, “drag bans” that restrict access for gender non-conforming folks, book bans in schools, and more.
In the face of all of this, days like International Transgender Day of Visibility are more important than ever and being a supportive ally is essential. Here at S:US, we are committed to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and accessibility throughout the entire agency. It is our goal, as a social justice driven organization, for everyone to feel that they belong, that they are supported, and that they are respected. We have been taking steps to uplift and support our trans, gender non-confirming, and non-binary employees and people served. To date, we have applied for LGBTQ+ affirming program endorsement for our clinics, we will join the NYC Pride March on June 25, we created an S:US Pride Committee, we will roll out an employee gender transition guide, and more.
Please check out resources listed below to help you, you loved ones or your community.
Resources:
The Trans Lifeline: Call their hotline at (877) 565-8860. The Trans Lifeline is run by trans people for trans people and does not engage in non-consensual active rescue, meaning they will not call law enforcement without your consent.
Call BlackLine is a BIPOC LGBTQ+ support line, run by BIPOC folks for BIPOC folks. This resource does not involve law enforcement or state agencies. You can call (800) 604-5841 to chat with a peer.
Adults (folks 18+) can text THRIVE Lifeline which is trans-led and operated. Text “THRIVE” to (313) 662-8209 to begin your conversation. THRIVE Lifeline does not call emergency services for people that are at risk of harming themselves without their consent.