March 31 marks Trans Day of Visibility (TDOV), a day dedicated to celebrating the resilience, contributions, and achievements of transgender and non-binary individuals. At the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), we recognize and honour our transgender students and employees, acknowledging their valuable presence in our community.
TDOV is not only a time to raise awareness of the challenges transgender individuals continue to face, including discrimination, barriers to employment, and a lack of societal understanding, but also an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments and listen to stories of transgender individuals in Canada.
BCIT is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment for all members of our diverse community.
Pride BCIT is a group, open to employees and students, that advocates for 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusivity and provides resources, events, and connection for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and allies. Pride BCIT is a group guided and supported by the BCIT Respect, Diversity, and Inclusion (RDI) office.
In collaboration with TransFocus, BCIT is increasing gender-inclusive washrooms across campus to ensure safe and accessible spaces for everyone.
BCIT also offers several resources and initiatives to support transgender students and employees, as well as learning for allies:
- Inclusive Policies: BCIT supports name and gender marker changes in institutional records, ensuring that transgender students and employees are recognized and affirmed.
- BCIT RDI resource: Supporting Gender Diverse Folks
- Free BCIT RDI online course: Relearning Gender
- Association Memberships: BCIT is a member of Pride at Work Canada and QueerTech.Learn more about how to get connected to their resources and benefits provided through the BCIT RDI office.
- Counselling and Wellness Services: Confidential counselling and mental health services are available for students who may need support navigating their gender identity and personal well-being. Employees can likewise access counselling supports through the EFAP provider.
We encourage everyone at BCIT to take time on Trans Day of Visibility to listen, learn, and show solidarity with the transgender community. Whether by educating oneself on trans issues, using correct names and pronouns, or advocating for trans rights, we can all contribute to a more inclusive world.
To learn more about Pride BCIT visit our website. Today and every day, we stand with our transgender and non-binary community members in visibility and pride.