Trans Awareness Week Resources
Transgender Awareness Week, observed November 13 to November 19, is a one-week celebration leading up to the Transgender Day of Remembrance (November 20), which memorializes victims of transphobic violence.
Awareness is a great first step, but is only a first step to eliminating transphobia. After you are aware trans people exist (which would be difficult not to know, given how much news coverage & policymaking is devoted to our existence right now), it is important to keep learning.
Awareness paired with action is a powerful way to become a better ally to transgender people.
Clear, practical, everyday ways to disrupt transphobia
Here are 6 clear, practical, everyday tips to disrupt transphobia, whether it shows up in conversations, institutions, or internalized beliefs. These tips work for allies, leaders, and anyone who wants to shift culture:
1. Interrupt misinformation immediately and calmly
Transphobia thrives on myths and misinformation. You don’t need to be an expert to intervene; just pause the conversation and say: “Actually, that’s not accurate. Here’s what we know…” Then offer a simple fact or redirect to credible sources. Consistent myth-busting, especially delivered calmly, shifts norms over time.
2. Normalize pronouns and gender diversity everywhere
Share your pronouns in intros, email signatures, or bios without making it a big deal. This signals that gender diversity is expected, not exceptional. It also removes the spotlight from trans and nonbinary people and places it on shared practice.
3. Redirect conversations from identity debates to real-world impact
Don’t get stuck arguing about “beliefs.” Refocus on how policies, language, and actions affect real people.
For example: “Let’s talk about what actually helps keep people safe and supported.”
This keeps the conversation grounded, human, and more difficult to derail.
4. Challenge “jokes” and microaggressions before they become normalized
Staying silent in these moments is not only a sign of approval of transphobic remarks, it is permission to say them again. It doesn’t matter if they say it’s “just a joke.” Humor often disguises hostility.
A simple: “Not cool” or “Hey, that stereotype isn’t accurate” sends a clear signal that transphobic remarks aren’t acceptable and won’t be allowed to go unchecked in your presence.
5. Center and uplift trans voices
Lift up trans creators, experts, organizers, and colleagues. Share their work. Quote and credit them. If someone asks a question you’re not the best one to answer, say: “Here’s what I know, and here’s a trans person whose work goes deeper.” This shifts power, not just opinions.
To read more about the lived experiences of transgender athletes, pre-order our new book, "Fair Game: Trans Athletes & The Future Of Sport," out January 2026.
6. Practice proactive inclusion, not reactive tolerance
Instead of waiting for a trans person to show up, build spaces that are already affirming:
-
gender-neutral forms
-
inclusive restrooms
-
trans-aware staff training
-
policies that explicitly protect gender identity and expression
-
gender-neutral uniforms/equipment
Transphobia weakens when the environment is already structured to be welcoming.