Transgender Day of Visibility is March 31 — but the Mazzoni Center has far more than a day’s worth of activities planned.
Hosted by trans and non-binary staff and allies, the weeklong celebration kicks off March 26 with a Chosen Family Dinner at the center, 1348 Bainbridge St.
“So often, we hear about the violence and discrimination directed at our trans brothers and sisters, but this event was meant to show that this community is resilient and vibrant, and successful living their truth,” said Mazzoni spokesperson Larry Benjamin. “And that is worthy of celebration.”
Thus, the Trans Week of Visibility will feature seven celebratory events, including a birthday party, a discussion panel and a flag-raising ceremony.
“Trans Week of Visibility is for trans and non-binary folks, by trans and non-binary folks,” said event co-chair Joniece Greer. “It’s a time we can celebrate being ourselves and recognize those within our community who have created social change and made an impact on the world, whether past, present or future.”
Riley Marcano, another event co-chair, noted the importance of recognizing the community’s history.
“This week is in celebration of the resilient icons of our past, the flourishing community members of our present and the trans youth of our future,” said Marcano.
The trans birthday party will celebrate some of these milestones on March 27, 6-8:30 p.m. On March 28, same time, local trans community leaders will host a panel to discuss creating change and living authentically.
On March 29, participants will march from the Mazzoni Center to City Hall for the trans flag-raising ceremony, 1-2 p.m. From 6-8:30 p.m. that day, various workshops on self-care, such as yoga and art, will be offered.
On March 30, a student leadership board will hold a workshop on the intersectionality of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as the importance of being a trans ally, from 4-7 p.m. Then at 7, a sisterly love workshop will address college admissions and employment preparedness for trans women of color.
The weeklong celebration will wrap up March 31 with a trans and non-binary dance party, 8-11 p.m.
“When experiencing oppression and discrimination at every turn, it’s vitally important to share our hopes, dreams and successes,” said Airen McClure, an event committee member.
For more information, visit www.transPHL.org or www.mazzonicenter.org.