Dane County Board of Supervisors Recognizes August as Transgender History Month
August 14, 2025
Dylan Moffitt, Policy, Outreach, and Communications Coordinator, (608) 228-9053
County Board
2025 Recognition is an Opportunity to Reflect on Challenges and Triumphs
DANE COUNTY, Wis. — On Thursday, August 14, 2025, the Dane County Board of Supervisors officially recognized August 2025 as Transgender History Month throughout Dane County, honoring the rich history and contributions of transgender pioneers and trailblazers, and promoting greater awareness and understanding of challenges and triumphs faced by transgender people. The board passed 2025 RES-113 to mark this observance and affirm its ongoing commitment to fostering a more inclusive and accepting community.
“It's an especially poignant time to honor the legacy and resilience of our transgender community by observing Transgender History Month, given recent anti-transgender rhetoric and legislation around the country,” said County Board Chair Patrick Miles. “This resolution reflects Dane County's appreciation of the transgender community’s history as an integral part of our collective story to be celebrated.”
“I am proud and humbled to introduce this resolution once again this year. I’m also proud to stand alongside so many allies on the Dane County Board who recognize, support, and celebrate the contributions of our transgender community. Together, I know we will continue to fight for their right to live, love, and thrive authentically, without fear and without compromise,” said Supervisor Marren (Dist. 37). “But resolutions alone are not enough. We must speak out, show up, and push back against the growing wave of anti-trans legislation and rhetoric in our country. I urge everyone, elected officials, neighbors, advocates, and allies, to remain vigilant, to listen, and to lead with compassion. Let’s keep doing the work to build a community where every person is safe, seen, and free to be exactly who they are.”
The board also acknowledged and commended the work of GSAFE and other organizations across the state dedicated to building safe, inclusive schools for LGBTQ+ youth in Wisconsin, especially in support of transgender and nonbinary students. According to The Trevor Project’s 2024 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People, 47 percent of transgender and nonbinary young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, and 49 percent of LGBTQ+ young people ages 13-17 experienced bullying in the past year.
March Marren, a member of the Dane County transgender community and child of Supervisor Marren, spoke in support of the resolution. “I am truly honored to have the opportunity to speak on behalf of my community as we recognize and celebrate Transgender History Month. Now, more than ever, it is essential to honor our history and recognize that being transgender is not a new phenomenon, even here in Wisconsin,” said Marren. “In a time when rights are under threat and the future feels uncertain, it is important to remember the courage of those who came before us. Like them, we must stand strong and united in the face of adversity, advocate for our own rights and those of others, and support our community. This resolution is not only a celebration of transgender history, but a reminder that we are not going anywhere.”
The Dane County Board of Supervisors remains a proud national leader in welcoming and supporting transgender and nonbinary community members. The board reaffirms its commitment to advancing inclusive education, protecting access to affirming care, and uplifting the voices of transgender individuals.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. The Trevor Project offers free, confidential support 24/7, 365 days a year to LGBTQ+ young people. Connect with a trained crisis counselor by text, chat, or phone at www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help.
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About the Dane County Board of Supervisors: The Dane County Board of Supervisors is the legislative and policymaking body of Dane County government. Made up of 37 supervisors elected from districts in the county, the mission of the Dane County Board of Supervisors is to effectively represent the people of Dane County, providing services that secure the blessings of freedom, ensure domestic tranquility, promote the general welfare, and perfect the forms of government. Learn more about the County Board at https://board.danecounty.gov/.