The world is watching.
As the streets of Washington, D.C., prepare to swell with celebration for WorldPride this weekend, we're reminded that Pride was never just a party—it was and still is a protest. This year, we are marching not only in honor of those who paved the way but for the very survival of our communities, our rights, and our democracy.
As a Black trans man, a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces, and an advocate for equity and inclusion, I carry the weight of knowing what it means to fight for freedom both in and out of uniform. Today, I can say with complete conviction that transgender, nonbinary, and intersex (TGNBI) people are living in a state of emergency.
Not just in the United States but globally.
We are navigating an era where who we are, how we live, and what we deserve are being weaponized. From city halls to state legislatures, from school boards to courtrooms, the assault on our existence is strategic and unrelenting.
Let's be honest: These policies are about control. They are about fear. And they are intended to distract the public from the very real economic, environmental, and social crises we collectively face.
But here's what they didn't count on: us showing up loud, unified, and unafraid.
That's why this year's National Trans Visibility March (NTVM), held during WorldPride in the heart of our nation's capital, is more than symbolic. It is a full-force declaration of our existence, our resilience, and our right to shape our future. From June 5 to June 8, the NTVM will host a series of events centered on safety, empowerment, strategy, and joy, culminating in a march and rally for International Pride and National Trans Visibility.
We're building on this movement by working with national powerhouses and local grassroots organizations, as well as creatives, veterans, educators, and faith-based organizers, alongside youth and elders. This is not a moment but a movement grounded in the power of collective visibility.
But let's be clear: This is not just about Pride but about power. To live. To thrive. To lead. And to shape the future on our terms. To every transgender, nonbinary, and intersex person reading this, especially those who are tired, scared, or unsure of what tomorrow holds, know that you are not alone. We see you. We honor you. Your existence is not a burden; it's a blueprint. You are the dream of our ancestors and the hope of those still finding their way.
Whether you march with me in D.C. or stand in quiet resistance from afar, you are part of this movement.
We also recognize that showing up physically is not possible for everyone. For many, the fear is real and valid. At the National Trans Visibility March, safety is our top priority. We are taking intentional steps to ensure accessibility, safety, and care. This includes virtual participation options, wellness spaces, sensory-friendly areas, and security designed with our community's needs in mind. No one should be left behind—not in the streets, not online, not in spirit.
To our allies: this is your moment to act, not just with words, but with meaningful presence and partnership. Show up. Stand up. Strategize with us. March with us. Rally and fight with us. Not simply standing in solidarity but in shared responsibility. This is not a trans issue but a human rights issue. And democracy demands that we all defend one another's freedom as if it were our own.
If democracy truly means "for the people, by the people," then transgender, nonbinary, and intersex people are not a footnote. We are a vital part of that promise. We are not standing on the sidelines of history; we are shaping its course.
We are not just here to be seen. We are here to lead. And we are here to stay.
Voices is dedicated to featuring a wide range of inspiring personal stories and impactful opinions from the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. Visit Advocate.com/submit to learn more about submission guidelines. Views expressed in Voices stories are those of the guest writers, columnists, and editors, and do not directly represent the views of The Advocate or our parent company, equalpride.
