Monday marks the annual Transgender Day of Visibility, which honors transgender, nonbinary and gender-expansive people while drawing attention to the high levels of poverty, discrimination and violence the community faces globally.
This year’s TDOV follows President Donald Trump’s recent executive orders that restrict the rights of transgender Americans — impacting their ability to serve in the military, participate in school sports and obtain government documentation, including passports that reflect their gender identity.
Gavin Newsom talks trans women in sports with Charlie Kirk
It also comes in the wake of comments by California Gov. Gavin Newsom calling the participation of transgender women in women’s sports “deeply unfair,” drawing criticism from some LGBTQ+ advocates.
Newsom, a longtime proponent of LGBTQ+ inclusivity, expressed the view during a interview with conservative commentator Charlie Kirk during the first episode of the governor’s new podcast, “This is Gavin Newsom,” earlier this month.
Asked by Kirk whether he would support a policy of “no men in female sports,” Newsom agreed.
“I think it’s an issue of fairness. I completely agree with you on that,” he said. “It’s deeply unfair.”
“I revere sports. The issue of fairness is completely legit,” Newsom continued. “That’s easy to call out, the unfairness of that. There’s also a humility and grace that these poor people are more likely to commit suicide, have anxiety and depression, and the way that people talk down to vulnerable communities is an issue that I have a hard time with as well.”
Newsom said he also recognized that the inclusion of trans women in sports was politically unpopular across the nation.
“We’re getting crushed on it. Crushed,” he said.
Equality California ‘profoundly disappointed’ by Newsom
The LGBTQ+ advocacy organization Equality California took issue with Newsom’s comments.
Executive Director Tony Hoang issued a statement in which he said the group was “profoundly disappointed and angered” by the governor’s statements.
“Right now, transgender youth, their families, their doctors, and their teachers are facing unprecedented attacks from extremist politicians who want to eviscerate their civil rights and erase them from public life,” he said. “In this moment of crisis, they need leaders who will unequivocally fight for them. Instead of standing strong, the Governor has added to the heartbreak and fear caused by the relentless barrage of hate from the Trump Administration.”
How and when did Trans Visibility Day begin?
Rachel Crandall Crocker, a psychologist and executive director of the nonprofit group Transgender Michigan, created the TDOV initiative in 2010. She expressed her amazement at the level of participation the day received in an interview with National Public Radio last year: “I wasn’t expecting to start an international movement.”
Here’s what to know about Trans Visibility Day and trans people who have made history.
This TDOV, celebrate trans people who continue to make history
While transgender and nonbinary individuals have been the targets of political attacks, there have also been moments of celebration, particularly among celebrities, politicians and performers.
A snapshot of trans people who recently made history include:
What’s the purpose of Transgender Day of Visibility 2025?
A representative from the national advocacy group The Trevor Project told USA TODAY that while the day aims to support the community, many transgender people have safety concerns, and visibility should not be forced upon anyone.
“This day should also remind people that ‘visible’ does not mean ‘equal,’” explained Nova Bright, head of internal training, learning and development at The Trevor Project. “We must continue working toward a country full of people that understands transgender people are our neighbors, our family members, and our friends; trans people want to simply be able to go about their daily lives, just like anyone else.”
The national crisis lifeline for LGBTQ+ young people reminds trans individuals that it’s OK to celebrate acts of visibility, whether they are large or small, including:
“As we honor Transgender Day of Visibility, one thing remains abundantly clear: Trans people are here, trans people have always been here, and they are not going anywhere,” Trevor Project CEO Jaymes Black said. “To all trans young people, I want you to know: You are never alone.”
Contributing: Kinsey Crowley, Asha C. Gilbert, Julia Gomez, Sara M. Moniuszko, David Oliver, Edward Segarra, and Xerxes Wilson
Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY’s NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia – the 757. Email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Today is Transgender Day of Visibility 2025 — a day to raise awareness of trans people
Reporting by Saleen Martin, Fernando Cervantes Jr. and Brian Day, USA TODAY NETWORK / Palm Springs Desert Sun
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
