Lesbian Visibility Day is April 26, which is part of Lesbian Visibility Week, an annual observance and day of visibility to celebrate and increase the awareness of lesbian and non-binary women and their issues. An important part of Lesbian Visibility Day is to provide a voice to uplift all lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer women, especially those who come from marginalized communities. 

History of Lesbian Visibility Day

Lesbian Visibility Week was conceived in 1990 in West Hollywood out of frustration by lesbians that gay men were receiving higher visibility, and they wanted to gain awareness and sociopolitical capitol. The week of activities were organized by the West Hollywood Lesbian Visibility Committee and the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center. They wanted to raise awareness of lesbian identities, topics, and issues, and to celebrate the lesbian community. The programming included cultural events, workshops, award ceremonies, and social activities. 

Being an ally

Being an ally of the lesbian community is more than just accepting lesbians. You need to listen and take action. This includes educating yourself on the issues that are important to lesbians, understanding their concerns, and using your voice and platforms to speak up for lesbian interests. This can include political activism to fight for legislation that protects lesbians from discriminations and oppose harmful policies. 

Show your solidarity by getting involved 

Make the Lesbian Visibility Day count by showing your support either publicly, or privately. Here are some suggestions on ways you can get involved with the Lesbian Visibility Day and to show your solidarity with the lesbian community: 

Educate yourself 

Take some time to research and to understand the issues that lesbians have faced over time, their incredible support of gay men during the HIV and AIDS crisis, their fight for human rights and equality, and the rights they are still seeking around the world. 

Attend an event 

Research events and activities planned for your area. If there are already events planned, lend your energy and resources, rather than creating your own initiative. Events can include film screenings, marches, and rallies.  

Support lesbian-owned businesses 

Help strengthen the economic value, power, and impact of lesbian entrepreneurs by supporting lesbian owned businesses. 

Attend a fundraiser 

Many LGBTQ organizations will have fundraisers including bake sales, silent auctions, concerts, drag king shows, and more, all benefiting lesbian-specific programming in the local community.

Share your story 

If you are a lesbian, this is your time to shine and take the spotlight. Share your coming out story with your colleagues, on your social channels, or at a community event. Being visible is important. 

Watch the DIVA Awards 

The DIVA Awards are an annual event with winners in media and film voted for by the community. 

Ask your employer about diversity and inclusion policies 

As your manager or talk to your human resources liaison at work about the diversity and inclusion strategy, polities, and training programs to learn more about ways your employer is supporting the LGBTQ community, and if more work needs to be done. Consider establishing or joining the diversity and inclusion committee.

​Other related dates of recognition 

International Lesbian Day – an annual observation on October 8. It started in New Zealand in the 1980’s and is primarily celebrated in New Zealand and Australia. 

National Day of Lesbian Visibility – an annual observation on August 29. It started in Brazil by lesbian activists and is dedicated to the date on which the first National Lesbian Seminar – Senale took place on the date in 1996.