The International Transgender Day of Visibility is recognized every year on March 31st. This day is dedicated to celebrating transgender people. Let's honour their contributions to society and raise awareness of the discrimination faced by transgender people worldwide.
US transgender activist Rachel Crandall of Michigan established this day in 2009. This was a reaction to the lack of recognition for transgender people. The only well-known transgender-centered day was the Transgender Day of Remembrance, which mourned the murders of transgender people. TODV was created to acknowledge and celebrate living members of the transgender community.
Monica Helmes, a trans woman, created the transgender flag in 1999. She describes the meaning of the transgender flag as follows:
"The stripes at the top and bottom are light blue, the traditional colour for baby boys. The stripes next to them are pink, the traditional colour for baby girls. The stripe in the middle is white, for those who are intersex, transitioning, or consider themselves having a neutral or undefined gender. The pattern is such that no matter which way you fly it, it is always correct, signifying us finding correctness in our lives."
We believe that everyone should celebrate Trans Day of Visibility. We encourage allies and advocates to promote acceptance for all. We also understand how daunting life is for trans people who say to the world, "This is who I am." While they yearn for increased visibility on this day—and every day in their workplaces, schools, and communities—many fear that living their truth can threaten their very being.
We all want to belong and be seen for who we truly are. Here at Danna Bananas, we are proud supporters. Please accept and love people for who they are.
