Erie Celebrates International Transgender Day of Visibility

A walk was held around Perry Square in Erie Thursday, March 31, celebrating International Transgender Day of Visibility.

Transgender activist Rachel Crandel of Michigan organized the first Transgender Day of Visibility back in 2009. This was in reaction to the lack of transgender-focused events in the larger LGBTQ+ calendar. Up until 2009, the only well-known day was the Transgender Day of Remembrance which is held on November 20, mourning the murders of transgender people and did not acknowledge and celebrate the living members of the transgender community.

Crandel hoped Transgender Day of Visibility would raise awareness of the discrimination faced by transgender people worldwide, as well as be a celebration of their contributions to society.

For more information and to find more events hosted by TransFamily of NWPA, please visit their website transfamilynwpa.org or like and follow them on Facebook at TransFamily of NWPA.

About the Author

Rex Apps

Rex Apps (he/him) began his involvement with the newsletter by volunteering at the monthly folding/distribution parties. This then led him to contribute to the publication with writing and photos. Rex has previously served as an officer with the NW PA Pride Alliance from 2021 to 2024. He studied English at Gannon