Durham Region recognizes Transgender Day of Visibility

The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham; and the Mayors of the Town of Ajax, Township of Brock, Municipality of Clarington, City of Oshawa, City of Pickering, Township of Scugog, Township of Uxbridge and Town of Whitby:

“March 31 is Transgender Day of Visibility, a day dedicated to recognizing the many achievements of transgender, Two-Spirit and non-binary people; and to celebrate their vibrancy and resilience.

Visibility has the potential to be truly transformative. Seeing others with shared experiences can help trans and gender-diverse people understand and affirm their own identities. It is a vital reminder that they are not alone.

Visibility can also be a tool for social change. Creating space for gender-diverse people to live openly and to tell their own stories can destigmatize trans identities and contribute to greater understanding of trans experiences. This understanding is essential to combating transphobia.

While we celebrate the greater representation of trans people and their contributions, we must also acknowledge that there is still much work to be done. Transgender, Two-Spirit and non-binary people continue to experience discrimination in employment, education, health care and housing. They are also often victims of bullying, harassment and violence.

We must commit to challenging transphobia and all forms of gender-based discrimination; dismantling the structures that perpetuate these inequities.

On this Transgender Day of Visibility, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a more equitable and inclusive community for all residents of Durham Region. We also ask that you join us in celebrating the strength and resilience of transgender, Two-Spirit and non-binary people, amplifying trans voices and uplifting trans communities, today and every day.”