Visibility is vital. That was the message, and the point, of Trans Day of Visibility (TDOV).
Observed every year on March 31, it is an opportunity for trans men and women to celebrate who they are and for allies to stand beside them.
TransInclusive Group hosted this year’s event at The Pride Center in Wilton Manors. Joyful musical performances were sprinkled in between speakers who shared their stories.
Activist Rajee Narinsingh read a spoken word poem called Transgender Anthem and Declaration.
It reads in part, “Transgender family, let us shine bright. And let our light lead us through every earthly plight.”
Local barber and U.S. Army veteran James Tyrcha says he’s been attending TDOV events for five years and was excited, and a little nervous, to speak for the first time.
“From the age of 3 I carried an intrinsic understanding that my physical form did not align with my true self.”
He was bullied in middle school by students, staff, and his mother who committed him to a mental health facility.
Tyrcha was Mr. Ramrod 2023 and credits the leather community’s support for him thriving and surviving.
“We know the truth. Our identities are a triumph, a testament to the human spirit, resilience, and the capacity for joy.”
For many, visibility is painful. One speaker shared the story of her father abusing her when she came out as trans, and how he eventually learned to accept and love her for who she is.
“For some of us, visibility came with pain. It came with rejection and it came with violence... Too often people see the strength. They see the confidence. They see the growth. But they don’t see what it took to get here.”
While sometimes moved to tears, the audience always gave applause and at least one standing ovation.
In addition to the speakers, an Italian buffet was served, and service organizations including CAN Community Health and SunServe were on hand to share their help.
And, underscoring the political persecution of the trans community, voter registration was available.
