A Tribute to the Transgender Community on Transgender Visibility Day 


Being an ally to the transgender and non binary community means standing alongside some of the bravest people I know. Those people have chosen to live as their authentic selves despite a world that makes it difficult. They ask for nothing more than the right to be who they are, yet society repeatedly questions their identity, challenges their existence and constantly puts obstacles in their way.


Imagine being told that your own experience of yourself isn't real. Or that your truth is up for debate. It is a painful, isolating and frustrating reality that many transgender people face every day. We see this in other areas of life too; people with chronic pain or anxiety disorders often struggle to be believed because others can't see their struggles. But just as pain is real even when it is invisible, transgender and non binary people are real, valid and deserving of respect.

The Right To Simply Exist 

At the core of this conversation is a simple truth: Transgender people want to live their daily lives just like anyone else. They want to be accepted for who they are without the debate. They are not asking for special treatment. Just the basic dignity of being seen, heard and respected.

And what does someone's gender identity have to do with anyone else? Why should it be anyone else's concern other than their own? Yet, time and again, transgender people are denied respect, safety, choice and acceptance. They are made to feel as though they don't belong in society, which is completely wrong.

The Impact On Young Transgender People

The growing visibility of transgender people over the last few years has helped to give young people something invaluable; language to describe their inner experiences, role models to look up to, and  a sense they are not alone. For many, this has been life-changing. Unfortunately, we are now in a position whereby there are no longer the resources to help these young people and  they are being left without support and  ability to live freely as who they are. This cannot happen, and things need to change.

A Call for Compassion and Action

Transgender people, young and old, deserve more. They deserve respect, kindness, and the freedom to live as their true selves without fear.  As allies, we must continue to stand with them, speak up, and push back against the polices and  attitudes that seek to silence them. 

There may be those who still don't understand, but why not just believe what they are telling you and offer empathy instead of doubt. Everyone deserves the right to be themselves. 

And so, I wish all the transgender and non binary community a happy transgender day of visibility. Let yourselves shine your lovely lights around the world. 


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