Happy Transgender Day of Visibility!

Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) was created not just to remember the trans people who have lost their lives to discrimination, but to celebrate those who are still here—living, thriving, and being unapologetically themselves. It was started by trans advocate Rachel Crandall 16 years ago, and every March 31st since, people around the world have joined in to honor and uplift transgender voices. Even in 2021, President Joe Biden issued a formal proclamation recognizing the day. That kind of recognition matters.

But while we’ve made progress, we’re also seeing some serious pushback.

This year, Utah became the first state to ban pride flags—like the trans flag—from being flown at schools and government buildings unless they get special permission from the Republican governor. Starting in May, any government building that flies a non-approved flag can be fined $500 a day. Idaho is trying to follow in Utah’s footsteps, and lawmakers in Florida are also pushing bills to ban pride flags from public spaces. It’s frustrating and honestly ridiculous. A pride flag isn’t a political statement—it’s a symbol of identity, of love, of community. Gender identity isn’t about politics, it’s about who people are. In response, hundreds of people in Utah came together and carried a 200-foot trans flag right outside the state capital. It’s moments like this that remind us we’re not going backwards without a fight.

I feel really lucky to be growing up in a generation where celebrities and creators actually use their platforms to stand up for what’s right. Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, and so many others speak up loudly in support of the 2SLGBTQI+ community. Even shows for kids are starting to feature characters with all kinds of gender identities. When you grow up seeing people like you on screen, it changes how you see yourself. It tells you you’re not alone. It tells you you matter. 

The media is such a powerful tool. It has the ability to shape how entire generations think. That’s why authentic representation is so important. It pushes back against the stereotypes and hate that previous generations have been so conditioned to reinforce. It helps build empathy, and it shows the world that being different isn’t something to hide—it’s something to celebrate. 

And it’s not just about being “seen.” Visibility is great, but it has to come with support and protection too. What’s the point of being visible if it means being targeted? When lawmakers ban pride flags or try to erase queer identities from schools, it doesn’t make the community disappear—it just makes people feel less safe. Less accepted. Less human.

That’s why TDOV is so important. It’s not just a hashtag or a one-day event. It’s a reminder that trans people exist, and they deserve to be treated with the same respect and dignity as anyone else. It’s about saying: “We see you. We celebrate you. And we’ll keep showing up for you.” So, let’s keep showing up. Let’s support trans creators, speak up when we hear hate, and keep pushing for policies that protect—not punish—queer people. Let’s keep carrying those giant flags and making noise. Because everyone deserves to live without fear, and with so much pride.