The Wichita State community will have the opportunity to hear from two mothers of transgender individuals in a program entitled “Moms of Transgender Children,” hosted by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion.

The talk will happen Thursday, from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m., in the Campus Activites Center Theater.  

Thursday is the National Transgender Day of Remembrance, a day dedicated to the memory of those killed as a result of transphobia (the hatred or fear of transgender and gender non-conforming people). TDOR also focuses on bringing attention to the continuing violence faced by the trans community.

Danielle Johnson, program coordinator for the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, said she is eager for people to get a unique perspective on the trans community and their families.

Johnson said the trans community is one that is often overlooked and in much need of attention and support.

“We are also excited for the opportunity to hear from the mothers of trans individuals, a voice we often do not get to hear,” Johnson said.

TDOR is the culmination of Transgender Awareness Week, a week dedicated to celebrating of the trans community and advocating for national awareness of trans issues.

The Office of Diversity and Inclusion is participating all week long, with an event for each day. On Monday, the office presented “TransGeneration,” a documentary, followed by a presentation, “Beyond the Binary,” on Tuesday.

 The office will facilitate Transgender training from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday in room 262 of the Rhatigan Student Center. This training will cover the transitioning process and challenges faced by students at WSU, as well as myths, misconceptions and language.

The goal is to clarify issues related to gender minority/transgender people, according to the office.

“We are taking a proactive approach in educating and celebrating Transgender Awareness,” Johnson said.

For more information about the Office of Diversity and Inclusion’s Transgender Awareness Week events, visit www.wichita.eduodi or call 978-3034.