They Day: Celebrating Identity, Music, and Community

The Power of They

Today marks an extraordinary convergence of events that have personal significance to me: it’s They Day, a fan celebration for the band They Might Be Giants (TMBG), and it’s also National Coming Out Day. For those unfamiliar with it, They Day has been observed by TMBG fans since 1999. Traditionally, fans would write the word “They” on their foreheads to celebrate the band and their fandom. But as times have changed, the word “They” has taken on additional weight and importance.

The Evolution of “They”

While “They” was once just a nod to a beloved band, today it holds a far more significant meaning. The pronoun is now commonly used to refer to non-binary individuals or to show support for the non-binary community. In a world that is gradually coming to embrace a broader spectrum of identities, writing “They” on one’s forehead can be a potent symbol of both personal and communal acknowledgement.

Music That Lifts Voices

What makes this doubly special is the ethos that TMBG and its fandom embody. This is a community that thrives on uplifting the voices of those who need to be heard. So, it feels like a seamless fusion of values to have National Coming Out Day coincide with They Day. It underscores the kind of support and recognition that we should aspire to offer every day, not just when it’s marked on the calendar.

Theys and Gays in My Life

I’m privileged to have an incredible circle of friends and family members who are non-binary, who have come out or who haven’t yet, and who are fans of TMBG—or any combination thereof. Your presence enriches my life in so many ways. Today is indeed a joyful day for my Theys and Gays. Happy They Day to you all!

Looking Ahead

As we bask in the warmth of today’s celebrations, I’d like to announce that next week I’ll be sharing a piece that is very close to my heart. I’ll be delving into my thoughts and feelings about “Don’t Let’s Start,” a song by TMBG that has been deeply significant to me since my teenage years. To ensure you don’t miss out, feel free to subscribe for free and have it directly emailed to you.