Next week, the University of Windsor Pride Committee will mark Transgender Day of Visibility with a campaign on social media, honouring the trans community and engaging in education and advocacy on its behalf.

First celebrated on March 31, 2009, the day is an annual, international event honouring living members of the trans community while highlighting systemic barriers they confront.

“Some folks may recall previous celebrations on campus for Trans Day of Remembrance in November, which honours the lives lost to anti-trans violence,” says UWinPride co-chair Ashlyne O’Neil. “Through our campaign for Trans Day of Visibility, though, we aim to raise awareness about the ways in which trans folks must navigate our society today, as well as to celebrate their lives, empower them to live authentically, and to enable active allyship.”

The entire week leading up to the Transgender Day of Visibility will be a showcase of free Open Educational Resources shared daily on @UWinPride's Instagram platform and website. The celebration will kick off on Monday, March 24, with the raising of the trans flag at 11:45 a.m. on the west side of Chrysler Hall Tower. All are welcome to join in this celebration.

While this campaign serves as a dedicated moment of visibility and advocacy, its impact is intended to extend far beyond a single week. Through ongoing education, dialogue, and support, UWinPride and the University community are dedicated to creating a campus environment where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to live authentically.

Visit the UWinPride website for more information about upcoming events, including a wellness-themed Open Mic Coffee House night, and an opportunity to be featured on UWinPride’s Instagram as a visible member of the UWindsor 2SLGBTQIA+ community.