In recognition of International Transgender Day of Visibility on March 31, the Waikīkī Aquarium partnered with the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa LGBTQ+ Center to produce a special educational video that celebrates the importance of gender diversity within human and marine life.
There are currently more than 500 species of fish that change sex throughout their lives, including clownfish, groupers and masked angelfish. The transformations can be triggered by age, size or social reasons.
“Gender change is normal, and it is something that we see in many species throughout nature,” said Camaron Miyamoto, director of the UH Mānoa LGBTQ+ Center. “The purpose of this video is to showcase this and the fact that everyone is part of a natural environment and deserves to be truly affirmed for their sexuality, gender and sex.”
“We hope that this video educates the community about the importance of not only accepting but celebrating gender diversity. The absolute normalcy and neccessity of changing sex in many species is highlighted within the fish at the Waikīkī Aquarium. It is an honor to partner with the UH Mānoa LGBTQ+ Center on this significant effort,” added Chessa Caparros, Waikīkī Aquarium volunteer program coordinator.
Founded in 2009, International Transgender Day of Visibility honors and celebrates the achievements, courage and resiliency of transgender individuals and communities. It raises awareness of the discrimination and barriers to equality the transgender community faces daily.
To view the full video, visit the Waikīkī Aquarium Facebook and Instagram pages.
