The second annual Pride Trans March steps off through Piedmont Park on Saturday, Oct. 9, presented with support by TransQueer Nation. The goal is to promote transgender visibility, and a separate march for the trans community is important, says JP Sheffield, executive director of Atlanta Pride.

“There are still some misconceptions out there about the trans community and why it’s to important to include within the whole community,” Sheffield says.

According to Sheffield, the 2009 event had roughly 50 people and more are expected this year. Trans allies are welcome as well.

Earlier this summer, Atlanta Pride and TransQueer Nation held an essay contest which asked any transgender or gender queer person to address the theme “Be Visible.”  The contest drew just under 100 entrants.

Picking a winner was not easy, says Tristan Skye of TransQueer Nation.  The winning essay will be read by its author, Sabrina Pandora, before the parade starts, says Skye.

This will be TransQueer Nation’s first year being an official part of Atlanta Pride. The organization began in 2007.

Assembly begins at 1 p.m. and the march kicks off at 1:30 p.m. at the Meadow Overlook (Charles Allen Gate). Immediately following the march will be a TransQueer Nation meet and greet mixer at the Bud Light tent in Piedmont Park.

Trans March
Saturday, Oct. 9
1 p.m. assembly; 1:30 step off
Meadow overlook near Charles Allen Gate
Presented with TransQueer Nation
www.atlantapride.org