TODAY is International Transgender Day of Visibility.
Now, if you’ve been following me for a while, you already know…
There’s nothing I hate more than performative activism. It makes my skin crawl and it enrages me.
At the height of the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement, I went on a social media rant about white business owners who were keeping themselves busy posting black squares on social media…
But not actually getting out there to march through the streets of America, or take out their wallets and give to organizations in need.
Now, I won’t be ranting this year or accidentally going viral because of my passion.
But I WILL highlight some ways you can celebrate Trans Day of Visibility in a meaningful, non-performative way.
First of all, why does this day exist — and why does it matter?
Because the trans and non-binary community has been suppressed and rejected by society for centuries — experiencing higher levels of poverty, violence, and lack of legal protection.
Because this community has played a key role in supporting civil rights movements, including the Black Lives Matter movement.
Because trans and non-binary folks deserve the same access and acceptance as everyone else.
This community NEEDS more visibility — and I’m happy to do whatever I can to shine light and positivity on these amazing human beings.
Here’s 8+ ways you can celebrate Trans Day of Visibility in a meaningful way:
1. Educate yourself about what it’s like to be a trans person in the world today.
Did you know, for instance, that trans people are 4 times more likely to be the victim of a violent crime compared to a cisgender person? Did you know that there are 280 US legislative proposals in 2022 that (if passed) could reverse civil rights for trans folks?
Go learn the uncomfortable facts. Get informed. Get outraged. And then, get involved.
2. Go support a LGBTQIA+ small business in your city or town.
Buy a painting. Get a t-shirt. Show support not just with a quick social media post, but with your dollars.
3. If you’re shopping online, add the goodbuy extension to your browser.
As you’re browsing items online, goodbuy will notify you whenever you can buy a similar – or better – product from an LGBTQIA+ owned small business. SO cool.
4. Go learn about an inspiring trans entrepreneur.
Queerency, a digital media company that brings you the best in queer business, compiled an excellent list of 25 people you should know.
Extra credit: choose one person from that list and send a personal message to say, “Thank you for adding beauty to the world” … “You’re a badass writer! I love your work” … “I’m so inspired by the business you’re running. Thank you for doing the work that you do.” Go make someone’s day.
5. Make a donation (any amount helps) to an organization that directly supports the trans community. One option: donate to the National Queer & Trans Therapists of Color Network.
6. Is your bookshelf looking a little…cisgender and colonized? Buy books written by a trans author. Bookriot made a terrific list of books written by trans and genderqueer writers.
7. Tune up your language skills and make sure you’re not accidentally using hurtful language. My team at Hello Seven put together an inclusive language guide which you’re welcome to read and share. It’s not “everything” but it’s a good place to start.
8. Talk to your kids about trans role models and heroes. Do your kids know about Amy Schneider, Jeopardy’s first trans woman contestant – who now has the record for second-longest winning streak in Jeopardy history? Have they heard of MJ Rodriguez – the first openly trans person in history to win a Golden Globe? Say their names. Celebrate their achievements.
But more than anything else, see: action item #2. Purchase products, services, books, music, and artwork from trans creators.
The most meaningful way to show support and solidarity is to say, “I love this! I’ll take one in every color, please. Here’s my card. And could I also grab a gift certificate while I’m here?”
Today – and every day – let’s really celebrate our trans community — with our genuine support and our money.
To the LGBTQIA+ folks in the Hello Seven community: we see you, we appreciate you, and we’re committed to helping you reach your financial goals — and gain the economic power that you rightfully deserve.
With you. Always.
xo,
Rachel
