Transgender visbility

by Matthew Goodbred IV Leader Staff

On March 31, Aiden Ethington, former Alum and trans activist, spoke on the issues affecting transgender people for International Transgender Day of Visibility.

Transgender Day of Visibility started in 2009 as a movement to celebrate the lives and contributions of transgender people around the world.

In light of recent legislation passed around the United States that negatively affects transgender people, Ethington’s presentation focused mostly on these issues, as well as some of his own experiences.

This year has seen unprecedented amounts anti-LGBTQ+ legislation introduced around the country, with 380 bills introduced this year alone.

In comparison, there were around 300 bills of this nature introduced in 2022.

These bills range from bans and restrictions on drag, healthcare, gender-affirming care, school curriculums, participation in sports, and public accommodations.

Ethington used himself as an example of what having access to these forms of care can do for trans people.

He told a story of going swimming after receiving top surgery and how he finally could feel comfortable in his body.

“I felt like I went swimming for the first time,” he said.

Illinois has shown itself to be a friendlier state for transgender people, as it is one of only 8 states and US provinces that has not introduced any anti-LGBTQ+ legislation this year. Despite this, the growing anti-trans messaging causes many to worry for their future.

Ethington placed importance on loving yourself in a body that is yours and having supporting friends and family. For Ethington, he finds this in his son.

“He’s my number one fan,” he said.

Ethington encourages all trans people to find joy by taking pride in finding who you are.