Trans Day of Visibility was created by Rachel Crandall-Crocker in 2009 as a response to the death of Rita Hester, a Black trans woman living in Boston. Here is a list of 12 things you can do in solidarity with the transgender community this March 31st.
1. Watch Growing Up Coy
Made by Eric Juhola and Jeremy Nathaniel Stulberg, this documentary about one family’s landmark case for transgender equality in Colorado follows 6-year-old Coy Mathis, a trans girl who fought for her right to use the girl’s bathroom in her elementary school (Watch Growing Up Coy on Amazon Prime).
2. Watch Disclosure
This documentary examines Hollywood’s depiction of transgender people and the impact it’s left on both the transgender community and American culture. (Watch Disclosure on Netflix).
3. Watch The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson
Directed by David France this documentary chronicles Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, prominent figures in gay liberation and transgender rights movement in New York City from the 1960s to the 1990s. The film centers on activist Victoria Cruz’s investigation into Johnson’s death in 1992, which was initially ruled a suicide by police despite suspicious circumstances (Watch The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson on Netflix).
4. Watch Kiki
This documentary film follows the lives of LGBTQ+ youth of color who are part of the “Kiki” ballroom scene in New York City. The film explores the challenges they face, including discrimination, homelessness, and HIV/AIDS, while highlighting their resilience and creativity as they use the ballroom as a space for self-expression and community building. (Watch Kiki on Amazon Prime).
5. Attend a Virtual Workshop by Time Out Youth
Sign up to attend a 60 minute pay what you can spring/summer virtual workshop hosted by Time Out Youth. The LGBTQ+ 101 Workshop will cover basic statistics regarding LGBTQ+ youth experiences, terminology, and best practices when working with LGBTQ+ youth. Visit their website to learn more!
6. Post on your Story
Use your social media platforms to amplify the voices of trans individuals. Share stories, articles, and resources that promote trans visibility and understanding.
7. Support Trans Justice Organizations
Vogue has written an article that includes 5 Trans Justice Organizations you may consider supporting (The Sylvia Rivera Law Project, Transgender Law Center, TransLifeline, for the Gworls, Emergency Release Fund). Take time to read their article to orient yourself with work being done to advocate for the trans community.
8. Donate to Trans Organizations
There are many organizations that work to support and uplift the trans community. Consider making a donation to one of these organizations such as the Transgender Law Center or the National Center for Transgender Equality.
9. Listen to Gender Reveal
The Gender Reveal podcast explores the vast diversity of trans experiences through interviews with a wide array of trans, nonbinary and two-spirit people. Created by journalist and educator Tuck Woodstock, the show also serves as a free educational tool for anyone seeking to learn more about gender.
10. Listen to Queerly Beloved
The Queerly Beloved podcast is hosted by two queer, non-binary individuals, Bel and Phoebe. Each episode features conversations about various aspects of LGBTQ+ life, including relationships, sex, identity, and community. The hosts share their own personal experiences and perspectives, as well as interview guests from diverse backgrounds to offer a range of insights and advice. With a fun and lighthearted approach, Queerly Beloved” aims to create a supportive and inclusive space for all listeners to feel seen and heard.
11. Listen to Translash
The Translash podcast is hosted by journalist and transgender rights activist, Imara Jones. Episodes feature in-depth conversations with guests on a range of topics affecting the transgender community, including politics, healthcare, and social justice. The purpose of the pod is to amplify the voices and experiences of trans and gender non-conforming individuals, and to provide a platform for trans-led discussions on issues affecting the community.
12. Support Trans Artists by Listening to Their Music
By supporting artists who are openly inclusive and supportive of the LGBTQ+ community, you can help promote greater visibility and acceptance for trans individuals in the music industry.
- Ela Melo – Lead singer of Rainbow Kitten Surprise, they send a message of solidarity and belonging that can be meaningful and empowering to those who may feel marginalized or isolated.
- Shea Diamond – Known for her powerful and soulful voice and advocacy work for trans rights.
- Anohni – The lead singer of the band Antony and the Johnsons, who has been vocal about her experiences as a trans woman and uses her music as a platform for political activism.
- Angel Haze – A rapper and singer who has spoken candidly about her experiences as a gender-nonconforming individual and has been praised for her raw and honest approach to music and storytelling.
