Alyssa Jackson ~ Assistant Editor
A Photo of a Trans Flag from https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Transgender_Pride_flag.svg.
International Transgender Visibility Day is an annual day dedicated to recognize and celebrate transgender people and raises awareness of the discrimination faced by transgender people.
Sophomore Willow Martin states, “I think it would be nice for people to be made aware of things that trans people have contributed to society. Or help donate to LGBTQ+ charities.”
This day of celebration was established on March 31 in 2009. Created by Rachel Crandall-Crocker. She wanted trans people to have a moment of solidarity.
“I’d been wanting there to be a special day for us for a long time,” Crandall-Crocker states. ‘I’m not waiting anymore, I’m going to do it.’”
In past years transgender people faced a plethora of discrimination and violence against them for being their true selves. Some were closeted for years and others faced humiliation for it. This day is here to show that all transgender or people who fall under the transgender umbrella are not alone.
Senior Abagail-Rose Schlotterer states, “Personally I think one of the best ways to celebrate Trans Visibility Day is by discussing and showcasing the accomplishments achieved by transgender individuals throughout history, because we have always been around and improving the world like anyone else.”
However, people can do much more to celebrate this day. Students find that recognizing other trans people that have made a great contribution to society and educating people about trans life can help spread the word on his memorable day.
“As a student under the transgender umbrella my daily life isn’t much different I believe. Most of it is trying to find a way to be comfortable in my own skin, as my own person, without feeling judged.” Schlotter states, Everyday (not necessarily on campus) I get stares, looks, and sometimes faced with religious insults when I don’t conform to what people expect me to present as. But overall, the only thing I want is to feel authentic to myself, which can be difficult.”
Trans Visibility Day is something that everyone should recognize and celebrate whether it is in a small community or in a social setting. No matter how big or how small it is, any contribution helps the community grow stronger.
