Title
Special Recognition - Proclamation Recognizing Transgender Day of Visibility
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Recognize March 31, 2026, as Transgender Day of Visibility.
Report
Issue:
Whether to recognize March 31, 2026, as Transgender Day of Visibility.
Staff Contact:
Melissa McKee, Assistant to the City Council, 360.753.8443
Presenter(s):
Aster Avardean, Co-founder of the OlympiaQueerFyrd
Sam Kellendy
Background and Analysis:
Transgender Day of Visibility was originally created to celebrate the achievements of trans people and promote the important works of trans artists, writers and community resources.
This year, there are legislative attacks against trans people across the country. Lawmakers are working to deny healthcare to both trans youth and adults. They are suppressing resources for trans students in schools. Some proposals protect students and faculty who bully trans youth. Others aim to criminalize parents who support their child’s healthcare needs. Some even target the ability of trans people to perform in public.
The City of Olympia honors and recognizes that transgender and non-binary community members deserve a safe place to not just survive, but to thrive
Climate Analysis:
Using the Climate Framework, it was determined this project does not involve buildings/energy use, transportation/land use, water/waste, or agriculture/forests/urban tree canopy.
Equity Analysis:
There are meaningful and significant disparities that transgender people face. This proclamation is a reminder for the City organization, the community, local businesses, organizations to support the powerful work and creations of trans people and to support trans people in a time of increasing denial of basic human rights.
Financial Impact:
There is no financial impact related to this item.
Options:
1. Recognize March 31, 2026, as Transgender Day of Visibility.
2. Do not recognize March 31, 2026, as Transgender Day of Visibility.
3. Recognize the Transgender Day of Visibility at another time.
Attachments:
Proclamation