International Transgender Day of Visibility

International Transgender Day of Visibility

International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) seeks to recognize and respect of people who identify as transgender. Its central aim is to honour the courage and resilience of transgender individuals and communities, whilst challenging the social and institutional barriers they face. TDOV also draws attention to the achievements of transgender individuals, yet at the same time underlining the importance of acknowledging that these accomplishments are often overshadowed by prejudice and misunderstanding.

TDOV originated in the United States in 2009, founded by activist Rachel Crandall-Crocker with the intention to complement the Transgender Day of Remembrance. Across the Tasman, in New Zealand, this observance has particular resonance. New Zealand is recognised for its progressive societal attitudes and laws, from being one of the first countries to decriminalise homosexuality to implementing comprehensive human rights protections for transgender individuals. Nonetheless, TDOV highlights that advancement in regulation doesn't necessarily equate to comprehensive societal acceptance and it emphasises the ongoing need for education and understanding.

In New Zealand, International Transgender Day of Visibility is marked through various activities and events. These can include marches and rallies, supportive social gatherings, informational sessions, and workshops aimed at promoting acceptance and inclusivity. Various institutions, organisations, and community groups actively participate in these initiatives, fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding. International Transgender Day of Visibility is observed annually on March 31, providing an essential opportunity for New Zealand to reaffirm its commitment towards the rights and wellbeing of its transgender community.

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 2006, New Zealand gave legal recognition to transgender people's self-identified gender, via the 'Human Rights Commission's Transgender Inquiry'. The same year, the High Court ruled in favor of a transgender woman, stating that she had the same rights and privileges as any other woman under the law, including the right to marry a man.
• Georgina Beyer was the world's first openly transsexual mayor, as well as the world's first openly transsexual Member of Parliament, elected in 1999 in New Zealand.

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

Top things to do in NZ 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.
• Visit the Charlotte Museum: Located in Auckland, this museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing lesbian culture, including transgender history.
• Attend the Auckland Pride Festival: Organized by Auckland Pride Committee, this annual event showcases a variety of cultural, social, and political events, performances, and forums that promote acceptance and inclusivity of the LGBT+ community, including transgender individuals.