“‘If others can exist, so can you’: Finding trans community around the Monterey Bay” – KAZU
On the eve of the 15th annual Trans Day of Visibility, Ruiz said he thinks visibility means “getting everyone to know that there’s people that you might not think are trans … that they exist, showing that they’re here.”
“Photo: Diversity Center celebrates Transgender Day of Visibility” – The Santa Cruz Sentinel
The Diversity Center partnered with UCSC’s Lionel Cantú Queer Resource Center to provide welcoming space for all during the festivities, which included art projects, a photo booth, creation of a “joy” quilt and community building. Transgender Day of Visibility was first envisioned by transgender activist Rachel Crandall in 2009 as a reaction to the lack of LGBTQ+ recognition of transgender people, citing the frustration that the only well-known transgender-centered day was the Transgender Day of Remembrance, which “mourned the murders of transgender people, but did not acknowledge and celebrate living members of the transgender community.”
“Trans Day of Visibility began 15 years ago. The founder is still moved by its success” – KQED
“Trans advocates from around the world caught on, launching rallies, block parties and festivals rooted in trans joy. In recent years, the U.S. government has recognized International Transgender Day of Visibility, and skyscrapers across the country have lit up with the colors of the transgender flag — light pink, light blue and white.”
“A Proclamation on Transgender Day of Visibility, 2024” – The White House
“Transgender Americans are part of the fabric of our Nation. Whether serving their communities or in the military, raising families or running businesses, they help America thrive. They deserve, and are entitled to, the same rights and freedoms as every other American, including the most fundamental freedom to be their true selves.”