As LGBTQ+ organisation Stonewall says:
"It also provides an opportunity for trans and non-binary people to feel seen through positive and realistic representation – and for allies to learn more about how they can stand in solidarity. Visibility is crucial. Without exposure to others who think, feel, and live in a similar way to us – especially for those who exist outside of society’s norms – we can feel lost and alone. Visibility allows community to bloom, and for people with shared lived experiences to form bonds across borders."
The first International Transgender Day of Visibility was held on March 31, 2009. The day was founded by US-based transgender activist Rachel Crandall 2009 as a reaction to the lack of LGBT recognition of transgender people, citing the frustration that the only well-known transgender-centred day was the Transgender Day of Remembrance which mourned the murders of transgender people, but did not acknowledge and celebrate living members of the transgender community.
We encourage all staff and students to get involved with Trans Day of Visibility. Ask questions, learn all that you can, and take meaningful action to become an ally and show your support, not only during this month, but always.
Events:
My story to tell - Police Constable Toby George, Hertfordshire Constabulary
Tuesday 28 March, 12.00 - 13.00, Online via MS Teams
As part of celebrating Trans Day of Visibility at Herts, please join this free online lunchtime session where local Hertfordshire Constabulary Police Constable Toby George will share their own personal story.
As a child, Toby dreamed of becoming a police officer. He studied for a BSc Policing with Criminal Investigation at Canterbury Christ Church University which included experiencing the practical side of policing with trips to Northern Ireland and the Netherlands. He then undertook an MSc by research in Criminal Justice, focusing on the implementation of joint enterprise within the UK. He joined Hertfordshire Constabulary in August 2021 and currently works on the Safer Neighbourhood Team in St Albans. He’s a member of the LGBT+ Police Network and runs Hertfordshire’s LGBT+ Liaison Officer Course.