“There’s a special kind of power in showing up as yourself”, Jake Gibbons writes for International Transgender Day of Visibility, an annual celebration that takes place on 31 March.
For trans, non-binary and gender diverse people, being visible in the workplace, in our communities – just going about day-to-day life – can be an act of quiet, joyful resistance.
But let’s be honest. It’s not always easy.
Being visible also means being open to the kind of everyday challenges many people never even have to think about – like being misgendered, or brushed off with a half-laughing “Oh, I’ll never get used to they/them.” These moments might seem small to some. But for trans people, they can weigh heavy.
“Sorry, they.” That’s all it takes.
Misgendering isn’t just a slip of the tongue, it’s a reminder that the world still hasn’t fully caught up with who we are. It can happen anywhere: at the GP, in the office, at a staff meeting. It’s the sharp edge of being made to feel invisible, even when you’ve done nothing but exist.
But here’s the thing – it doesn’t take much to do better. A quick, genuine correction is all it takes. Not an apology tour. Not a dramatic pause. “She – sorry, they.” And move on. That one second of effort says “I see you. You matter.”
The raised eyebrows. The comments about “not looking non-binary.” The tired jokes that land like a slap. These might not be said with malice, but they build up. They make spaces feel harder to exist in. They make people feel like they have to justify who they are just to get through the day.
But like all learned behaviours – these can be unlearned too.
So, what can we all do?
You don’t have to be an expert to be a good ally. You just have to show up, pay attention, and be willing to learn. Here’s a few easy ways to start:
- Share your pronouns – in email signatures, at the start of meetings, when you introduce yourself. It sets a tone.
- Speak up when someone gets it wrong – if a colleague misgenders someone, a simple “They use [pronouns]” can make all the difference.
- Ask respectfully – if you’re unsure about someone’s pronouns or identity, it’s okay to ask. Just do it kindly and without assumptions.
And if you want to do more? UNISON offers training to help you feel confident in supporting trans, non-binary and gender diverse colleagues. Drop a line to your regional education team: unisonsweducation@unison.co.uk
There is joy in being seen.
Yes, there are challenges. But there is also joy. Being trans and visible means finding community, embracing who you are, and refusing to shrink yourself to make others comfortable.
On this Trans Day of Visibility, we celebrate that joy. We lift up trans voices. And we recommit to creating a world – and workplaces – where everyone is seen, respected, and safe.
Not just today. Every day.
Happy Trans Day of Visibility.
Photo Credit
© Emmet, Dark Star Photo
