These before-and-after photos from Trans Day of Visibility are full of so much joy

These before-and-after photos from Trans Day of Visibility are full of so much joy

Today, March 31st, the world celebrates International Transgender Day of Visibility. It’s a day to commemorate and support our peers who have come out as transgender. And because of this day, social media is full of inspiring photos of people sharing their transition process.

According to the Human Rights Campaign, transgender visibility has doubled since 2014. A 2016 survey revealed that 35% of likely voters in the U.S. “personally know or work with someone who is transgender.” In 2014, only 17% of likely voters answered the same. And while this doesn’t mean that trans people are experiencing less discrimination, these numbers show a positive step toward inclusivity.

“Transgender people come from all walks of life,” the Human Rights Campaign website reads. “We are your coworkers, family, and neighbors. We are 7-year-old children and we are 70-year-old grandparents. We are a diverse community representing all racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as faith backgrounds.”

While some people have posted today about their personal journeys and shared selfies, others are posting messages of support—all with the hashtag #TransDayOfVisibility or #TransIsBeautiful. Below are just some of the beautiful before-and-after photos people have posted about their journey.

Of course, trans visibility shouldn’t be limited to a single day of the year. Transgender people should be acknowledged, included, and respected every day. So let’s appreciate how far we’ve come as a nation—while continuing to work toward a better, more inclusive future for everyone.