In a bold and joyful act of visibility, trans advocates and allies will gather at the Kentucky State Capitol Rotunda on Thursday, March 27, for a Trans Joy Party and Visibility March.

The event, beginning at 11:30 a.m., is a celebration of trans resilience and community strength in the face of increasing legislative attacks including the now vetoed SB 495, which would prohibit bans on conversion therapy and ban gender-affirming care for transgender Kentuckians on Medicaid.

Organizers, including members of the ACLU of Kentucky, Fairness Campaign, Louisville Youth Group (LYG), and other LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations, are reclaiming space in a building that has often been hostile toward trans Kentuckians.

“[This is] a deliberate act of reclaiming space in a building that’s been challenging and often hostile for LGBTQIA+ communities, especially trans individuals.,” said Madelyn Spalding of Louisville Youth Group.

The event will feature a lineup of speakers, musicians, and performers, including Jacks Gilles of Mandala House, who will speak on themes of healing and joy, and representatives from Louisville Youth Group, amplifying the voices of trans youth. A musical performance by Maddie Spalding and Lorna Dries will set the stage for a dance party, led by Carma Bell Marshall, to close out the celebration before participants transition into a visibility march outside the Capitol.

Spalding emphasized the importance of showing up, not just for the trans community but for Kentucky as a whole.

“This event is critical because it asserts the visibility, dignity, and resilience of the transgender community at a time when we’re facing unprecedented legislative attacks and societal challenges,” she said. “Celebrating trans joy publicly, especially in Kentucky’s Capitol, is an act of resistance against hate, misinformation, and legislative oppression. It’s a way of showing trans youth—and all trans individuals—that they are valued, supported, and worthy of joy and dignity.”

Allies and advocates are encouraged to attend in their most joyful clothing and presentation to create a vibrant and affirming atmosphere. With the Rotunda set to undergo renovations, Spalding pointed out that this may be the last time trans Kentuckians are able to gather in this historic space.

The Rotunda will soon be closed to the public for renovations and Spaling said she fears that this celebration could be the last time trans people walk through its doors.

“Given current trends of legislation that aim to restrict LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility, there’s legitimate concern this could indeed be our last opportunity, at least for the foreseeable future, to openly celebrate trans identities in such a significant public and symbolic space,” she said. “That’s why it’s so important to document this joy now, ensuring it’s recorded as part of Kentucky’s history.”

She adds that though resistance of the event is expected, organizers remain focused on ensuring a safe and positive experience.

“Realistically, we’re prepared for potential backlash from individuals or groups who oppose LGBTQIA+ rights or misunderstand our intent,” Spalding said. “However, our primary focus is the safety and emotional well-being of everyone attending. We’re approaching the event with cautious optimism and have taken measures to ensure it’s a safe and positive experience for attendees of all ages.”

Above all, Spalding hopes this event serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of Kentucky’s trans community.

“We want the state to recognize trans individuals as integral parts of Kentucky’s broader community, deserving equal rights, dignity, and respect,” she said. “This gathering underscores our collective humanity and sends a clear message: trans joy is a powerful, undeniable, and unstoppable force!”

The Trans Joy Party and Visibility March is open to all who support equality, inclusion, and LGBTQ+ rights. Families, allies, and community organizations are encouraged to attend, dance, create, and amplify the message of trans resilience.