The International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDoV)

The International Trans Day of Visibility (TDoV) is an annual observance celebrated on 31 March worldwide.

The text international transgender day of visibility and the hand of a young Caucasian holding a transgender symbol.Photo byDreamstime #271324773

The day aims to increase the visibility and awareness of transgender and non-binary people while promoting their rights and well-being. It could be essential to reduce the discrimination and bullying transgender people face daily. This article will examine TDoV, its history, and how you can participate in this global celebration.

What is TDoV & Why is it essential?

TDoV is an annual celebration of transgender and non-binary people. It is an opportunity to recognize and acknowledge their contributions to society and raise awareness about their challenges.

The day was first observed in 2009 by Rachel Crandall, a transgender activist from Michigan who wanted to create a positive and celebratory event for the transgender community. Since then, TDoV has grown in popularity and is now celebrated worldwide.

One of the primary goals of TDoV is to promote transgender and non-binary visibility. Visibility is crucial because it helps to normalize transgender and non-binary identities and reduce the stigma associated with them. When transgender and non-binary people are visible, it sends a powerful message that they are valued members of society and deserve the same rights and protections as everyone else.

How can you help?

There are many ways to get involved in TDoV and support the transgender and non-binary community.

Here are a few suggestions:

1. Educate yourself—Take the time to learn about the experiences of transgender and non-binary people. Read books, articles, and blogs written by transgender and non-binary authors. Watch movies and documentaries that feature transgender and non-binary people.

2. Attend TDoV events—Many organizations host events on TDoV to celebrate and support the transgender and non-binary community. Attend an event in your area or consider organizing one yourself.

3. Use social media—Use your social media accounts to share positive messages about transgender and non-binary people. Use the hashtag #TDoV to show your support and raise awareness.

4. Donate to organizations—Consider donating to a local organization that supports transgender and non-binary people. These organizations provide critical services, such as counseling, advocacy, and legal support.

What can you do?

Here are some practical ways to support the transgender and non-binary people in your life:

1. Be an ally—Be supportive and respectful of transgender and non-binary people. Listen to their experiences and validate their feelings.

2. Use their chosen name and pronouns—It's essential to use the name and pronouns that a transgender or non-binary person prefers. This is a simple but powerful way to show your support and respect.

3. Speak up—If you hear someone making negative comments or using derogatory language towards transgender and non-binary people, speak up. Let them know that their behavior is not acceptable.

If you're looking for organizations to donate to, here are a few suggestions:

• The Trevor Project—Provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ youth.
• Trans Lifeline—Offers peer support and crisis hotline services for transgender people.
• National Center for Transgender Equality—Advocates for policies that promote transgender equality and justice.
• The LGBT Foundation— LGBT Foundation supports the needs of a diverse range of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans.

In conclusion, TDoV is an important observance that helps to promote transgender and non-binary visibility and reduce discrimination and bullying. There are many ways to get involved, from attending events to donating to organizations that support the community.

It's essential to show your support and be an ally to the transgender and non-binary people in your life. Let's all work together to create a more inclusive and accepting world for everyone.

#IAmEnough

References:

1. Transgender Day of Visibility. Human Rights Campaign. https://www.hrc.org/resources/transgender-day-of-visibility.

2. What is Transgender Day of Visibility? GLAAD. https://www.glaad.org/tdov

3. Transgender Day of Visibility. National Center for Transgender Equality. https://transequality.org/issues/resources/transgender-day-of-visibility

4. Transgender Day of Visibility: March 31. The Trevor Project. https://www.thetrevorproject.org/trvr_support_center/transgender-day-of-visibility/

5. Trans Lifeline. Trans Lifeline. https://translifeline.org/

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About the author

Stephen Dalton is a native of Old Town, ME, and a retired US Army First Sergeant with a degree in journalism from the University of Maryland. He is a Certified US English Chicago Manual of Style Editor. Top Writer in Travel, Food, Fiction, Transportation, VR, NFL, Design, Creativity, Short Story, and a NewsBreak Community Voice Pro.