Internationally, March 31st is Transgender Day of Visibility, a day on which we recognize and celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of transgender and non-binary people, while also raising awareness about the discrimination and challenges they continue to face.
Today, please stand with us by highlighting the diversity and resilience of the transgender community and renewing your commitment to seeing transgender persons as the full-fledged members of society that they truly are.
Transgender Day of Visibility began in 2009, founded by activist Rachel Crandall-Crocker, as a day to celebrate the lives, strength, and contributions of transgender people. It is a day for recognition, joy, and solidarity. And in today’s political climate, that visibility is more vital than ever.
Right now, groups that are driven by bigotry and hate are trying to erase transgender people from public life. They’re scapegoating and attempting to dehumanize transgender people to advance their repressive agenda.
But transgender people will not be erased. And we will never stop standing with the transgender community.
Here are some resources on how you can take action today:
Speak up: Challenge anti-trans rhetoric wherever you hear it – online, in the news, or in your own community. Towards Trans Liberation: A Toolkit for Rights Defenders
Lift up organizations that support the transgender community: Learn about the resources your local LGBTQ+ community center offers and share what you know with others. LGBTQ+ Centers and Resources in Oregon
Support affirming candidates: Vote for leaders who protect trans rights and support their campaigns. Sign up to volunteer with the Stonewall Caucus
Show up: Attend local rallies, town halls, or school board meetings to voice support for transgender inclusion. See upcoming events and resources on Basic Rights Oregon.
Learn and share: Educate yourself and others. Share resources, stories, and truths that counter disinformation. The Anti-Trans Disinformation Handbook
Protect trans youth: Speak out against bans on gender-affirming care and support inclusive school policies. Gender-affirming Care In Oregon
Your words and actions make a difference. Help us ensure that all of our words and actions make our world a safer, more secure and more inviting place in which to live. There is nothing greater you can do than to be a haven of acceptance, respect, and love.
In Love, Pride and Solidarity,
Bret Cecil (he/his)
Chair, DPO Stonewall Caucus
