Earlier this week was Trans Day of Visibility, a day to highlight the experiences of trans, nonbinary, and gender-diverse people, while recognizing the complex realities they continue to navigate every day.
In that spirit, we want to highlight TNC staff member Paul’s (they/them) recently published article in the International Journal of Transgender Health, “Hi, my name is ___, and this is my new identity”: an analysis of name change for transgender and nonbinary individuals in Canada*. In this qualitative study, Paul and their colleagues interviewed 28 transgender and nonbinary people in Canada about their experiences of changing their names. The study found that name change can be a deeply meaningful part of gender affirmation and identity formation. Participants described their names as tied to autonomy, authenticity, and gender euphoria, while also speaking to the very real barriers they faced, including bureaucracy, cost, anxiety, and the burden of navigating systems that do not easily make room for them. Overall, the article shows that for many trans and nonbinary people, being able to use their affirmed name is not a small administrative detail, but a powerful part of being seen and living more authentically as themselves.
At its core, Paul’s article reminds us that names are central to identity and affirmation and that our legal, administrative, health, education, and workplace systems must do better. That means reducing unnecessary barriers, respecting people’s autonomy, and creating environments where trans and nonbinary people do not have to fight to be recognized for who they are.
For trans folks and allies looking for support, community, or resources, we encourage you to connect with organizations doing important work across Canada. Here are just a few:
- The 519 (Toronto)
- LGBT Youthline (Ontario)
- JusticeTrans (Canada-wide)
- Trans Wellness Ontario (Ontario)
- Out on the Shelf (local to us here in Guelph)
* Unfortunately, this article needs journal access to read in full. https://doi.org/10.1080/26895269.2026.2640946