Some Thoughts on Trans Day of Visibility

Today is Transgender Day of Visibility. A couple of things to keep in mind + a couple of things to check yourself on:

- Trans folx have existed since human beings started walking and standing on this planet. Look to non-dominant cultures [read: non-white] and you'll find many examples of words, accounts, acceptance, and reverence for trans folx. Look at dominant culture [read: white] and you'll find accounts of marginalization as far back as the 1600s.

- Trans folx don't owe you explanations on their existence or their bodies. They deserve to exist and not have to face your scrutiny or fetishization. You do not get to grill them for their stories or experiences for your own "curiosity." Trans folx get to choose the relationship they want to have with you and what they want to share.

- Trans folx are a marginalized group that struggles with gaining and maintaining employment. A large part of this is due to societal bias, ignorance, and hate that permeates our workplaces. Many trans folx feel disregarded, ignored, tokenized, gaslit, and unsafe in the workplace. If your company, agency, or organization isn't building and maintaining an equitable and inclusive environment for people to thrive your company is contributing to and perpetuating the societal hurdles for trans folx that should not exist.

- Pronouns matter. Using the right pronouns for trans folx matter. Do the work to understand that because using the wrong pronouns and not caring is a you problem that you need to care enough about on more than a superficial ego-driven level to fix. Don't be a tool.

To all of my trans friends and family: I see you. I stand with you. I'll always advocate and support you. I will listen to you if I make mistakes and continue learning and growing in my understanding of your experiences. You matter.