03/20/2024

Treaty 1 and Dakota Territory, Homeland of the Red River Metis, Winnipeg MB – MLA for Kirkfield Park, Logan Oxenham, introduced Bill 208, which recognizes March 31st as Two-Spirit and Transgender Day of Visibility.

“Two-Spirit and Transgender Day of Visibility means life, hope, possibilities and freedom for Two-Spirit, transgender, nonbinary and gender diverse communities,” said Logan Oxenham (he/him), NDP MLA for Kirkfield Park. “It takes a lot of strength to express one’s most authentic self. Today is about celebrating our existence, and like all Manitobans, we deserve love, respect and joy.”

Transgender Day of Visibility is internationally recognized and honours the courage and resilience of Two-Spirit, transgender and nonbinary people.

“Visibility is an integral part of representation,” said Ashley Gawne (she/they), a Peer Supporter from Trans Health Klinic. “This bill affirms our human rights to personhood, equality, dignity, and the right to freedom of expression. Trans rights are human rights.”

“One hundred years of settler-colonialism tried to erase our generational knowledge and queer Indigeneity,” said Charlie Eau (they/them), Project Manager from Trans Manitoba. “Today, in Treaty One territory, Two-Spirits, transgender and nonbinary folks are being seen. The Two-Spirit and Transgender Day of Visibility recognizes our joy, our resilience, our resistance, and the celebration of our lives.”