Every March 31st, trans folks and our allies take a moment to celebrate Trans Day of Visibility (TDOV). It’s a day about more than just awareness—it’s about joy, resilience, and making sure the world sees us not just in struggle, but in strength. Unlike Trans Day of Remembrance, which honors the lives we’ve lost, TDOV is a day to recognize and uplift the trans people who are here, living, thriving, and pushing for a better future. But where did this day come from, and why was it created? Let’s dive into the history of TDOV, the intention behind it, and why it matters now more than ever.
The Origins of Trans Day of Visibility
Trans Day of Visibility was founded in 2009 by Rachel Crandall-Crocker, a transgender activist and the executive director of Transgender Michigan.
She created the day because she saw a gap in how trans people were being recognized. At the time, Trans Day of Remembrance (November 20) was the most well-known day dedicated to trans people, but its focus was on mourning those who had been killed due to anti-trans violence.
While remembering and honoring our dead is incredibly important, Rachel wanted a day that focused on the living—on the trans folks who are here, making waves, breaking barriers, and existing in a world that often tries to erase us.
In interviews, Rachel has spoken about how she felt alone as a trans woman and wanted to create something that would bring trans people together in a joyful and affirming way. TDOV started small, with grassroots activists and organizations spreading the word, but over the years, it has grown into a globally recognized day of awareness and celebration.
At its core, Trans Day of Visibility is about empowerment. It’s about showing the world that trans people exist, that we are part of every community, and that we deserve to be seen, heard, and respected. Visibility can be powerful—it helps break down misconceptions, fosters understanding, and shows younger trans folks that they are not alone. It also debunks the narrative that being trans is something to be hidden or ashamed of.
However, visibility is a complicated thing. Not every trans person can be visible safely. For some, being open about their trans identity could mean losing their job, housing, healthcare, or even their lives. That’s why TDOV is also a call to action: it’s not just about being seen, but about demanding rights, resources, and respect for all trans people, including those who cannot be visible.
How You Can Honor TDOV
Whether you’re trans yourself or an ally, there are many ways to participate in Trans Day of Visibility. Here are just a few:
- Amplify trans voices. Share stories, artwork, and perspectives from trans people, especially those from marginalized communities.
- Educate yourself and others. Read up on trans history, trans rights, and the issues affecting trans communities today.
- Support trans-led organizations. Groups like the Advocates for Trans (A4TE) Equality, the Sylvia Rivera Law Project, and Trans Lifeline do crucial work to support trans people. Donations and volunteer work go a long way.
- Advocate for policy change. Visibility is important, but it needs to be backed by action. Push for laws that protect trans rights and oppose those that seek to strip them away.
- Check in on the trans people in your life. Visibility can be exhausting. Sometimes, just asking how someone is doing and offering support can mean everything.
Looking Forward
When trans people are visible, it makes it harder for those in power to pretend we don’t exist. It humanizes us in the eyes of those who might not personally know a trans person. It reminds the world that trans people are your neighbors, coworkers, family members, and friends.
But visibility also comes with risks. Many trans people, especially Black and brown trans folks, face increased violence and discrimination when they are openly trans. That’s why TDOV isn’t just about celebration—it’s about pushing for systemic change. It’s about ensuring trans visibility leads to trans liberation, not just trans tokenization.
Trans Day of Visibility has come a long way since 2009, but the fight for trans rights and liberation is far from over. As attacks on our community grow, so does our resilience. Visibility is a tool to show the world that we are here, and we are not going anywhere.
But the ultimate goal isn’t just to be seen—it’s to be safe, to be respected, and to be free.
So, this March 31st, take a moment to celebrate the trans people who inspire you, honor the history of TDOV, and remember that visibility is just the beginning. The real work is to build a world where all trans people can thrive.
