BySenators Dhingra, C. Wilson, Riccelli, Pedersen, Hasegawa, Kauffman, Ramos, Krishnadasan, Liias, Stanford, Robinson, Saldaña, Cortes, Trudeau, Frame, Bateman, Wellman, Valdez, Slatter, Lovick, Orwall, Alvarado, Chapman, Conway, and Shewmake

WHEREAS, Washington state acknowledges and honors the rich tapestry of its people, recognizing that our diversity is a cornerstone of our collective strength and that Washington has a long-standing tradition of upholding the dignity, safety, and rights of the individual; and

WHEREAS, Washington state supports equal treatment and access for all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and believes in the values of equity and belonging for all people; and

WHEREAS, We affirm that transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse individuals have always been integral to our communities, contributing to our shared history, culture, and the continued advancement of equity, equality, and justice; and

WHEREAS, Throughout history, transgender and gender-diverse individuals have been present in all cultures and societies. Gender diversity has existed for all time; woven into the fabric of human existence across cultures, geographies, and generations. As we observe Transgender Day of Visibility, we affirm that transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse people have always been here, not as an exception to history, but as an essential and enduring part of it; and

WHEREAS, Washington state has been at the forefront of advancing transgender rights, enacting anti-discrimination protections, ensuring equal treatment in employment, housing, and public accommodations. These milestones reflect our state's continued commitment to ensuring transgender people can live openly, safely, and with dignity—fostering a sense of belonging and community in every space; and

WHEREAS, Transgender Day of Visibility aims to uplift and celebrate the lives and accomplishments of the transgender community, while also recognizing the resilience and strength it takes to thrive in the face of ongoing discrimination and systemic barriers; and

WHEREAS, Transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals deserve to have not only the barriers they face acknowledged but also their brilliance, creativity, joy, and leadership celebrated; and

WHEREAS, On this Transgender Day of Visibility, we celebrate the brilliance, creativity, and joy that transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse individuals bring to our communities. Their contributions enrich our culture, strengthen our economy, and enhance the social fabric, growing diversity, and prosperity of our state; and

WHEREAS, Washingtonians are encouraged to observe this day and uplift their transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse family, friends, neighbors, and community members, focusing on their strength, resilience, and accomplishments beyond the adversity and into the joy of their existence; and

WHEREAS, We acknowledge the challenges that persist in creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment for all. The Senate honors their identities, experiences, and the joy they bring to our collective community;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate honor Transgender Day of Visibility and acknowledge the contributions made by the transgender community to our state.