Transgender Day of Visibility (TDoV) on March 31st is a moment to celebrate the presence, resilience, and achievements of trans individuals worldwide. Alongside Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR) on November 20th, these dates mark crucial points in the calendar for trans advocacy. But while TDoR mourns lives lost to violence and suicide, TDoV is about embracing and uplifting those who are here, thriving, and making a difference.
Yet, there’s an important question to consider: do all trans people want to be visible?
The Complexity of Visibility
For many trans people, visibility is a double-edged sword. Some wish to live their lives without being constantly identified by their gender identity. They seek the freedom to exist without scrutiny, much like any other person who doesn’t want to be defined solely by one aspect of their identity. The reality is that being visibly trans in today’s world can invite discrimination, harassment, and even violence.
However, for others, visibility is an empowering choice. It is a way to challenge stereotypes, advocate for rights, and educate society. Some, like public speakers and activists, use their platforms to raise awareness and fight for inclusion. But even within these spaces, being trans can sometimes overshadow other aspects of their expertise and contributions.
Why Visibility Matters
Despite the challenges, visibility remains a powerful tool for change. When trans people are seen in all walks of life, leading businesses, excelling in sports, thriving in the arts, it helps to break down misconceptions and humanise trans experiences.
Representation fosters empathy and encourages conversations that lead to policy changes, legal protection, and cultural shifts toward greater acceptance.
For organisations, TDoV is more than just a symbolic day, it’s an opportunity to demonstrate meaningful allyship. But true support goes beyond social media gestures. It involves:
- Creating Inclusive Workplaces: Ensuring policies protect trans employees and foster an environment where they feel valued beyond their gender identity.
- Offering Education and Training: Providing staff with the knowledge and language to support trans colleagues and clients effectively.
- Listening to Trans Voices: Consulting with trans individuals to understand their needs and incorporating their perspectives into organisational decision-making.
Good Practice for Employers and Other Sectors
For Employers:
- Implement clear policies on gender identity and expression, ensuring protections against discrimination.
- Provide gender-neutral facilities and inclusive dress codes.
- Offer trans-inclusive healthcare benefits.
- Ensure managers and HR professionals receive training on supporting trans employees.
- Recognise and celebrate trans-inclusive days beyond just TDoV.
For Education Institutions:
- Create a safe and affirming environment by using correct names and pronouns.
- Train teachers and staff on trans inclusion and anti-bullying strategies.
- Ensure trans students have access to appropriate facilities and support services. Embed LGBTQ+ inclusion within the curriculum to normalise diverse identities.
For Healthcare Providers:
- Offer trans-competent care, ensuring staff are educated on the specific healthcare needs of trans patients.
- Respect patients’ gender identities and ensure inclusive language is used in patient interactions.
- Reduce barriers to accessing gender-affirming care.
For Public Services and Community Organisations:
- Ensure all staff receive training on trans inclusion and respectful interactions.
- Adopt clear policies to prevent discrimination in service delivery.
- Consult with trans-led organisations when developing policies and programmes.
Action Beyond Visibility
If you are looking to mark TDoV in a way that has real impact, consider going beyond performative support. Invite speakers, run workshops, and engage in policy reviews that prioritise inclusion not just on one day, but every day. Visibility is not just about being seen, it’s about being respected, valued, and given equal opportunities.
By acting, we move beyond just recognising trans people; we create a world where they can thrive, safely and authentically.