In another notable moment of leadership reflecting basic Oak Park values, the village board last week chose to honor Transgender Day of Visibility on March 31. The village government will also be involved in an event this Sunday (March 30) celebrating the moment in Scoville Park.
There was a large crowd in the council chambers at village hall last week when the vote was taken. Comments were passionate and affirming of the value of every person and the rights of each person to live safely and proudly in a community. Aaron McManus, a social justice advocate for inclusion, took it a step further when they urged the village to consider becoming a transgender sanctuary city.
There will be rallies across the nation on behalf of transgender visibility next week. All this in response to the hate-filled actions of the Trump administration in attempting to squelch the rights and very identity of the trans community.
Oak Park’s response is both essential and gratifying.