March 31 is the National Transgender Day of Visibility, since it was first observed in 2009, to celebrate living trans and non-binary people, and not just those who have died by transphobic violence – that is, to supplement the Trans Day of Remembrance in November.
There’s a shameful history of transphobia in Canadian culture and the world, and lingering effects of anti-trans discrimination. In many ways we are still in the early stages of eliminating transphobia.
Meanwhile, there is a resurgence of transphobia in the U.S-style culture wars that some extreme-right groups are trying to pursue in Canada.
Visibility matters. Visibility can improve mental health outcomes for trans people living through this turbulent time. It has many outcomes, not least of all a decrease in suicide risk.
Anything that divides us as workers weakens our movement, including transphobia. Some things you can do:
- Hear It! Stop It!: Speak out when you witness homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia
- Learn about trans inclusion
- Advocate for gender inclusive washrooms
- Find out more about building inclusive workplaces
Egale Canada provides resources and ways you can support its mission. CAMH operates a gender identity clinic which supports individuals and families, and champions better mental health care for all. Every day is an opportunity to learn and to become a better ally.
