Sussex Pride hosts event for Intl. Transgender Day of Visibility

DELMARVA. – On March 31st, for the last 15 years, trans individuals have celebrated Transgender Day of Visibility.

On the Eastern Shore, Sussex Pride hosted its first annual event, where board member, Jamie McKenna, said trans people were in an environment where they felt welcomed.

“Historically, the day that people know of is Trans Day of Remembrance, which is very somber. We thought it was important to have a day to recognize the positive aspects of our lives,” McKenna said.

Living in Delaware, McKenna said the First State has been making great strides to be more inclusive.

In an ever-changing society, she believes that coming together as a community is one of the first steps to making sure nobody feels left behind.

“Being trans can feel very lonely at times. Sometimes it can feel like you’re the only one in the world, and when we come together, it shows us that there are a lot of people that are living lives with similar issues, facing similar challenges and problems, and overcoming them,” McKenna said.

Wanting to break down barriers and cultivate progressive conversations, McKenna has hopes that all who attended the event know that there is a place for them at Sussex Pride.

“We’re hoping that they can take away some positivity and knowing that there’s a whole community out there willing to support them,” McKenna said.  “We’re also hoping to get their input and see how we can best organize and provide services to them.”