Minneapolis/ Community & Society
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Published on April 10, 2024
Ramsey County Commemorates April 9 as Transgender Day of Visibility to Honor and Support CommunitySource: Unsplash/Ramsey County Minnesota

In a move to champion inclusivity and honor the transgender community, Ramsey County has officially marked April 9 as Transgender Day of Visibility. This new annual observance celebrates the courage, and resilience of transgender individuals while promoting awareness of the discrimination they face. "Transgender Day of Visibility honors the memory, bravery, and resilience of trans people in our community and around the world," states the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners on their website.

As part of the commemoration, Ramsey County is taking a stance against anti-trans prejudice, noting its role in connecting transgender, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming people with vital services and healthcare. The proclamation emphasizes the commitment to embrace intersectional experiences—they include race, gender identity and expression, disability, and sexual orientation. A presentation was held to mark the occasion, alongside a reading of the proclamation and a gallery viewing on Flickr.

Acknowledging the importance of awareness, Ramsey County's proclamation aims to shed light on the struggles faced by transgender people, both at a local and global scale. This day of visibility underscores the county's dedication to fostering an environment that not only accepts but also celebrates the diversity within its community.

The Board of Commissioners has called for other organizations and governmental entities to follow suit, suggesting that wider recognition could bring about a more affirming and accepting society for all. The county has made available resources to educate and inform the public about the significance of this day, while also providing support for those in need. The available literature and a collection of images on Flickr serve as a testament to the lives and experiences of transgender individuals in Ramsey County.