ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Jayapal marks Trans Day of Visibility with resolution
Jayapal's bill was introduced on the same day as a controversial Trans rights bill was assented to by Indian President Droupadi Murmu.
-
Jeffin T. Kaleekal - Wed, 01, Apr 2026
- 02:26 EDT
- 18
Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal / Wikimedia commons
Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, co-chair of the Transgender Equality Task Force, introduced legislation to commemorate Transgender Day of Visibility.
Transgender Day of Visibility is observed annually on March 31 to celebrate the lives, achievements, and contributions of transgender and gender-diverse people while raising awareness of the discrimination and challenges they face.
The day was founded in 2009 by transgender activist Rachel Crandall-Crocker as a counterpart to Transgender Day of Remembrance, aiming to focus on positive visibility rather than solely on violence and loss.
The resolution seeks to “recognize the many achievements and progress made by people in the transgender and gender non-conforming communities, and affirm their human rights,” according to the Congressional Equality Caucus.
ALSO READ: With rage and humor, WorldPride rally takes aim at Trump in Washington
Highlighting the significance of the resolution, Jayapal said in a statement, “On Trans Day of Visibility, first and foremost, I stand with our trans loved ones.”
Accusing the Trump administration of undermining transgender rights, Jayapal said, “As Trump and Republicans continue their cruel and baseless attacks on the trans community, we must support our trans neighbors and work to protect their right to safety, respect, visibility, and equality under the law.”
“Trans rights are human rights, and we must continue working to ensure that every person can live authentically as themselves. To trans people across this country: I see you, I hear you, and I will never stop fighting for you,” she added.
The resolution is backed by Democratic Reps. Sara Jacobs and Mark Takano and Sen. Brian Schatz.
“Recognizing Trans Day of Visibility is about more than visibility — it’s about affirming that trans people belong,” said Caius Willingham, senior policy analyst at Advocates for Trans Equality.
“Thanks to the leadership of Congresswoman Jacobs, Senator Schatz, and Representatives Jayapal and Takano, this resolution makes clear that even in the face of growing attacks, our communities will continue to be seen, heard, and protected,” Willingham added.
The day also coincided with developments in India that drew criticism from transgender rights activists. On March 31, India’s president gave assent to a Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill.
Activists said the law narrows the definition of a transgender person, removes provisions for self-identification, and introduces mandatory medical certification, raising concerns about its impact on transgender rights.
Discover more stories on New India Abroad.
Related
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
Video
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login