International Transgender Day of Visibility
Published on 31 March 2023 09:05 AM
International Transgender Day of Visibility takes place on the 31st of March each year. Its aim is to raise awareness around the discrimination faced by trans and non-binary people. It is also an opportunity for those questioning their identity to recognise the support available for the LGBTQ+ community.
The three main aims of the #IAmEnough campaign work in solidarity to empower the trans and non-binary community. These aims include:
- Acceptance of individuals in their chosen gender, just the way they are without the need for change/treatment/qualifying factors.
- Promotion of self-deceleration of gender identity.
- Visibility of non-binary identities.
How International Transgender Day of Visibility started
Since 2009, International Transgender Day of Visibility day has been recognised worldwide to celebrate the strength of the trans community following the Transgender Day of Remembrance. A day of remembering those in the community who have lost their lives to hateful acts of violence.
Trans rights activist, Rachel Crandall-Crocker wanted a day of celebration and uplifting. After losing both her husband and job once she transitioned, she established “International Trans Day of Visibility”. Since then, she has worked to pioneer the transgender visibility movement and encouraged people and organisations worldwide to celebrate with her.
Rachel herself has even stated in an interview with Them/Us, “I really believe it is a “coming out” process for them. It’s easy to call yourself an ally. However, to really get out there for us, speak up for us, to write letters and educate your friends — that is something else”. You can view that whole interview here.
Showing your support
To show your support as an ally, use the #YouAreEnough hashtag to support those around you. It also would benefit allies to research the ways in which you can show support. A study from the Stonewall LGBT Trans Report has shown that:
- 1 in 7 trans people aren’t open about their gender identity to anyone in their family. This number increases to 1 in 4 non-binary people.
- 6% of trans people are also not open about their gender identity to any of their friends.
Allyship is vital in the visibility of trans and non-binary people. The most helpful thing we can do as allies is listen and be respectful of everyone’s wishes.
Transitioning in Later Life
The realisation of gender dysphoria in those over 50 may occur after significant events such as retirement or the passing of a partner. These events can open the opportunity to think about gender identity.
Older people who have transitioned are able to live successfully as their affirmed gender. However, this undoubtedly does come with challenges as well as advantages. The ability to live freely as their affirmed gender allows for peace of mind and significantly improves wellbeing. Despite this, the changing of a social and professional identity comes with many hurdles.
Some of these include the changing of legal documentation, the feeling of having to declare your identity again to friends and family, and the overwhelming feeling of having to start over. Especially when for many others over 50, this is the time to settle affairs.
How we can help
Here at Age UK North Tyneside, we are proud to provide a range of inclusive and specialist services to the older LGBTQ+ community in North Tyneside.
Our aim is to make sure everyone enjoys later life, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. We want to make sure that the older LGBTQ+ community in North Tyneside is welcomed and supported by everyone.
We are also very proud to have a Transgender Group for the older trans community. Our group provides a safe space for transgender people over 50 to come together and socialise, share help, share experiences, and build confidence. Nobody should live in isolation or face discrimination.
Age UK offer an informative resource on coming out later in life. Check out this resource on trans issues and later life. Other sources that are useful for supporting older transgender people include:
To find out more about our support for the transgender community, call us on 0191 280 8484 or get in touch online.