By The Open Center

Today is International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV), an annual event celebrating the accomplishments and resilience of transgender and gender non-conforming people while raising awareness about the discrimination and violence they face and the work that still needs to be done to achieve transgender justice.

With more visibility comes more understanding. But it’s also important to take action. Right now, more and more states are proposing (and passing) anti-transgender legislation that affects transgender women and youth, their participation in sports and access to healthcare. Legislation like this sends a very strong message that transgender people are not welcome. This is not ok.

Here at The Open Center, we take a firm stance against discrimination and violence of any kind. As an urban center in the heart of New York City, we embrace the diversity of our community with love, acceptance and respect. Today and everyday, we will continue to listen, learn and educate ourselves so that we can support our transgender brothers and sisters.

If you would like to learn more about the proposed anti-transgender bills and ways to take action, please check out:
Legislation affecting trans rights across the country

Take Action against anti-trans legislation courtesy of Raquel Willis

And be sure to check out these transgender-owned businesses. These entrepreneurial businesses have turned their back on workplace discrimination for the opportunity to pursue their dreams. Let’s show them our support.