With tragedy and discrimination in the headlines, an annual event offers D.C.’s trans community a refuge and a celebration of resilience, progress, and empowerment. Now in its eighth year, the annual Capital Trans Pride returns on May 21.

“We hear so many horrible things on the news, bathroom bills …” says volunteer Holly Goldmann, trailing off. “We want people to come in and forget about that for the day. Not to say that we’re forgetting or trying to erase anything. But we focus on the good; we try to keep it upbeat.”

One of only a handful of major events around the country that specifically celebrates the trans community, the day features a mix of workshops and performances that are meant to uplift, educate, and connect people to resources. More than 25 groups will have booths at a “resource fair,” and give talks like “Name and Gender Change, Insurance, and Immigration.”

Held inside the Reeves Municipal Center, on the U Street corridor, the aim is to offer a safe space, no matter where people are at in their lives. “A lot of people in the community are out and about and socially active. But for some people, it might be their first time coming out or expressing themselves,” Goldmann says. Around 500 people attended last year—the first time it was held at the Reeves Center—double the year prior.

Trans Pride precedes Capital Pride, which takes place from June 1-12 this year, but they are both organized by the Capital Pride Alliance.

“Initially trans people did get forgotten at the larger pride celebration,” Godmann says, though, from her perspective, things have improved over the years. “It’s probably still a bit of an issue in D.C. but I do see it getting better.”

Capital Trans Pride will take place on Saturday, May 21, at the Reeves Municipal Center (2000 14th St NW) from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.