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

April is around the corner, but before we kick off another month, please join us in recognizing Trans Day of Visibility in Canada – an annual event meant to raise awareness for the transgender and gender non-conforming communities and to celebrate their many accomplishments.

This year, no matter who you are, what you look like, or where you come from there are several ways to get involved. Not sure where to start? Here are just a few ways you can participate in Calgary!

ATTEND AN EVENT OR WORKSHOP

THE FLAG RAISING AT CITY HALL 

This Friday, head to city hall for an event that will uplift, celebrate and inspire the trans community and its allies for International Trans Day of Visibility. Connect as a community and show your support as Calgary hoists the blue, white and pink flag in front of its most iconic building.

When: Friday, March 31st, 2023
Where: Calgary City Hall, 800 Macleod Trail SE, Calgary, AB
Time: 5 pm – 6 pm

RAINBOW HEALTH EDUCATION AND TRAINING

This year, learn something new and potentially life-changing! Ontario-based organization, Rainbow Health, offers a ton of incredible workshops and resources in hopes of educating the public about the health challenges and barriers to accessing care that the 2SLGBTQ community faces.

Where: online here

DRAG DAY OF SOLIDARITY

Show your pride, Calgary! On April 1st, Calgarians are encouraged to attend a city-wide series of drag show pop-ups held in support of Queer Citizens United, a group that defends queer events from hostility and aims to build solidarity between marginalized groups – including the trans community.

When: Friday, April 1st, 2023
Where: See participating venues here

DONATE

For those of you in a position to help others financially, there are a ton of incredible charities and organizations where your money will go a long way.

Here are just a few in and around Calgary, Alberta and Canada:

• The Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity 
• Skipping Stone Of Alberta
• Trans Equality Society Of Alberta
• EGALE
• Queer and Trans Health Collective
• OUTreach Southern Alberta
• End of The Rainbow Foundation

OR VOLUNTEER

If, of course, you’re unable to give an organization your money – you can also give them your time. Many of the not-for-profits above are often looking for volunteers and it’s through work that you can give back, learn and grow.

For more information about how Canada is commemorating Trans Day of Visibility in Canada we encourage you to visit this website here.

Be kind, be you and be a part of change! There’s no better day than today to make a difference.