Dear Loyola community,
March 31st of every year is recognized as Trans Day of Visibility (TDOV), an annual day of awareness and celebration around the world acknowledging trans and gender diverse rights, experiences, and stories. Today, and every day, Loyola University honors the victories and contributions of transgender and non-binary folx while being extremely mindful of the work that is still needed to protect trans lives.
While we recognize the many gains of the trans community, we must also acknowledge the anti-trans legislation that has sprung up across the country that seeks to limit access to healthcare, recreation, and pronoun usage to name but a few. We, as an institution that promotes cura personalis, must not stand back idly as rights are restricted and God’s children are vilified. Everyone deserves the right to live fully as themselves without fear.
For cisgender community members, show your compassion and solidarity by being a true ally. Being an ally means standing beside our trans family as misinformation and hate spread; showing respect at all times including using correct pronouns and not deadnaming trans folx; educating yourself about transgender issues and rights; and simply praying for the continued strength, health, and prosperity of this beautiful community as more battles are on the horizon.
To mark Trans Day of Visibility, I invite you to visit the One Loyola Multicultural Center to see our student-created vigil installation/solidarity display. Also, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., I will be in the Center to listen to any concerns or feedback about how we can better show up for our trans students, staff, and faculty. Today, let us make space and time to magnify our love and respect for the trans community.
In solidarity,
Dr. Kedrick Perry
Vice President of Equity and Inclusion
