In today’s world, March 31 is not just a day on the calendar. It is a day when the whole world focuses its attention on an important social phenomenon – International Transgender Day of Visibility. Virusoff encourages everyone to respect and recognize the rights of transgender people and brings the global society’s attention to the challenges they face in their daily lives.
It is known that until 2019 (!), transgenderism was listed by the WHO as a mental disorder, which was reflected in many aspects of medical and social practice. However, with the advent of International Transgender Visibility Day and the extensive work of community and activist groups, this situation has begun to change. The ICD-11 classification of diseases, updated in 2022, was a key step in this direction, moving gender nonconformity into the sexual health section.
Despite progress, societal attitudinal problems remain. The risk of HIV infection, violence, problems in accessing medical care, difficulties with employment and finances, and housing problems are only a small part of the challenges facing the transgender community in the Eastern Europe and Central Asia region. Societal pressures, transphobia, and cis-sexist beliefs continue to create barriers to full inclusion and equality. However, International Transgender Day of Visibility has sent a powerful message of support to the community! It is not a day of mourning, but a day of pride, recognition, and support!
What you can do on International Transgender Visibility Day:
- Join a Transgender Day of Visibility event: attending these events around the world expresses your support and inspires others. You can also join various social media events.
- Explore the history of the transgender community – it is full of amazing facts and events that help you understand and accept transgender people as an integral part of society. Learn about notable individuals and events that have made meaningful contributions to the fight for the rights and acceptance of transgender people.
- Support community-led organizations: financial support for these organizations helps them continue their important work and provide assistance and advocacy for the transgender community.
- Respect privacy: respect transgender people’s right to privacy and do not disclose information about their identity without their consent. And remember that not everyone is ready to talk openly about their identity.
- Develop an understanding of gender terms and keep up to date with current terminology: learn the difference between gender identity, gender expression, biological sex, and other terms to better understand and support transgender people. Continually update your knowledge and use respectful terms to create an inclusive environment.
- Help create safe spaces for all: ensure that safe spaces are available for transgender people in different areas of life.
- Recognize multiple identities: consider that transgender people, like everyone else, have different identities and experiences.
- Speak out against transphobia: If you encounter transphobic language or actions, do not remain silent, but speak out and support those who are discriminated against.
- Celebrate diversity and the existence of transgender identities: join the transgender community to mark this day as a day to recognize and celebrate diversity.
- Be tolerant: it is important to be tolerant and advocate for those who face transphobic or cis-sexist language.
- Explain and educate: advocating for tolerance and education is key to combating discrimination. Support and participate in educational programs to create a more inclusive society.
International Transgender Day of Visibility reminds us that visibility alone is important but not enough. The transgender community needs rights, protection, justice, and acceptance. It is important not only to see but also to act to ensure equal opportunity and respect for all its members.