Trans Day of Visibility: Why It Matters & Where You Can Find Us This Year

We all want to live in a world where everyone is seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are. A world where trans and queer folks aren’t just tolerated but are celebrated. That’s the world we’re working towards every single day.

Unfortunately, the reality is that we’re still fighting for rights that other, more privileged communities take for granted. And while that fight can be exhausting, it does make a difference. One of the ways we push for change is through visibility- making our lives, experiences, and contributions impossible to ignore.

Visibility is powerful. It’s how we remind trans and queer people that they’re not alone. It’s how we shift cultural narratives and break down harmful stereotypes. And it’s how we pave the way for real change—whether in media, healthcare, policy, or everyday life. 

But it’s also important to acknowledge that being visible isn’t always safe for everyone. That’s why, at Origami Customs, we do our part to normalize trans and queer existence on a larger scale—to make visibility safer for others. (Read more about Why Visibility Matters!) 

This Trans Day of Visibility, we’re showing up in ways that feel meaningful to us: by building community, sharing knowledge, and advocating for real, tangible change. This year, we’re headed to the West Coast of Canada to Victoria BC, where we’ll be doing two in-person events! If you’re in the area, we’d love to see you at one (or both!) of these events.

Event #1: Tucking and Binding Workshop & Community Day

We’re thrilled to be bringing another Community Day to the other side of Canada! This time, we’re heading to Island Sexual Health, for an evening of education, connection, and support. 

We’re so excited to be partnering with this incredible organization. Our founder Rae actually grew up in Victoria, and used to utilize the services of Island Sexual Health as a young person! It’s amazing to be able to come full circle and offer support to such an incredible organization.

📍 What’s Happening?

Rae will be hosting a FREE Gaffing & Binding 101 workshop from 6-7 pm(ish). The workshop will cover the basics of gender-affirming apparel—how to choose, wear, and care for gaffs and binders safely and effectively. It’ll be followed by a Q&A session, where you can ask anything you’ve ever wanted to know about binding, tucking, or gender-affirming fashion.

Before and after the workshop, there’ll be time to hang out, meet new people, check out Origami Customs product demos, and get personalized measurement support from Rae. We’ll also have info about Island Sexual Health’s Gender-Affirming Apparel (GAA) Program, which helps provide affirming clothing to those who need it.

📆 Event Details

📍 Where: Island Sexual Health Community Health Center, 3960 Quadra St, Victoria, BC 

📅 When: Wednesday, March 26th, 5-8 PM (Workshop from 6-7pm)

🎟 Who: Open to all Two-Spirit, trans, and gender-diverse folks (especially those new to gender-affirming apparel).

💰Cost: FREE!

💡 Masks are mandatory for this event to keep our community safe.

If you’re in Victoria, come hang out, learn, and connect with us!

Event #2: Moving Trans History Forward Conference 

Visibility isn’t just about being seen—it’s about making sure we’re represented in the places that shape our lives, including workplaces, businesses, and healthcare spaces. That’s why Rae will be speaking at the Moving Trans History Forward Conference at the University of Victoria, sharing insights from 15 years of experience in gender-affirming care.

📍 What’s Happening?

The Moving Trans History Forward Conference is a global, multi-disciplinary, and intergenerational event held every two years by the University of Victoria’s Chair in Transgender Studies. This conference is one of the biggest of its kind, bringing together activists, academics, artists, and community members from around the world to talk about trans history and the issues shaping our future.

🎤 What’s the Talk About?

Rae’s talk, "Gender-Affirming Care in Trans-Integral Organizations," is all about how businesses, institutions, and organizations can better support trans and gender-diverse people. 

They’ll be covering:
✅ Best practices for trans-inclusive workplaces
✅ How organizations can support trans clientele & community members
✅ The intersection of policy, healthcare, and HR in gender-affirming care

📆 Event Details

📍 Where: University of Victoria, (Sngequ House, Meeting Room A) & online

 📅 When: Conference March 27-29 (Rae’s talk Saturday @ March 29th, 2:15 PM)

🎟 Who: Anyone interested in trans advocacy, policy, or gender-affirming healthcare.

💰Cost: Free for conference attendees, but anyone can watch in person by donation,if room is available (make sure to get there early!).

Why We Keep Showing Up

We won’t lie—being a highly visible trans brand isn’t always easy. But we believe that every trans and queer person deserves to feel good in their skin. We believe in a world where our community is celebrated, not just tolerated. And we believe that visibility, when done safely and intentionally, is one of the most powerful tools we have to create that world.

So, if you’re able to, join us at one of these events! If you can’t, consider supporting trans-led businesses, sharing trans-positive media, or simply showing up for the people in your life. Every little bit helps.

This Trans Day of Visibility, let’s remind each other: we are here, we are valuable, and we are not alone.