International Transgender Day of Visibility

International Transgender Day of Visibility

International Transgender Day of Visibility is dedicated to celebrating the resilience and accomplishments of transgender and gender non-conforming communities. This observance also aims to raise awareness of the challenges that those in the community encounter. One of the event's fundamental aspects is to inspire societal acceptance and recognition of all genders, promoting equal treatment, rights, and opportunities irrespective of gender identity. In this context, it's also pivotal to encourage people globally to confront and dismantle transphobia and discrimination against transgender individuals.

This day of visibility was initiated by Rachel Crandall, a transgender activist from Michigan, in 2009. Given the fact that transgender individuals in Canada, as elsewhere, face unique and pervasive forms of discrimination, this observance holds particular significance for Canada. The event fosters a platform to discuss and address the various issues such as discrimination in housing, education, and healthcare, experienced by the transgender community. It also helps to bring to light the essential legislative and policy changes needed in Canada to ensure the rights of transgender individuals are protected and upheld.

In Canada, International Transgender Day of Visibility is observed through various activities and events across the country. These include workshops, marches, panel discussions and media campaigns, all curated to celebrate and amplify the voices and experiences of the transgender community. Institutions, as well as influential figures and organizations, take part in these initiatives by expressing their support and solidarity online and offline International Transgender Day of Visibility each year on March 31.

Facts about International Transgender Day of Visibility

• Transgender women, particularly those of color, have dramatically lower life expectancies due to violence. According to one estimate, the average life expectancy of a black trans woman in the Americas is just 30-35 years.
  
• In 2012, Ontario became the first province in Canada to pass Toby's Act, which is a law that amends the Human Rights Code to include gender identity and gender expression as protected grounds from discrimination.
• In the 2021 Canadian Census, for the first time, respondents were given the option to answer a question about their gender in a way that reflects their gender identity, not just their sex at birth.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Transgender Day of Visibility

Top things to do in Canada for this observance

• Browse trans-related infographics that target different questions or aspects within the trans community.
• Learn about definitions and terms so that you may better familiarize yourself with queer and trans language. Tolerance comes from understanding. It requires effort and a willingness to accept change.
• Attend – or Participate in – various Transgender Day of Visibility Events: Many major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal host various events such as marches, speeches, and rallies to raise awareness about transgender issues and to promote equality.
• Participate in the Trans March: An annual rally and protest held in Toronto to celebrate trans, two-spirit, and non-binary individuals. It usually consists of community-based activities and speeches.