As we reach the end of march, we welcome the 12th annual International Transgender Day of Visibility, held on the 31st March celebrating all transgender and non-binary people around the world. This day seeks to bring trans people into the limelight, to show their struggles and achievements, and to support their inclusion in all things.
Sport, for example, has commonly had arguments about the inclusion of trans men and women in teams or sports. Lia Thomas, a trans woman swimmer, has recently been front and centre of this and yet has not let that affect her motivation, saying things such as “I don’t look into the negativity and the hate” and “I am here to swim”. This shows the courage and determination of trans athletes, despite constant attacks from the public and media.
There are many other trans athletes left unknown to the general public such as Timothy LeDuc, the first openly nonbinary person to compete in the Winter Olympics in 2022, or Chris Mosier, the first trans man and athlete to represent the United States internationally – competing at the men’s sprint duathlon in 2015. This is why Trans Day of Visibility is so important, to highlight the stories of great trans athletes which often go unheard.
These individuals are notable examples of how much trans athletes can achieve, despite the many obstacles they have to overcome. Everyone should be appreciated for their individuality, and no one should feel unnoticed and left out because of that. As always, our motto of ‘inclusion for all’ stands, particularly on a day such as this. No matter your gender identity or sexual orientation, there will always be a place for you at Defiant Sports.
As always, stay Defiant!
#TeamDefiant