Transgender Day of Visibility Got Its Start in Michigan

Transgender Day of Visibility was yesterday March 31st!

While the world celebrated this extraordinary day, I wonder how it came to be.

Did you know that this important day got its start in Michigan?

Did You Know That Transgender Day of Visibility Got Its Start in Michigan?

Transgender Day of Visibility is all thanks to Rachel Crandall-Crocker!

In 1997, Rachel Crandall-Crocker came out as transgender. She is the executive director of the nonprofit advocacy group, Transgender Michigan. Transgender Michigan is the first transgender organization in the state.

Why did she want to highlight this day?

“I wanted a day that we could come together all over the world. I wanted a day that we could celebrate. I wanted a day that we could be proud. And I had called that day the International Transgender Day of Visibility, which by the way, I am now calling it the month of visibility!”

According to The State News, Rachel, also an MSU alumna, shared the day's importance.

"International Transgender Day of Visibility serves to educate and illuminate the struggles and triumphs of transgender individuals, fostering connections among trans-identifying people and allies for a brighter future, Crandall-Crocker said. It aims to dispel misconceptions and provide hope and truth, particularly for transgender youth."

While the holiday was celebrated across the country, roughly 150 people gathered together on the Capitol steps in Lansing to celebrate the 15th anniversary.

Each year, Transgender Day of Visibility falls on March 31. Now in 2024, President Joe Biden made an official proclamation!

"Transgender Americans are part of the fabric of our Nation. Whether serving their communities or in the military, raising families or running businesses, they help America thrive. They deserve, and are entitled to, the same rights and freedoms as every other American, including the most fundamental freedom to be their true selves.”

How did you celebrate Transgender Day Of Visibility?