ANNAPOLIS, MD —  Governor Wes Moore today proclaimed March 31, 2023 as International Transgender Day of Visibility in Maryland. Governor Moore is the first governor in Maryland history to commemorate the day in the state.

“People who have the courage to demand visibility, even after facing hardship —in some cases, after facing violence and poverty—they represent the very best of Maryland. We need to elevate their stories, embrace their courage, and celebrate their humanity,” said Governor Moore. “By signing this proclamation, we are taking a step forward. And I look forward to working with all of you to continue that march in the years to come.”

International Transgender Day of Visibility celebrates the accomplishments of transgender, gender diverse, nonbinary, and two-spirit people while raising awareness of the work that remains to achieve trans justice. According to the Maryland Center for Economic Policy, an estimated 94,000 residents in Maryland identify as transgender or nonbinary.

Lt. Governor Aruna Miller, Maryland Secretary of State Susan C. Lee, members of the Maryland Commission on LGBTQ Affairs, members of the newly-formed LGBTQ+ Legislative Caucus, and transgender community members and advocates from across the state joined Governor Moore for the signing ceremony at the State House.

“Today, as we recognize International Transgender Day of Visibility for the first time in state history, Governor Moore and I join the LGBTQIA+ community across the state in celebrating trans joy, trans pride, and trans love,” said Lieutenant Governor Miller.  “To all transgender Marylanders: Governor Moore and I will fight to ensure you will not be erased for simply embracing your lived identity. We will fight for trans Marylanders to be their authentic selves, today and every day.”

“Visibility and awareness are foundational for expanding dignity for all Marylanders,” said Secretary of State Lee. “As the Governor said in his remarks today, we want our children to know they are perfect as they are.”

On Thursday, the Maryland General Assembly passed the Trans Health Equity Act. The legislation would require Maryland Medicaid to provide additional coverage for additional gender-affirming treatments, beginning January 1, 2024. Governor Moore will sign the legislation into law.