Raising your own understanding of the lives and experiences of the Trans community can be as simple as searching Google to read through stories and articles. You will find most stories and articles may sadly focus on discrimination and violence towards this community, but there are also wonderful and inspirational stories out there of people who have been able to raise awareness and help lower the stigma attached to being part of the trans or non-binary community.
Use what you have learnt to speak to others and help raise their awareness and understanding.
If you find a story or article you feel helps with lowering stigma and celebrating our community then share it with the hashtag #TransgenderDayOfVisibility
I recently attended an event in London called The Magic Theatre Ball, which is an event for the entire LGBTQ+ community and allies. However, around 80% of those in attendance were from the trans community. I spent the evening talking with many different people and they were very open about their life experiences and what these events mean to them because they provide a sense of belonging.
Events like The Magic Theatre Ball offer a place for them to feel comfortable and safe to be themselves and although this is extremely positive, it also shines a much needed light on the fact that many people from the community do not feel this way in their everyday lives and still face prejudice, discrimination and ignorance.
It’s important to never assume that you know all that you can about any community.
A page I found very informative is below, it helps explore a few common misconceptions of trans people and provides commonly asked questions and answers. I think it is a great starting block to build more understanding of this diverse community. Please take the time to have a look.
https://www.stonewall.org.uk/truth-about-trans