Is this a social trend, why has the visibility increased?

 

For generations, trans people have been persecuted and discriminated against, with most of society frowning upon those who were brave enough to show who they were. Many people still face this stigma today, but through public discussion, education, and positive media attention, the global trans community has begun to flourish! Trans people have always existed, but more trans people than ever before are coming out each year because they feel safe to do so or that there is more support out there.

In part, the visibility of the trans community is due to Pride Parades and events being held around the world. The biggest Pride to date was undoubtedly WorldPride, held in New York City in 2019, with roughly 4-5 million attendees. Events like these promote visibility as well as acceptance of the LGBT+ community, highlighting the discrimination and oppression faced by the community and providing an outlet for those who are affected by it. It also provides examples and role models for those who are exploring their sexuality or gender identity and provides the public with a level of trans visibility they might not otherwise encounter.

One growing example of an event with a focus on trans identity is International Trans Day of Visibility, held on March 31st every year since 2009. The aim of TDOV is to celebrate trans people around the world and recognise their courage and triumphs, while also raising awareness of the ongoing discrimination trans people face. Other events celebrated worldwide include Transgender Awareness Week, and Transgender Day of Remembrance.

GIRES

GIRES is a UK-wide charity who provides support and information to improve the lives of trans and gender non-conforming people of all ages, including those who are non-binary and non-gender.

GenderGP

GenderGP is an online health and wellbeing medial service offering support, counselling, medication, monitoring and advice to transgender people wishing to transition.

Mermaids

Mermaids is one of the UK’s leading LGBTQ+ charities, empowering thousands of people with its secure online communities, local community groups, helpline services, web resources, events and residential weekends.

Gendered Intelligence

Gendered Intelligence delivers trans youth programmes, support for parents and carers, professional development and trans awareness training for all sectors and educational workshops for schools, colleges, Universities and other educational settings.

Stonewall

Stonewall is the largest LGBT rights charity in Europe, named after the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York.

WPATH

The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) is a non-profit, interdisciplinary professional and educational organization devoted to transgender research and development.