GOONJ: Renouncing The Label

GENDER CHAMPIONSHIP CELL
SRI AUROBINDO COLLEGE (EVE)

RENOUNCING
THE

LLAABBEELL

ANNUAL NEWSLETTER
2020-21

SECOND EDITION

#HUMANITYABOVEALL

12/10/19

Khanak'20 Up, Close and Personal

Decipher the Reality Khanak'21

18/03/21 Goonj'20

Project Talk All this in 524 Days!

Pride Month

Kalpit

Webinars Pankh
Azad Udaan
Pankh
Azad Udaan Internships

"MILES TO GO BEFORE I SLEEP"

INDEX

FROM THE DESK OF PRINCIPAL 4 DISABLE THE LABEL 20

FROM THE DESK OF CONVENOR 5 My coming out story 21

FROM THE DESK OF CO-CONVENOR 6 MY PHILANTHROPIST GRANDMOTHER 22

FROM THE DESK OF STUDENT EDITORS 7 BEYOUTIFUL 23

FROM THE DESK OF CORE TEAM 8 MY WONDERFUL GAY LIFE 24
MEMBERS

I am ready 25

about gc 9

SELF LOVE IS ESSENTIAL 26

PROJECT TALK 10 TRANSMISOGENY 27
(TELL, ASK, LISTEN & KNOW)

OUR INITIATIVES AT LARGE 11 COMING OUT IS A JOURNEY 28

PANKH – Azad Udaan (Blog Posts) 12 KUCH TOH LOG KAHENGE 29

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL 13 RENOUNCING THE LABEL 30

PRIDE MONTH 14 PEOPLE ASSOCIATED WITH US 31

KHANAK 2021 15

RENOUNCING THE LABEL 16-17

Interaction with Ankit Bhuptani 18

Interaction with Aruna Desai 19

FROM THE DESK OF PRINCIPAL

Dear Readers,
It gives me immense pleasure to present before you the second edition of GOONJ the Annual
Newsletter of the Gender Championship Cell of the college.

For the fullest blooming of a culture, civilization & society, it's important that each individual's
true & authentic voice be heard, understood, acknowledged, and listened to...much akin to
each bead serving to make a beautiful necklace.

Gender-diverse individuals face alienation from society and are not able to contribute their best
to their fullest potential towards their family and the nation.

Non-conformity is often-times seen as something to be ridiculed & feared. However, all fear has
its roots in ignorance. I am happy that the out-pouring of thoughts in GOONJ will go a long way
in removing the ignorance and dispel the darkness of transphobia and homophobia so
prevalent in our society today.

“It is absolutely imperative that every human being’s freedom and human
rights are respected, all over the world."- Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir

Gender equality is a necessary foundation for a peaceful world-order and sustainable
development of humanity. But the statements of prejudices about the LGBTQIA+ community
have been threaded in everyone's mind. There are a number of labels used by people to
identify the LGBTQ+ community. For some labels can be useful and help them find people who
are similar to them but, on the other hand, these labels when used to exclude LGBTQIA+
people limit their growth. We need to ensure equal human rights, dignity, status, and
opportunity to the people of the LGBTQIA+ Community.

I appreciate the efforts of the Gender Sensitization Convener Dr Vibha Batra & the students
who constituted the Gender Championship Cell in the year 2019, fostered the idea of gender
neutrality, and created a dignified platform for the people who are so often looked down upon.
The team has worked with zeal since it's inception and continues to do so. Best wishes for more
power to the team !!

I place on record my appreciation for Dr. Vibha Batra and Mrs. Anisha Srivastava for very ably

guiding the students in spreading the message of non-discrimination and inclusion of all in

nation-building. Dr. Kusum Lata, Principal

Sri Aurobindo College(E), (2020-21)

FROM THE DESK OF CONVENOR &

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Greetings to the Dear Readers!
With great joy in my heart, I present the second edition of GOONJ 2020-2021.
The theme, “Renouncing the Label,” is the need of our times for the transformation of
people around us.
"Labels are for filling. Labels are for clothing. Labels are not for human beings."
Martina Navratilova
The only essential label is one's name, to conduct oneself in this world.
But alas! Every day we hear labels & more labels like good, bad, fat, thin, stupid, ugly, rich-
poor, studious, Hindu, Muslim, black, white, slow, clever, Indian, American, and not just
that… labels of labels e.g. an upper-caste Hindu and what not...!

If a label serves some utilitarian purpose, it's ok and much needed.
But otherwise, a label is nothing but a judgment about another person, only if we
understand & acknowledge the immense power of language.
By labeling someone or ourselves, we limit our curiosity about the person. We “box”
them into a stereotype. We prevent their growth and their exploration of their potential.

Even worse is discriminatory labels and pejoratives we use casually, unfortunately, more
towards individuals who are different from the majoritarian norm. Using such labels is
nothing but bullying and it has no place in a civil society.
Let’s not bully by using labels. Let’s not get divided by labels. The only worthy label is
human beings - all others are facades we can be better without.
I take joy in mentioning that Sri Aurobindo College Evening is a Gender-equal institution.
We acknowledge and accept diversity sans unmindful labels. We believe in dignity &
respect for all individuals falling anywhere in the spectrum of human expression of
gender/sexual orientation.
I congratulate the very disciplined, dedicated, committed, and hard-working team of
students of Gender Championship Cell. They are the true champions echoing their
voices.
Happy reading !!

