By: Dawn Laguerre
Utica, NY – March 29, 2025 – Over 300 community members braved freezing rain to gather at Oneida Square in Utica for a powerful Trans Rights Rally in honor of Transgender Day of Visibility. Organized by the Oneida County Pride Association and co-sponsored by Indivisible Mohawk Valley, SAGE Upstate, the Oneida and Rome chapters of the NAACP, Citizen Action, and the Defense of Democracy group, the rally demonstrated strong local and regional support for transgender rights.
Participants held colorful signs and waved Pride flags while chanting “Trans Rights are Human Rights,” earning enthusiastic honks of support from passing drivers on Genesee Street. One of the most striking moments of the event came from Thomas, a recent newcomer to South Utica from Chicago, who proudly waved both the Pride flag and the American flag, symbolizing the unity of LGBTQ+ pride and national identity.
Ace Morreale, a leading advocate for transgender rights, addressed the crowd, highlighting the disparities in legal protections for transgender individuals across the country. Morreale reminded attendees that while New York State has robust laws protecting transgender rights and providing access to gender-affirming care, some states have enacted laws that make it a felony to be transgender. Morreale stressed the importance of the SAVE Act, a proposed federal legislation aimed at safeguarding transgender rights nationwide, and encouraged the audience to engage in discussions about its impact.
Reverend Jill Farhmus provided attendees with information on reporting hate crimes and bias incidents, emphasizing the need for community vigilance and support. Each speaker reminded participants of the significance of March 31, 2025, as the National Day of Visibility for transgender individuals.
In alignment with the rally, the Utica Public Library has partnered with the Oneida County Pride Association to curate a special book display featuring works by transgender and genderqueer authors, as well as literature focusing on transgender experiences. This initiative aims to foster greater understanding and inclusivity within the community.
Looking ahead, the Oneida County Pride Association has announced that the annual Oneida County Pride Festival will take place in June. This family-friendly event will feature music, speakers, artists, and vendors, providing an opportunity to celebrate and learn about the local LGBTQIA+ community. Details about the upcoming Pride events will be shared on the association’s official channels.
The rally in Oneida ”quare served as a powerful testament to the resilience and solidarity of the transgender community and its allies, reinforcing the ongoing commitment to equality and human rights for all.
