I observe this day because I remain appalled by any society that considers itself civilized, but can not or will not refrain from actions that are bullying and derogatory towards anyone on the basis of their gender identification, from the outrageous acts of violence including beatings, torture and murder--to the casual use of derogatory language to define those who must struggle to define themselves in world where a gendered perception is imposed on individuals without respects to human choice.
The right to live, work, marry (or refrain from marriage), be called by one's preferred name and pronouns, to come and go unmolested, to not be challenged over one's identity in public places--the rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, in other words, should not be abridged by bigotry and hatred. And yet everywhere, they are. It is necessary for injustice to be recognized so that it can be addressed, and this day serves as one reminder to speak out for those who can--because of those who were silenced.
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