The Multnomah County Board of Commissioners has set out to recognize the contributions and struggles of the transgender community by proclaiming March 31, as Transgender Day of Visibility. This noteworthy day is intended to offer support and raise awareness of the broad spectrum of gender identities, including transgender, Two Spirit, nonbinary, and others, celebrated both locally and across the globe, according to an official proclamation.
An advocate for the county's gender-expansive community, Commissioner Sharon Meieran, who is sponsored the proclamation, is in her final year on the Board. She has voiced her pride and appreciation for the chance to back this declaration consistently each year of her tenure. In discussion with Multnomah County, Meieran pointed out the critical differences between the Transgender Day of Visibility and Transgender Day of Remembrance, which is focused on honoring transgender individuals who have fallen victim to anti-transgender violence.
In her remarks, Commissioner Meieran stressed the importance of the Transgender Day of Visibility as a platform for not just acknowledgment, but also celebration. “unlike Transgender Day of Remembrance, it’s an opportunity to highlight and celebrate our incredible transgender community,” Meieran said, highlighting that the day goes beyond reminiscing the struggles for transgender rights, as reported by the Multnomah County.
The designation of this day has garnered support throughout the county, showing a commitment to inclusivity and respect for all individuals, regardless of gender identity. As the proclamation affirms, this inclusivity extends not only to the transgender community but to various gender expressions, in fostering an environment of visibility and advocacy. With the Transgender Day of Visibility approaching, individuals throughout Multnomah County are preparing to engage in events and initiatives designed to uplift and empower those often marginalized by society, reflecting the proclamation's ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity and understanding among communities.
