Protesters will take to the grounds of the Virginia State Capitol on Saturday, March 15, as Virginia 50501 hosts a “die-in” to advocate for transgender rights and gender equity.

The event, part of the group’s “March of Prides” protest, aims to raise awareness of anti-trans discrimination and encourage community activism.

“Transgender and gender nonconforming citizens already face higher mortality rates than their cisgender counterparts, especially from external forces,” Virginia 50501’s statement on the protests reads. “Additional lives will be lost in the coming years as the Trump administration continues to revoke medical and other rights from trans citizens. 50501 is calling on all who can to come out in support of trans rights!”

This protest marks a significant moment in a series of frequent gatherings organized by Virginia 50501. It is part of the group’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about anti-trans discrimination and mobilize public support for local advocacy organizations.

The hourlong protest is set to begin at noon at the Bell Tower in Capitol Square, with the die-in starting 30 minutes later and lasting 20 minutes.

Kienan Chung, an organizer for Virginia 50501, says the weekend event is a shift in the national organization’s strategy to make activism more accessible.

“We measure our progress in terms of who is getting involved in volunteering for the movement and joining other organizations,” Chung said. “It’s not just about protests, it’s about building community and effecting change. We are an entry point for many people who have never done activism before.”

 Organizer Kienan Chung stands beside Tess Evans as she speaks to hundreds of protesters at the Bell Tower in Capitol Square on Wednesday, Feb. 5.
 

Featured speakers include members of the Sunrise Movement, He She Ze and We, the Richmond Democratic Socialists of America and other groups.

A workshop to train volunteer organizers will follow the protest, with another planned for Saturday, April 5, to further expand local activism.