Transgender community plans event for March 31 Day of Visibility
The International Transgender Day of Visibility will be observed Sunday, March 31, in Delaware to celebrate and recognize transgender lives while raising awareness about current issues still faced by the community.
In 2009, Rachel Crandall of Michigan created this event to highlight trans triumphs and struggles, and to focus on empowerment and reflection outside of Transgender Day of Remembrance in November. According to early insights from the 2022 US Trans Survey, the vast majority of the more than 92,000 participants surveyed stated that they were more satisfied in their lives having transitioned, while nearly half stated that they had considered moving states because of anti-LGBTQ laws proposed or passed.
In 2023, a record-breaking 508 anti-trans bills were introduced in the United States, with more than 400 bills being considered in 2024 so far. For many transgender people across the nation, difficult conversations are being had about the future. Nevertheless, there are many individuals and organizations fighting for the preservation and expansion of trans rights. Continued action, advocacy and allyship are imperative to protecting trans lives globally and locally.
Visibility is an important part of the pursuit of human rights, but must be combined with protection as well. “In many ways, trans people are more visible now than ever,” said Sussex Pride volunteer Soren Ruppelius. “We are facing a lot of adversity in many parts of this country, and my hope is that awareness and familiarity can be one part of what leads people to allyship. That is why TDOV is important.”
While transgender Delaware residents are able to enjoy a number of protections, there is still work to be done to ensure that all feel safe, included and seen for who they are. Recognizing daily the joys of trans life, as well as the struggles still being faced, is imperative for allies and the community alike. Sussex Pride board member Jamie McKenna said, “I am honored to be a part of our Trans Day of Visibility event. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet with members of our community and hear from them how Sussex Pride can better serve the needs of trans people in Delaware.”
Sussex Pride’s TDOV event will be held at 5 p.m., Sunday, March 31, at Lewes Public Library. It will include a panel and group discussion, as well as activities for youth. The community will discuss needs and concerns, as well as answering questions. McKenna and Ruppelius will serve as event co-chairs alongside committee members Vienna Cavazos and Lamar Angel Kellam. For details, go to sussexpride.org/events/tdor.
