With so much negativity in the news, setting aside one day to spread joy and positivity can do wonders for one’s mental health. And that’s exactly what International Transgender Day of Visibility is all about.
Founded in 2009 by the American psychotherapist, Rachel Crandall-Crocker, International Transgender Day of Visibility was created to celebrate all the wonderful elements of trans life.
At the time, the only trans awareness day that Rachel knew of was Transgender Day of Remembrance on 20th November – a day dedicated to honouring the lives lost to anti-trans violence. And whilst Rachel recognised that we mustn’t forget the pain, prejudice and discrimination that many trans people have suffered and continue to suffer, we can celebrate their resilience and their achievements.
So, in-keeping with the uplifting spirit of the day, here are a few ways you can spread joy on 31st March:
- Remember, joy comes from within and it starts with you: Stand in front of the mirror, tell yourself all the qualities you love about yourself, appreciate and celebrate who you are.
- Tell your friends you love them: Reach out to trans friends and allies and tell them how much their friendship and support means to you. Meet up and tell them face-to-face or send a heartfelt, handwritten card.
- Share a random act of kindness: Spread joy to strangers by paying it forward – you could buy coffee for the person behind you in the queue, for example, or you could donate to a trans charity.
- Support a trans-friendly business: Support companies that are openly supportive of the trans community either by shopping there or by leaving a positive review online.
- Bring treats to work: If International Transgender Day of Visibility falls on a day that you have to work, bring treats to share with your colleagues, such as homemade cupcakes decorated in the trans pride flag colours of pastel pink, blue and white.
- Get inspired: There are so many trans icons that have done incredible things. Get inspired by reading a book or watching a documentary about them. Not sure where to start? Take a look at our blog, Top Trans Book Recommendations.
- Throw a party: Create a playlist of all your favourite trans music artists, prepare some snacks and invite your friends round for a fun and inclusive party.
- Get creative: Unleash your creative side by making art, music or poetry that reflects your personal journey and share it with the world.
Waterside Clinic welcomes you
Waterside Clinic is proud to provide supportive transgender and non-binary care within a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment. If you would like to find out more about our services, get in touch with our friendly team on 0131 202 5314, or email us on hello@waterside.clinic.