Trans People Have Always Existed poster

This poster features a powerful and positive image of trans people smiling at the viewer with the message 'Trans People Have Always Existed'. It challenges the belief that heteronormativity is the original and natural state, and affirms that being trans is not a new trend.

Along with other transgender diversity posters, it was first seen pasted up in Wellington city streets in 2018. The illustration is by Huriana Kopeke-Te Aho (Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Porou, Rongowhakaata, Te Āti Haunui-a-Pāpārangi, Ngāti Kahungungu) who is a Takatāpui activist artist. Their work is influenced by line-drawn animation.

The poster is one of eight published by Gender Minorities Aotearoa, which is a cross-cultural and transgender-led organisation, assisting and advocating for transgender, intersex and takatāpui people. The posters aim to help break down the isolation trans people can feel, particularly in smaller centres, and have been displayed from Invercargill to Whangarei.

Posters are a traditional method of advertising, but posters in the street are not easily ignored, and can catch the eye of people who may not be aware of trans people and issues around representation and prejudice in their communities. Such messaging can also gain acceptance and traction when displayed on authorised hoardings.