As the inspiring Laverne Cox once said, “Who you are is beautiful and amazing.” The joy of knowing who oneself and living authentically is a worthy of celebration. Throughout the year, there are a number of opportunities to celebrate different identities and on March 31st, the focus is on the lives and achievements of transgender people.
Since 2009, March 31st has been recognized as the International Transgender Day of Visibility because of the tireless work of Rachel Crandall-Crocker*. Different from Transgender Day of Remembrance which occurs annually on November 20th, Transgender Day of Visibility is a day to honour and celebrate transgender people. This day, recognized by the Canadian government, also raises awareness of discrimination faced by the trans and non-binary community by sharing the stories of transgender people.
March 31st will be a day to centre transgender identities. As educators, we strive to create welcoming and inclusive educational spaces for all children and families to feel part of the community. If it’s your first time recognizing International Trans Day of Visibility, start with building your own knowledge. Take some time to learn about trans people, their histories, and their stories. There are a number of resources online, including many from ETFO, that can support your learning.
There are also many beautiful stories that would make a lovely book display in the classroom or library. Being visible about your support for gender diverse people is noted by those who need your support the most. It also creates space for transgender voices to be heard. As educators, we can use our privilege to amplify the voices of trans people who have been typically silenced.
Learn how to recognize transphobia and what to say or do when you see or hear it arise. Reflect on the spaces in your schools. How can you prepare spaces for children, colleagues, and community members to feel comfortable and seen in your school – whether they have arrived yet or not? How can we learn this together with our colleagues?
As educators, we have the power to shape a joyful observance of International Transgender Day of Visibility in schools. I urge you to consider how you will help transgender children, community members, and staff to feel celebrated for their brilliance, achievements, and ongoing contributions to our world on March 31st and beyond.
Books
Sparkle Boy by Leslie Newman
I Am Jazz by Jessica Herthel and Jazz Jennings
Jacob’s New Dress by Sarah Hoffman
Born Ready by Jodie Patterson
Ana on the Edge by AJ Sass
Night of the Living Zed by Basil Sylvester and Kevin Sylvester
For Educator Learning
Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario – 2SLGBTQ+ Resources
Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario – No One’s Gender Identity Should Be Up for Debate
Egale – Trans Day of Visibility
*Rachel Crandall Crocker is a licensed psychotherapist specializing in transgender issues. She is also an international transgender activist, and the founder and organizer of the International Transgender Day of Visibility. (from Transgender Michigan)
