Written by Jem Knight, a Third year BA History student
Today is Transgender day of Visibility!
It is a day to celebrate and to reflect for transgender and non-binary people.
This year’s theme is I Am Enough and reflects the fact that trans and non-binary people are just enough as they are and should celebrate themselves rather then pushing themselves to be what they think they should be by wider societies standards. This year, as with every TDoV, is a time to be proud of the trans community, just as they are!
The theme and campaign of I Am Enough aims to provide affirmation and empowerment for trans and non-binary people to help people feel comfortable and proud of who they are and provide even more visibility for trans and non-binary identities. It is hard to feel pride sometimes, to feel like you are enough, and it is especially hard when you don’t feel as if your body aligns with your gender identity. this campaign aims empower trans and non-binary people and help more of us feel like we are enough.
There have been big strides forward for the transgender community over the last few decades and a big increase in visibility and protections for trans people, but it cannot be denied that there are still many issues facing the trans community that need to be addressed, challenged, and changed to improve the lives of all transgender and non-binary people and to make sure that they feel like they are enough.
In the UK, there are massively long waiting times for treatment due to a stretched NHS service and this waiting time can be unbearable if you are a trans or non-binary person looking for help and support. As a trans person myself, I understand the pain of waiting years to see a doctor and know that we must support each other on our journeys through these long waiting times so that we aren’t alone in these periods of struggle. Talk to your trans friends, see how they are doing and make sure they know that they are enough.
There has also been a rise in trans exclusionary LGB movements as well in recent times, so it is imperative that we stand together and show that we are part of the LGBTQ+ community and show solidarity and kindness to all. More must be done to help trans and non-binary people today as there cannot be equality for the LGBTQ+ community if the T is left behind! We must stand together and make it clear that trans and non-binary people are enough, just as they are.
How can I help my trans and non-binary friends to feel like they are enough?
Here are three simple things:
1. Listen to them! Hear what they are feeling and support them. Just to feel like you are not alone is such a big thing and really helps to feel validated.
2. Get educated! If you don’t know much (or anything, that’s okay!) then educate yourself on trans and non-binary issues. There are thousands of resources online or you can go to the library and have a look through the books they have on offer (they are on the first floor!).
3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! If you are a friend who wants to know more, I can assure you that just politely asking really isn’t an issue, provided you are asking out of genuine care and support for your friend. Unsure of your friends’ pronouns? Just ask! Its better to ask once then be unsure for ages and potentially hurt or invalidate your friend.
For all trans and non-binary people, I hope that you have a happy Transgender Day of Visibility.
Whether you are out to everyone or not.
Whether you seek medical intervention or not.
Whether you change your name or not.
I am enough
You are enough
We are all enough
To learn more about the #IAmEnough campaign go to the LGBT Foundation’s Webpage