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Trans Awareness Week: Honoring Identity, Holding Space, and Building a More Affirming Community

Trans Awareness Week flag being worn by young adult representing LGBTQIA+ support at Nurturing Wellness in Columbus, Ohio.

Every year from November 13–19, Trans Awareness Week invites us to pause, listen, and reflect.It’s a time to honor transgender, nonbinary, and gender-expansive individuals, uplift their stories, and recommit to creating a wo

rld where everyone feels safe to live as their full, authentic self.


At Nurturing Wellness, we believe that identity isn’t something to debate — it’s something to respect.And support isn’t passive. It’s active, intentional, and rooted in compassion.


What Trans Awareness Week Represents

Trans Awareness Week raises visibility for transgender and gender-expansive communities while calling attention to the importance of acceptance, safety, and mental health support.

Trans Awareness Week sign and flag representing LGBTQIA+ support at Nurturing Wellness in Columbus, Ohio.


This week reminds us that gender identity is deeply personal — and that affirmation can literally save lives.



Understanding Gender Identity with Openness and Respect


“Transgender” describes someone whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.But identity goes beyond definitions — it’s a lived, felt experience.

Research shows that when transgender youth and adults receive gender-affirming care, their mental health and overall well-being improve dramatically.


Safety creates healing.

Affirmation creates stability.

Belonging creates resilience.


How to Show Up as an Ally to Trans and Gender-Expansive People


Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, teacher, friend, or simply a member of the community, your support matters.


Ways to Foster Affirming Spaces:


  • Believe people when they tell you who they are.

  • Use chosen names and correct pronouns.

  • Educate yourself about gender identity and LGBTQIA+ experiences.

  • Surround trans individuals with affirming adults and peers.

  • Speak up when you hear harmful or inaccurate language.

  • Celebrate the person’s whole identity — not only their gender.


You don’t need perfection. You need presence.


Support for Parents and Caregivers


If your child or teen is exploring their gender identity, it’s natural to feel unsure or afraid of “getting it wrong.”What matters most is what you already know how to offer:


love, curiosity, connection, and protection.


You don’t have to have every answer. You just have to show up with an open heart.


Support for Transgender and Gender-Expansive Adults


You deserve spaces where your identity is affirmed and your whole self is welcomed.Whether you’re out, questioning, transitioning, or navigating this journey privately — you deserve care that respects all parts of who you are.


You are not too much. You are not alone. You belong here.


Why Schools and Community Spaces Matter


For many young people, school is where identity and belonging collide.Small actions from adults can make a profound impact.


What Support Looks Like in Schools:


  • Inclusive language

  • Correct names and pronouns

  • Clear expectations for respect

  • Policies that affirm trans students’ rights


Advocacy creates safety. Safety creates belonging.


Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR)


Trans Awareness Week leads into Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20th — a day honoring those lost to anti-trans violence.It is both a moment of mourning and a commitment to continue building a safer, more loving world.


Our Commitment at Nurturing Wellness


At Nurturing Wellness, we stand with transgender, nonbinary, intersex, gender-expansive, and LGBTQIA+ individuals and families.


We are dedicated to:


  • Gender-affirming, trauma-informed therapy

  • Safe, inclusive, judgment-free spaces

  • Whole-person wellness for youth, adults, and families

  • Respecting each client’s lived experience

  • Up-to-date training in LGBTQIA+ mental health care


Everyone deserves to feel known, supported, and safe in their identity.

If you or someone you love is exploring their gender identity or seeking affirming support, our team is here to help.


Trusted Resources and Support


You Belong Here


Trans Awareness Week reminds us that empathy, visibility, and affirmation change lives.Whether you're exploring your identity, supporting someone you love, or learning to be a better ally, your compassion makes a difference.


At Nurturing Wellness, you will always be met with respect, care, and affirmation — exactly as you are.

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