Trans Day of Visibility 2024: A Celebration of Excellence, Power, and Unity

On March 31, hundreds gathered in the heart of Honolulu to celebrate Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV)—an annual event dedicated to honoring the courage, resilience, and brilliance of our transgender and gender-expansive community. First established in 2009 by activist Rachel Crandall-Crocker, TDOV was created to recognize and uplift the living stories of trans people—countering the media’s frequent focus on violence and loss with a celebration of life, identity, and joy.

This year, Hawaiʻi showed up in full force. Our day began with an energetic sign-waving event at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol, where a sea of supportive faces came together to wave flags, hold signs, and stand in solidarity. From there, the crowd marched over to Capitol Modern (the Hawaiʻi State Art Museum) for a powerful rally that brought together art, advocacy, and aloha.

We were honored to welcome speakers including Representative Adrian Tam and Hawaiʻi’s first openly transgender legislator, Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto, whose words reminded us all that representation matters—and that visibility is power. The event also featured heartfelt performances by trans and gender-diverse community members, showcasing Hawaiʻi’s homegrown trans excellence in all its beauty and strength.

In a time when anti-trans rhetoric is spreading across the country, our gathering was more than just a celebration—it was a declaration. A declaration that Hawaiʻi stands for inclusion, that our trans ʻohana will not be erased, and that unity is our greatest strength in moments of uncertainty.

Mahalo to everyone who showed up, spoke out, and stood tall. Together, we continue to build a Hawaiʻi where every gender identity is not only seen—but celebrated.