Transgender Day of Visibility is here! #TransIsBeautiful

Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) is celebrated annually on March 31st to honour and recognise the struggles and achievements of the transgender community. With the 2023 TDOV, it is crucial to reflect on the progress that has been made towards the rights and acceptance of transgender people, as well as the ongoing challenges that the community still faces in Aotearoa New Zealand, and world-wide. 

Over the past few years, there has been a significant increase in visibility and representation of transgender individuals in the media and entertainment industry. More and more trans people are being hired in key roles in film and television, such as actors, writers, and directors, allowing for a wider range of stories and perspectives to be told. Additionally, transgender activists and advocates have been successful in pushing for policy changes that protect the rights of trans individuals.

As we have seen with recent events, one of the by-products of the success the trans community has had in establishing its own space, is that some people start to become defensive and weary. People such as Posie Parker wouldn’t find an audience if this wasn’t the case. The trans community now more than ever, must continue to work for acceptance in a way that engages with the wider community with positivity, because there is still a long way to go.

In the US, contentious legislation is being drawn up and enacted in numerous states, with measures to limit the visibility and even legitimacy of the transgender community. Furthermore, in Hungary, a law was passed that bans gender identity education in schools and prohibits transgender individuals from legally changing their gender. This kind of legislation sends a dangerous message that trans people are not deserving of equal rights and protections, and can contribute to further marginalization and discrimination. 

Here in Aotearoa New Zealand, such reactionary elements have little to no sway in our legislature, and much of that civility and tolerance can be attributed to the campaigns and bravery of pioneers in our public life. Those early efforts were always about engaging with the wider community, raising trans visibility and showing that giving rights to trans people doesn’t take rights away from anyone else. 

An exceptional example is someone I knew and someone I adored - Georgina Beyer, a former actor, drag performer and radio host, who pulled off a surprise victory as a Labour MP and later played a pivotal role in decriminalising prostitution. In 1995, Georgina was elected mayor of Carterton, making her the world's first openly transgender mayor. In 1998 she was re-elected with 90% of the vote. In 1999 she became the world's first openly transgender member of parliament, standing for Labour in the Wairarapa electorate. In addition to supporting the decriminalisation of prostitution, Beyer supported progressive policies including civil unions, anti-discrimination laws and the promotion of Māori rights. At the 2002 election, Beyer re-contested Wairarapa for Labour. She was easily re-elected with an increased majority. Sadly, she passed away on the 6th of March. 

However, despite the visibility, popularity and legacies of figures such as Georgina, trans people continue to face high levels of discrimination, harassment, and violence. According to a report by the National Centre for Transgender Equality, over 90% of transgender people experience workplace harassment, and more than 40% have attempted suicide at some point in their lives due to the discrimination they face. Transgender individuals also face disproportionate rates of violence, with transgender women of colour being at the highest risk for homicide. 

On this year's TDOV, it is important to celebrate the progress that has been made and to honour the resilience and strength of the transgender community. It is also a time to acknowledge the ongoing struggles and injustices that trans people face and to reaffirm our commitment to fighting for their rights and safety. One way to support the transgender community is to educate ourselves on the issues faced and to actively work to challenge transphobia and discrimination in our communities. This can include attending rallies and events, supporting trans-led organizations, and advocating for policies that protect the rights of trans people. Another way to show support is to listen to the voices of transgender individuals and centre their experiences in our conversations. Trans people are the experts on their own lives and experiences, and it is crucial to respect and amplify their perspectives. 

Finally, it is important to recognize that the fight for trans rights intersects with other struggles for social justice. Trans people are disproportionately impacted by poverty, racism, and other forms of oppression, and fighting for their rights requires a commitment to intersectional activism that addresses all of these issues. 

Here in Aotearoa, New Zealand the 2023 Transgender Day of Visibility is an opportunity to celebrate the progress that has been made towards transgender rights and acceptance, while also acknowledging the ongoing challenges and injustices that the community faces. By listening to and supporting transgender individuals, and educating ourselves on the issues they face, we can work towards a future where all people are valued and respected, regardless of their gender identity.