Celebrate Transgender Awareness Week with education and acceptance in Warrnambool

SAFE in the South West worker Sparklez said Transgender Awareness Week, which runs from November 13-19, is an opportunity for community to come together in awareness to learn about and celebrate gender diverse experiences.

"Trans people navigating the world do so with more strength and resilience than can be imagined," they said.

"There are many social impacts on TGDNB people - transphobia, misgendering, assumptions and myths.

"These can be combated with having safe places in the form of online, LBGT+ spaces and activities and having greater awareness and acceptance."

Transpathways reported in 2017 TGDNB people have higher levels of mental health issues including feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation.

However with a supportive network of family and friends, the risks of severe mental health concerns are halved.

SAFE in the South West have released a guide for people to understand how to become an ally through their website. The guide includes education on correct pronouns, understanding terminology and creative visible signs of support.

"An ally will stand up for those who are TGDNB and against any acts of transphobia, forms of discrimination towards those who are gender diverse," Sparklez said.

"It is important to have allies in the community who can be advocates for better access to healthcare and remove discriminatory laws, promote inclusion and give spaces for TGDNB voices and experiences."

SAFE in the South West has updated their various programs people can engage in for support.

Yumcha 'A Little Bit Of Everything' Diversity Group is a space for LGBT+ young people, friends and ally's with focus on social connections, exploration of identity, LGBT+ visibility and resources, and safety both online and in the community.

There are weekly sessions people can engage in without prior appointments or referrals every Monday from 4pm at the Brophy Family and Youth Services complex.

The SAFE Group is an opportunity for 18-25 year-old's to more focus on LGBT+ community engagement, inclusion and positive representation of diversity.

An event celebrating Transgender Awareness Week will be held on Sunday, November 17.

For more information on the groups, Transgender Awareness Week or the event head to brophy.org.au/safe-south-west or call 5561 8816.

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