International TDoV is an annual holiday celebrated around the world. The day is dedicated to celebrating the accomplishments and victories of transgender & gender non-conforming people while raising awareness of the work that is still needed to save trans lives. The holiday was founded in 2009 as a reaction to the lack of LGBT holidays celebrating transgender people’s successes.
This day also represents an opportunity to express support for the trans community, to raise awareness for the discrimination and inequality the community still faces, and to acknowledge the contributions this community and its supporters have made.
“Transgender” itself refers to a person whose gender identity is different from the sex assigned at birth. Transgender individuals may be male or female, or they may identify outside of the binary spectrum as nonbinary, agender, etc.
Rachel Crandall, the executive director and co-founder of Transgender Michigan, created International Transgender Day of Visibility. It has evolved into an international movement that is now celebrated everywhere from North America and Brazil to France and Russia. It’s important to celebrate the lives and identity of the transgender community, to provide visibility for them, and to educate others on the trans community. Transgender individuals face several challenges such as hate violence, a social stigma, and limited access to healthcare.
There are several ways we can all get involved to raise awareness for the trans community and educate others on the issues this community faces.
Learn about, and educate others on, the history of the trans community. Spread awareness about the issues they face.
Stand up for the rights of the trans community and listen to their stories.
Never make assumptions. For instance, be respectful about confidentiality and disclosures. Listen to the name and pronouns someone uses.
Learn more about the transgender community:
