People march in Naples for International Transgender Day of Visibility

On Friday, people across the country and here in Southwest Florida took to the streets, marching side by side for International Transgender Day of Visibility.

It is a day used to celebrate the successes of transgender and gender non-conforming people. They want human rights for all, not some.

They don’t want anyone to feel like they’re alone, so dozens of people came together to show unity and make their voices heard.

People marched down Fifth Avenue in Naples, chanting for change, waving flags, and holding up signs.

“I want to make sure that everyone here in Collier County knows that they’re visible. Regardless of their pronouns. Regardless of how they identify,” said Cari Funk.

Funk is a member of Naples Pride. The group organized the march to show support and voice opposition to recent legislation across the country.

According to the American Civil Liberties Union, more than 430 bills have been introduced in 40 states targeting those in the LGBTQ community.

“My heart breaks for anybody who feels like they are part of the other when it comes to our governments. If you’re not like them, you’ve been deemed as other and were legislating against people that feel that way,” said Funk.

“I’m worried about my generation as well as the next generation as well. You know, my husband and I plan on being parents in the future, and we’re worried about what their lives are going to be like,” said Kyle Huff, of Bonita Springs.

The message is clear. “We have to treat each other humanely because we’re human beings, and we can never forget that,” said Huff.

“I hope people will be accepting of one another,” said Madeline Bethel.

There were marches at the state capitol as well as in Washington, D.C. President Biden said in a statement Friday that no one should have to be brave just to be themselves.