Tackling stigma on Trans Day of Visibility

THIS Friday is International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV). Occurring every year on March 31, the day is dedicated to celebrating trans people and raising awareness of the discrimination they face worldwide.

“The general population tend to have a very specific idea of what a trans person looks like and assume they could identify a trans person in the street,” said Nick from TransFolk of WA.

“TDOV shows the true diversity of the trans community.”

Groups around the country are celebrating this TDOV with a range of community events for trans people and friends. Here’s a selection of what’s happening.

In Brisbane, the QUT Queer Collective is holding a picnic at the Kelvin Grove campus from 12:30 pm.

“It’s important for the world to realise that trans people exist and are just as normal as the rest of the world,” said organisers.

“Trans people still suffer harsh treatment globally. Having a day to recognise that trans people exist and are as valid as everyone else is important for those who are still discovering themselves, in hiding, and even those who are already out.”

The Griffith Queer Society is also holding a barbecue at South Bank from 5 pm. The Story Bridge will be lit in the trans colours of pink, white and blue to mark TDOV.

Sydney’s USyd Queer Collective is holding a big night in Newtown with a discussion forum, film screening and party. It all starts from 2:30 pm and the celebrations will continue into the wee hours.

In Melbourne, Minus18 is hosting an afternoon celebration for trans folks aged under 25. Kicking off at 4 pm at Knowledge Market in Docklands, it will feature discussion, workshops and activities.

Ygender is holding a panel discussion in Carlton on visibility and what it means to be trans, and VU Pride is hosting an afternoon trans clothing swap at the Footscray Park campus.

“Trans stories are so often erased,” said Ygender organisers.

“Trans visibility, when it’s on our terms, gives us space to share our experiences with other people, especially other trans people. Having brilliant, diverse trans role models can make a huge difference to trans people, especially when we’re first questioning our genders.

“For a lot of trans young people, accessing the clothes and gender affirming items we need to fully express ourselves and be comfortable can be hugely difficult. The clothes swap is a chance for trans/gender diverse people to access the items we need in an affirmative community-led space.”

On Sunday in Perth, TransFolk of WA are hosting a relaxed picnic in Kings Park from 11 am. The day promises games, activities and plenty of food.

“This year to celebrate our resilience we are having a huge catered picnic to raise funds for our community,” said the Perth organisers.

“Whole families are coming to join in on the party and we have planned games, team building exercises, and a creativity station for those who feel a little anxious or creative to sit quietly and sew themselves a stuffed toy, draw or do some mindful colouring.”