The city of Philadelphia will not be holding its traditional Trans Day of Visibility Flag Raising event this year, as confirmed in an open letter from the Office of LGBT Affairs. However, the Trans Flag will still soar above City Hall from March 28 to March 31, marking the city's continued support for the transgender community.

According to the letter published on the city's official website, while the annual gathering has been shelved, the act of raising the flag is meant to stand as a clear declaration of solidarity with transgender Philadelphians. "Despite the decision to forgo the organized event this year, we are pleased to announce that the Trans Flag will be raised at City Hall on Thursday, March 28," explained Celena Morrison-McLean, Executive Director of the Office of LGBT Affairs. The flag, flying for four days, is intended to symbolize the city's dedication to inclusivity and diversity, according to the City of Philadelphia.

The decision not to host the event comes with a fervent reminder of the challenges and triumphs that mark the lives of transgender individuals. Philadelphia's LGBT Affairs office highlighted this moment as a "crucial" one for acknowledging the resilience and achievements of the transgender community.

Encouraging participation from the community, the Office of LGBT Affairs emphasizes continuous advocacy for transgender rights. "While we may not be hosting the event in its traditional form, we encourage you to join us in commemorating Trans Day of Visibility by acknowledging the raised Trans Flag at City Hall," Morrison-McLean stated in the open letter, as per the City of Philadelphia.

The office also called for support of local organizations and initiatives that are working towards fostering a just and inclusive society for all. By raising the Trans Flag, the city hopes to not only celebrate its transgender community but also to further the conversation about the pressing need for equality and acceptance.