Sponsored by Gilead and ViiV Healthcare, Event Uplifted, Empowered, and Mobilized Baltimore's Transgender Community

BALTIMORE, MD (Monday, March 31, 2025) - Today, The Baltimore City Mayor's Office of LGBTQ Affairs, in partnership with Maryland Safe Haven, successfully hosted its Trans Day of Visibility (TDOV) celebration, bringing together community members, advocates, and leaders to honor, uplift, and advocate for the transgender and nonbinary community. Generously sponsored by Gilead and ViiV Healthcare, the event took place at Baltimore City Hall from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM and provided an impactful space for dialogue, advocacy, and empowerment.

Trans Day of Visibility is a global celebration recognizing the resilience and achievements of trans individuals while addressing the ongoing discrimination they face.

"As we mark Trans Day of Visibility this year, trans and nonbinary people across our nation are being unfairly targeted by hateful policies and rhetoric, much of it from the highest levels of our government. Baltimore chooses a different path. We reject all attempts to dismiss, deny, or erase LGBTQIA+ people. Trans visibility means seeing a more inclusive and complete version of our city," said Mayor Brandon Scott. "My administration continues to embrace and uplift all Baltimoreans- no matter who they love or how they identify- because we know our city is at its strongest when all of us are free to live our lives safely and authentically."

This year's event in Baltimore featured a dynamic panel discussion, inspiring speeches from city leaders, and a call to action to build legislative power and community advocacy.

"Visibility is just the beginning," said Alexis Blackmon, Interim Director of the Baltimore City Mayor's Office of LGBTQ Affairs. "Our goal is to ensure that visibility leads to real change- through policy, protections, and community-driven action. This event was not just about celebrating who we are but about mobilizing for a future where every trans and nonbinary person is seen, valued, and protected."

Event Highlights Included:

Maryland Safe Haven, a leading trans-led organization providing emergency support and housing resources, co-hosted the event to further its mission of ensuring safety and stability for trans individuals in Baltimore and beyond.

"As attacks on trans rights continue nationwide, it's critical that we come together- not just to celebrate but to fight for the rights and resources our community deserves," said Iya Dammons, Executive Director of Maryland Safe Haven. "This event was about action, empowerment, and solidarity."

Call to Action: Building a Legislative Movement

During the event, organizers officially launched the LGBTQ Legislative Coalition, providing attendees with weekly advocacy updates and opportunities to push for trans-inclusive policies in Baltimore and across Maryland. Community members were encouraged to stay engaged, mobilize, and make their voices heard.

The Trans Day of Visibility event was free and open to the public, drawing strong attendance and meaningful engagement from community members and allies.

Media Contact:

Alexis Blackmon Interim Director, Mayor's Office of LGBTQ Affairs

Email: alexis.blackmon@baltimorecity.gov
Phone: (443) 571-7913

About the Mayor's Office of LGBTQ Affairs

The Baltimore City Mayor's Office of LGBTQ Affairs works to advance policies, programs, and initiatives that uplift and protect Baltimore's LGBTQ+ community.

About Maryland Safe Haven

Maryland Safe Haven is a trans-led nonprofit dedicated to providing emergency housing, resources, and advocacy for transgender individuals in need.

About Gilead & ViiV Healthcare

Gilead Sciences and ViiV Healthcare are global leaders in HIV/AIDS research, healthcare access, and LGBTQ community support, dedicated to improving health outcomes for all.

Baltimore's Trans Day of Visibility event was a powerful demonstration of resilience, unity, and progress, reminding everyone that visibility must lead to action.

#TDOVBaltimore | #TransVisibility | #LGBTQAdvocacy

• Keynote & Remarks - Featuring remarks by LGBTQ advocates.

• Panel Discussion - Addressing the power of visibility, challenges, and legislative action.

• Legislative Coalition Launch - Introducing a movement for trans-inclusive policies and protections.

• Community Resources & Networking - Providing access to health, housing, and advocacy organizations.