Transgender day: celebrating visibility amidst tough times
March 31st isn't just another day on our calendars; it marks Transgender Day Visibility, a time when we spotlight and celebrate trans folks around us. But while it should be a moment filled with joy and acknowledgment, it's a bit more complicated these days. The transgender community has been up against some pretty heavy political hurdles recently. From policies banning transgender athletes from competing, restrictions on gender-affirming healthcare, and cuts in federal support, these setbacks, particularly stemming from Trump-era regulations, continue creating challenges.
Safe haven: a light in stormy weather
In times like these, Safe Haven in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., shines bright. Under Executive Director Iya Dammons, this organization isn't just offering a roof over heads—it provides a lifeline. From HIV prevention efforts and holistic support, they're a key player in advocating and uplifting our LGBTQ community.
Even with federal funding being slashed, local governments haven't backed down. Baltimore and D.C.'s mayoral offices, with critical involvement from D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser's Office on LGBTQ Affairs, are stepping up. They're bridging those financial gaps, ensuring no interruption in essential services.
"Things may seem bleak, but our commitment won't waver," Dammons affirms. Thanks largely due local backing, Safe Haven continues its invaluable work in both major cities, keeping vital programs alive and well.
Offering comprehensive LGBTQ support
Safe Haven goes above and beyond when it comes caring that are often overlooked. Focusing particularly on Black trans women who face immense challenges, they offer harm reduction, advocacy, and community outreach, all designed empower and elevate lives.
Their services span from providing medical connections like HIV testing and PrEP, offering a drop-in center, managing cases, supporting with housing services, and more. It creates a safe, non-judgmental zone where folks can really blossom.
We will not be erased: embracing resilience
In pushing back against these political battles, Dammons and her crew at Safe Haven have adopted “We Will Not Be Erased” as their rallying cry. Soon, you'll see this powerful slogan in a new street mural in Baltimore, previewing March 29.
This comes after their impactful “Black Trans Lives Matter” mural on Charles Street, also led by Dammons. The upcoming artwork isn't just paint on a wall; it stands loud and proud against any attempts silence transgender voices, serving as a testament ongoing fight acceptance and rights.
Honoring leadership and community strength
For her remarkable work, Baltimore celebrated Dammons by naming a street after her—“Iya Dammons Way”—back in June 2024. It's a fitting tribute recognizing her leadership and immense impact Safe Haven has had on community. As they look towards expanding in Baltimore, Safe Haven's poised become one country's largest trans-led LGBTQ nonprofits.
Reflecting financial challenges, Dammons couldn't hide disappointment over Mayor Bowser's decision remove D.C.'s Black Lives Matter mural under federal pressure. She continues pushing back, urging stronger resistance against anti-trans policies.
Standing firm against oppression
For Iya Dammons, a Black trans woman, these policies aren't just lines on paper—they're personal. "What they've taken from my clients and community, they've taken from me,” she passionately points out. The drive stand firm stay unfazed, as community remains united against these adversities.
With Trans Day Visibility around corner, that sentiment's clear. Planned picnics, rallies, webinars all create space celebrate, connect, advocate.
"This isn't just what we do, it's who we are," Dammons eloquent emphasizes. The journey goes on with fierce intent ensure trans lives get rightful visibility, respect, and value.
Be part upcoming Trans Day visibility events
Don't miss out—join these events support trans community:
- March 30: Trans Day Vision picnic and rally from 1-5 p.m. at Malcolm X Park.
- March 31: Trans Day Visibility rally and reception from 4-7 p.m. at 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, Md.
- March 31: ‘Building Power and Solidarity Across Generations' webinar starting 7 p.m. EST.
- March 31: A rally featuring members Congress at 4 p.m. on National Mall, D.C.
Offering comprehensive LGBTQ support
Safe Haven goes above and beyond when it comes caring that are often overlooked. Focusing particularly on Black trans women who face immense challenges, they offer harm reduction, advocacy, and community outreach, all designed empower and elevate lives.
Their services span from providing medical connections like HIV testing and PrEP, offering a drop-in center, managing cases, supporting with housing services, and more. It creates a safe, non-judgmental zone where folks can really blossom.
