Ways to observe the International Trans Day of Visibility in Vancouver this year

The International Trans Day of Visibility is coming up on Friday, March 31st, and there are a handful of tangible ways you can support the community in Vancouver and beyond this year. Founded in 2009 by trans activist Rachel Crandall, the day celebrates the contributions made by trans, non-binary, and Two-Spirit communities, and brings awareness to the discrimination and barriers they face.

As well, the day recognizes individuals who identify with the community but cannot or choose not to be visible.

So with that in mind, here are some events and resources to check out in Vancouver this International Trans Day of Visibility.

Trans Day of Visibility Gender-Affirmation Free Store

From 10 am to 2 pm on Friday, March 31st, UBC’s Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO) is hosting a free shopping experience for non-binary individuals looking for some new wardrobe pieces. Oh, and refreshments will be provided as well!

And if you’re looking to donate, the SVPRO is accepting gently-used clothing donations until March 30th.

When: 10 am to 2 pm on Friday, March 31st
Where: 6363 Agronomy Road, Orchard Commons 4061

Trans Rights Rally

Organized by teen activist 7ven Perks, this rally is an opportunity for the trans community and its allies to come together and raise awareness of the importance of trans rights, which include the right for trans youth to safely become trans adults.

“We want to send a message that trans people shouldn’t have to live in fear. I’ve organized the rally to help raise awareness of the issues trans people face and to help create a stronger sense of community. It’s important for me that nobody feels alone. I believe that building a strong community is crucial in achieving our goals of respect and equality,” says 7ven in a statement.

The rally will take place at Grandview Park on Friday, March 31st at 3:30 pm. Attendees are encouraged to bring banners and wear their trans pride colours in solidarity.

When: 3:30 pm on Friday, March 31st
Where: 1657 Charles Street

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Vancouver Park Board Pride

The Vancouver Park Board has a ton of new programs serving Two-Spirit, trans, gender-diverse (2STGD) individuals, as well as the 2SLGBTQIA+ community as a whole.

Weekly drop-in swim sessions are available for 2STGD individuals of all ages. And for those 13 and up, there are weekly workout classes as well. For more recreational, art-focused, and social events, you can check out their current programs page.

Further information about the trans community and how to be an effective ally are available at the following province-wide resources and local non-profits in Vancouver:

• Trans Care BC – gender-affirming care & peer support
• The 519 – free training, education, community programs, health services, & more
• Qmunity – free counselling, peer support, & gender-affirming chest wear (Vancouver)
• Queer Arts Festival – creative collaboration & experimentation (Vancouver)
• Urban Native Youth Association 2-Spirit Collective – workshops, art, & ceremony for Indigenous youth aged 15 to 30 (Vancouver)

No matter your identity or level of visibility, support is out there! If you’re looking to connect with other members of the community or engage with trans issues, consider this a solid place to start.