Freedom to Be Monument RSVP
This May, to kick off World Pride, the ACLU will unveil the Freedom To Be Monument in Washington, D.C., a powerful and living testament to trans resilience and joy. As we await the Supreme Court’s decision in the landmark trans justice case U.S. v. Skrmetti, this installation stands as a bold declaration against the rising tide of anti-trans legislation, which seeks to strip away fundamental freedoms.
Read more about the Freedom to Be Monument
The Freedom To Be Monument is more than just a piece of art—it's an act of resistance, combating transphobia and trans erasure. Inspired by the legacy of the AIDS Memorial Quilt, it ensures that trans voices, stories, and existence are honored and seen. Spelling out the words “Freedom To Be,” the monument is composed of 258 panels, each 6ft x 6ft, created by hundreds of trans folks and allies from across the country. Each panel is a unique response to the question, “What does freedom to be mean to me?” Over the past year, in partnership with the ACLU, trans storytellers and allies have poured their hopes, fears, and dreams into this collaborative work of art.
The Freedom To Be Monument is more than just a piece of art—it's an act of resistance, combating transphobia and trans erasure. Inspired by the legacy of the AIDS Memorial Quilt, it ensures that trans voices, stories, and existence are honored and seen. Spelling out the words “Freedom To Be,” the monument is composed of 258 panels, each 6ft x 6ft, created by hundreds of trans folks and allies from across the country. Each panel is a unique response to the question, “What does freedom to be mean to me?” Over the past year, in partnership with the ACLU, trans storytellers and allies have poured their hopes, fears, and dreams into this collaborative work of art.
This powerful installation is the centerpiece of a national narrative change campaign aimed at elevating the essential—and often overlooked—part of the conversation about trans lives: our joy. The freedom to be loved, to be safe, and to make our own health care decisions is at the heart of what we are fighting for, and this monument boldly affirms that trans lives are here to stay.
Join us for this historic unveiling and celebration of trans resilience, joy, and liberation.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
Time: The installation will be on view from 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, with a rally and celebration from 12:30–2:00 PM.
Location: Washington, D.C. (Exact location will be shared after RSVP)
What to Expect:
- An installation consisting of 258 unique 6ft x 6ft panels, created by hundreds of trans folks and allies across the country
- A rally featuring speakers, special guests, and community leaders
- Live music and DJ sets
- Interactive activations, where you'll have the opportunity to create your own mini panels
- Know Your Rights materials and other surprises
- An interactive webpage with more information about the artists who created each panel
Notice of Accessibility: The ACLU strives to create inclusive and accessible events that enable all individuals to fully engage with its programming. If you need accommodations to be able to fully participate in this event, please contact FreedomToBe@aclu.org.