Waking up on March 31st felt like waking up on my birthday.I brewed my coffee after showering, moisturized (I've been on a SKNMUSE high lately), and applied makeup. I danced around the kitchen in a pink shirt and leggings that hugged all the right curves, playfully chasing the dog around as my coffee scented the air. With about a half hour to spare before clocking into work, I grabbed my phone and checked on Instafeed. I smiled at every photo with a familiar face and video popping up with a glowing caption.It felt like the internet gave us a group hug for the first time in a while.Trans Day of Visibility (TDOV) is an annual celebration of trans bodies and voices. Far too often, we're inundated with trans sorrows, from harassment and anti-trans legislation to the murder of trans lives. Trans Day of Visibility is the time to give flowers to those who relish in their authentic skins and provide hope to those not yet there. In the past, I've seen the usual fixings: a post with the trans flag here or a statement on uplifting trans voices and employees there (and I've written a few myself when asked by employers).But this year felt different: in all the good ways.Sure, there were a few posts that feltstandard. Mainly from politicians, though I can at least take note of those who chose to acknowledge the day in some fashion compared to those who didn'tyes, even in "blue" communities. But from what I observedand Auntie tends to be on social a lot ("for research," if my boss is reading!)it looked and felt more intentional than in previous years. The content wasn't simply a nod to TDOV but amplified and uplifted trans voices and trans stories. Them shared a powerful video on the life of the late Sir Lady Java, a trans icon who lived at a time when trans could get arrested (oh, how times have changed.) Clips from the grand opening of the [[TS Madison Starter House, waiting for Lamont's article]] were broadcast on news outlets and shared via Stories by creators and celebrities. Video messages of support from Governor Pritzker of Illinois, award-winning screenwriter and producer Shonda Rhimes, and a heartfelt piece from Representative Sarah McBride, our nation's first out congresswoman, were shared to the masses. Surprisingly, even some corporations got into the mix. I didn't expect many, but I have to commend the likes of Sephora, which pushed all the way forward in championing trans bodies in this anti-DEI climate.It's more than just "good" marketing or publicity; it's showcasing that a company values its diverse staff. See on Instagram What was even more heartfelt was the content shared by trans netizens. They confidently shared their stories visibly and publicly at a time when anti-trans legislation and executive orders feel like they happen almost daily. It's these stories that help humanize an experience many people don't honestly know or understand, learning from some podcasters making a joke or a "trans trauma" show or film. The good fight carried on, the voices were heard, and the stories were shared on social media. But where do we go from here?Visibility is the park, not the whole fire. We can't live in the glow of one day. What we do in the days after matters even more.So, how do we turn social solidarity into community action?It begins by supporting trans-led organizations year-round. There are many, from the Advocates for Trans Equality to the Transgender Law Center, Trans Lifeline to the Trans Latin@ Coalition. A quick search can also help you provide references to the trans-centered community organizations right in your backyard. Checking in with the trans folks in your lives may seem like a no-brainer, but it does make a differencea quick phone call, a meetup at a coffee shop, or walking around and talking. And yes, even doing so for the ones who look like they have it all together. A show of support can do wonders.I will say it as loud as possible for the business leaders in the back: Hire. Trans. TALENT! In front of and behind the camera, not just for pride campaigns. Uplift and provide resources for trans staffers who want to climb the corporate ladder; provide space (physically or virtually) to discuss dealing with personal and professional journeys. And ensure DEI commitments are not just in practice but continue in policy.Speak up for trans youths at school boards. Support from them is vital at this time. We have to continue pushing back against those who deem books on trans lives as not valuable or needed in the classroom. Speak up at city council meetings to advocate for your trans neighbors, those in dire need of housing, employment, and medicine, and those who want to live in a safe community. Send letters to congressional leaders to advocate for trans lives, ensuring we all can exist in a nation that praises "unalienable rights" to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. And don't just read about our sorrows; read about our hopes and dreams. Support trans-centered stories and celebrate trans joy when published. We're not just visiblewe're visionaries. Visibility, when paired with action, becomes power. So, let's keep showing up for one another, dreaming aloud, and living, loving, and leading in the light.And to my trans nieces, nephews, and niblings: Auntie sees you and is always determined to ensure you have room to be visible.Stay visible,Your Lovable Trans AuntieYour Lovable Trans Auntie is our go-to advice column for lifes biggest (and messiest) questionslove, work, identity, and everything in between. With a signature blend of warmth, wit, and just the right amount of sass, Auntie offers readers a uniquely trans perspective thats as affirming as it is entertaining. Whether dishing out heartfelt wisdom, practical advice, or a little tough love, Auntie is here to remind everyone that theyre never alone on this journey.Got a crush but dont know how to tell them youre trans? Wondering how to deal with that coworker who still forgets your pronouns? Trying to navigate family drama, dating dilemmas, or just figuring out who you are? Aunties got you. Submit your questions to voices@equalpride.com.