We will not be erased: embracing resilience
In pushing back against these political battles, Dammons and her crew at Safe Haven have adopted “We Will Not Be Erased” as their rallying cry. Soon, you'll see this powerful slogan in a new street mural in Baltimore, previewing March 29.
This comes after their impactful “Black Trans Lives Matter” mural on Charles Street, also led by Dammons. The upcoming artwork isn't just paint on a wall; it stands loud and proud against any attempts silence transgender voices, serving as a testament ongoing fight acceptance and rights.
Honoring leadership and community strength
For her remarkable work, Baltimore celebrated Dammons by naming a street after her—“Iya Dammons Way”—back in June 2024. It's a fitting tribute recognizing her leadership and immense impact Safe Haven has had on community. As they look towards expanding in Baltimore, Safe Haven's poised become one country's largest trans-led LGBTQ nonprofits.
Reflecting financial challenges, Dammons couldn't hide disappointment over Mayor Bowser's decision remove D.C.'s Black Lives Matter mural under federal pressure. She continues pushing back, urging stronger resistance against anti-trans policies.
Standing firm against oppression
For Iya Dammons, a Black trans woman, these policies aren't just lines on paper—they're personal. "What they've taken from my clients and community, they've taken from me,” she passionately points out. The drive stand firm stay unfazed, as community remains united against these adversities.
With Trans Day Visibility around corner, that sentiment's clear. Planned picnics, rallies, webinars all create space celebrate, connect, advocate.
"This isn't just what we do, it's who we are," Dammons eloquent emphasizes. The journey goes on with fierce intent ensure trans lives get rightful visibility, respect, and value.
Be part upcoming Trans Day visibility events
Don't miss out—join these events support trans community:
- March 30: Trans Day Vision picnic and rally from 1-5 p.m. at Malcolm X Park.
- March 31: Trans Day Visibility rally and reception from 4-7 p.m. at 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, Md.
- March 31: ‘Building Power and Solidarity Across Generations' webinar starting 7 p.m. EST.
- March 31: A rally featuring members Congress at 4 p.m. on National Mall, D.C.
Honoring leadership and community strength
For her remarkable work, Baltimore celebrated Dammons by naming a street after her—“Iya Dammons Way”—back in June 2024. It's a fitting tribute recognizing her leadership and immense impact Safe Haven has had on community. As they look towards expanding in Baltimore, Safe Haven's poised become one country's largest trans-led LGBTQ nonprofits.
Reflecting financial challenges, Dammons couldn't hide disappointment over Mayor Bowser's decision remove D.C.'s Black Lives Matter mural under federal pressure. She continues pushing back, urging stronger resistance against anti-trans policies.
Standing firm against oppression
For Iya Dammons, a Black trans woman, these policies aren't just lines on paper—they're personal. "What they've taken from my clients and community, they've taken from me,” she passionately points out. The drive stand firm stay unfazed, as community remains united against these adversities.
With Trans Day Visibility around corner, that sentiment's clear. Planned picnics, rallies, webinars all create space celebrate, connect, advocate.
"This isn't just what we do, it's who we are," Dammons eloquent emphasizes. The journey goes on with fierce intent ensure trans lives get rightful visibility, respect, and value.
Be part upcoming Trans Day visibility events
Don't miss out—join these events support trans community:
- March 30: Trans Day Vision picnic and rally from 1-5 p.m. at Malcolm X Park.
- March 31: Trans Day Visibility rally and reception from 4-7 p.m. at 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, Md.
- March 31: ‘Building Power and Solidarity Across Generations' webinar starting 7 p.m. EST.
- March 31: A rally featuring members Congress at 4 p.m. on National Mall, D.C.
Be part upcoming Trans Day visibility events Don't miss out—join these events support trans community: - March 30: Trans Day Vision picnic and rally from 1-5 p.m. at Malcolm X Park. - March 31: Trans Day Visibility rally and reception from 4-7 p.m. at 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, Md. - March 31: ‘Building Power and Solidarity Across Generations' webinar starting 7 p.m. EST. - March 31: A rally featuring members Congress at 4 p.m. on National Mall, D.C.
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