Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) was founded on March 31, 2009 by Rachel Crandall as a day of awareness to celebrate transgender and gender-nonconforming people. 

This year marks the first presidential proclamation recognizing the day. In his remarks, President Biden recognized generations of activism by transgender and nonbinary people.

Despite this meaningful progress, the National Network to End Domestic Violence reminds us that our mission must do better:

“Every trans person deserves respect and safety, including trans survivors of domestic violence, who often face transphobic discrimination, hate, and abuse when trying to access the resources and support they need.”

We are committed to welcoming and respectful services to support trans and non-binary people. You deserve individualized, survivor-centered advocacy that responds to your unique safety and healing needs.

You have the right to safety without discrimination based on your gender, transgender status, or gender expression. This  resource from the National Center for Transgender Equality includes answers to many commonly asked questions about domestic violence shelters.

As we reflect on today’s meaning, these images and statements from the Trans Affirmation Coloring Book by Theo Nicole Lorenz really resonate:

“I deserve to feel happy, safe, and loved.”

“My gender identity is one of the many lovable things about me.”

“My gender presentation is for me, and it can be whatever I want it to be.”