Beech Acres Parenting Center joins in the celebration of International Transgender Day of Visibility on March 31. We honor the joy and strength of trans and non-binary people. 

The Transgender Day of Visibility was started by Rachel Crandall, of Transgender Michigan, in 2010.  She created this day in reaction to media coverage that focused mostly on transgender violence and wanted to create a day to celebrate transgender people and empower them to live honestly while acknowledging that discrimination prevents some from being visible.

“I am transgender and this doesn’t mean that I am unlovable.”

Lana Wachowski

Today there are more than 1.6 million transgender youth (13+) and adults in the US. As a parenting center, we want to create safe spaces for all people to be fully themselves and empower parents to raise healthy and happy children in line with their values. Science has shown us that there are certain behaviors that caregivers can engage in (regardless of beliefs) that can help their LGBTQ children thrive and certain behaviors that can cause harm.  

Here are some ways you can support and celebrate the people in your life who identify as transgender:

• Use their chosen name and pronoun that matches their gender identity. 
• Tell them you love them
• Tell them you are proud of them.
• Support their gender expression.
• Show affection to them when they share their identity with you.
• Welcome your child’s LGBTQ friends into your home.
• Educate yourself and gain accurate information about your child’s sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression.

Engaging in these behaviors can increase mental health outcomes, decrease depression, and lower rates of suicidality. 

“To all trans youth out there, I would like to say respect yourself and be proud of who you are. All human beings deserve equal treatment no matter their gender identity or sexuality. To be perceived as what you say you are is a basic right.”

Andrej Pejic

Check out these resources to learn more about how you can celebrate your transgender family and friends. At Beech Acres Parenting Center we believe the best way to help children is through their parents.

You have the strengths you need to raise capable, caring, contributing children and we’re here to help.

Additional Resources:

• Download our Fast Facts on Transgender
• Coming Out: A Guide For Parents
• Beech Acres Parenting Center Stands In Solidary With Transgender Youth
• Transgender, Non-Binary, and Gender Fluid Fast Facts For Parents
• LGBTQ Youth & Bullying