Transgender Day of Visibility 2026

Today, 31^st March, is International Transgender Day of Visibility. More than ever, it’s vital that the whole LGBT+ community and allies come together to celebrate and support trans people in the UK and beyond. 

According to data from the 2021 Census, the number of people in the Wakefield District who say their gender identity is different to the sex they were assigned at birth is around 0.5% - that’s in line with the national average.  

If that figure’s a little surprising, then it’s worth remembering that trans visibility can feel unsafe against a backdrop of increasing hostility in the UK. The chances are, if you think you don’t know any trans people, you probably do in one way or another.

Trans lives in the UK 

A recent report released by TransActual analysed responses from over 4,000 people to understand the challenges faced by trans people in the UK.  

Some key findings related to transphobia include: 

• 97% had experienced transphobia, with 84% experiencing at least one form of transphobia during 2024.  

• 82% had experienced transphobia online, while 80% reported transphobia from family. 71% had experienced it on the street, with 52% respondents saying they had experienced it on public transport.  

• Over the previous 12 months, social media and politicians had been the biggest source of transphobia (with 87% experiencing transphobia through those sources), while digital print media (84%) and print media (80%) were also high on the list.  

  
  

With all this in mind, it’s clear that trans visibility comes at a cost.  

How can you support trans people in Wakefield? 

It shouldn’t be left to trans people to make themselves visible if they’re putting themselves at risk by doing so. However, the rest of the community and our allies can offer them support in various ways.  

Here are a few things you can do to support trans people in Wakefield and beyond: 

1. Normalise sharing your own pronouns in email footers or group settings.  

2. Don’t assume the pronouns of someone you’re speaking to. Check if appropriate or simply take their lead.  

3. Wear trans-supportive badges, lanyards or other everyday items. 

4. Challenge transphobic comments and behaviour (if you feel safe to do so). 

5. Donate to, or otherwise support, organisations like LonGBoaT Wakefield who actively help trans people all year round.  

   
   

Transgender Day of Visibility matters because trans identities are still under attack. One day, hopefully, we’ll get to the point where the day can simply be a celebration of all the fantastic things trans people achieve in the UK and elsewhere.