Dr. Vibha Batra,Convener/Mentor
Gender Sensitization Committee &

Gender Championship Cell
Sri Aurobindo College(E), (2020-21)

FROM THE DESK OF CO-CONVENOR

“Renouncing the label” (related to gender, sexuality, and mental health) is the theme of
our annual newsletter GOONJ for this year. Gender Sensitization Cell is committed to
living up to its ideals of creating awareness on issues like gender discrimination,
institutions of sexual exploitation and control, and iconographies around gender that
patronize stereotypes. They have shown their earnest quest in initiating dialogues that
can connect the larger crowd with those who belong to the marginalized sexual
identities to create the realization that the acceptance of diversities only strengthens
the human community and makes the world a better place to live.

Who creates labels for social communities? What kinds of labels are being implied here
? Is it a part of dominant socialization processes that we unconsciously imbibe? Do
these labels intend to differentiate marginalized identities from the mainstream
identities and thus deprive them of normal acceptance? or do these labels emphasize
the diversity of its individuals? What creates a need for this kind of segregation or
division? What is implied by the need to renounce labels? Do labels always have only a
pejorative implication for social communities? or do they also give the communities a
scope for emphasizing their diversities? Why don’t we accept diversities as they exist
rather than talking about renouncing labels and compelling diversities to diffuse in the
mainstream? How does the larger and more relevant connotation of mental wellness
get sabotaged by equating it with mental abnormality? Can renouncing labels change
the mind-set of the people and discourage them from being judgemental?

These and many such concerns will get reflected in the pages of the newsletter
through the multifaceted outpourings. If we desire to create a world where diversities
can be respected, the whole exercise of creating labels has to be put to serious
scrutiny.
Wishing my dear writers, the very best in their quest for exploring a very relevant
theme!!

Mrs. Anisha Srivastav, Co-convenor
Gender Sensitization Committee &

Gender Championship Cell
Sri Aurobindo College(E), (2020-21)

FROM THE DESK OF STUDENT EDITORS

"Crave for things, you'll get it. Niraj
Renounce the craving, the object will follow you by itself." Yatika
Divya
-Swami Sivananda Aastha
Prachi
We, with both the views, i.e. to speak and to listen to every heart that Akshit
repudiates the 'LABELS' built by the society, are here with the second
edition of the annual newsletter-GOONJ of the gender-inclusive
society of Sri Aurobindo College(E). We are the Gender Champions.
We thank our Principal Dr. Kusumlata, Convenor Dr. Vibha Batra, Co-
Convenor Mrs. Anisha Srivastava, team members, and all the other
stake contributors without whose support GOONJ would not have
happened.
Along with sharing the journey towards achieving milestones with
you, this newsletter covers multiple articles, poems, art, and
interviews that are "RENOUNCING THE LABELS." We strongly believe
that Labels do us a disservice as they can’t capture the complex and
dynamic human spirit. Also, we hope that it leaves you with unlimited
inspiration to work for the change and stand and fight wherever
required. We, as a collective, believe that a dialogue should be
initiated to shatter the embedded stigmatization associated with
humanity.
Further, we believe that oral testimonies have the power to challenge
grand narratives of the larger section of the society, which
unfortunately tend to privilege heteronormativity and shun those
who go against the set binaries of gender. In the Indian context, the
'gender' trouble is not just limited to conformity but acquires a
complex character due to the existence of multiple hierarchies like
class, caste, creed, etc.
We hope that this exercise brings about reformation in the way
society is structured. We see this exercise as a way of providing a
platform to those voices which are hitherto neglected, crushed, and
marginalized.
We believe that GOONJ with its courage will turn every unturned
stone of your heart.
Lastly, any suggestions or inputs are welcome.
Thank you!

FROM THE DESK OF CORE TEAM MEMBERS

Co-founder&President
12th October 2019, Gender Championship Cell made its official appearance in the कमभू म to make
our surrounding a human-friendly place. The journey since then has been a rollercoaster mostly with
highs(relieved to say). I'll be forever grateful to have experienced leading this team from Day 1. While
writing my last message from the Desk of Core team for the readers of our work, I proudly present to
N I R A J you the second edition of GOONJ, this time to help the world in "Renouncing the Label.”
KEJRIWAL

YATIKA Vice President
MEHLA "How lucky am I to have something so special, that makes saying goodbye so hard."

-Winnie the Pooh
To me, being a part of the change has always been a huge deal. Doing my part and using the
opportunity provided to me to the best of interest and betterment of society. Being a core team
member for the past year has been a rollercoaster ride and it has helped me hone my leadership
skills to the fullest extent possible. It has been an enriching and rewarding experience being a part of
this hardworking group of individuals. What makes us unique is the fact that everyone in GC has
something new and different to offer. The willingness and openness to take part in new things and
doing things for the good of others. Together let's RENOUNCE THE LABELS imposed on us.

DIVYA General Secretary
SHARMA Being a part of the Gender Championship Cell makes me proud. The past two years working with this
society have been an amazing journey for me, whether it's about working with the team, which
consists of different mindsets with one goal (making a gender-neutral society) or knowing them
individually. I have learned a lot. The growth I see in myself towards being a better human makes me
believe that change can happen. This year's newsletter GOONJ will aim at making every reader
believe that we can "Renounce the Label" with our strong willpower and beliefs towards equality.

BIJITA Joint Secretary
NAYAK "Don't judge a book by its cover" is one of the most underrated phrases. We use it or say it without
actually meaning it. This year has been full of learning new things and having the pleasure to know
some great people, who have inspired me to rack my brains and think about different perceptions to
see a particular situation. In my time working with GC, out of all the new things I have learned, one
philosophy that I've implemented and would want to share with everyone is a temporary suspension
of judgment. It means not forming an opinion about someone too quickly. We humans can give the
person in front of us sometime before forming an opinion about them and sticking by it. Let love be
the mediator and not judgments and opinions.

ABOUT GC

Message from the two-time President, Niraj Kejriwal (2019-20 & 2020-21)

Gender Championship Cell (GC Cell) - a novel beginning by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in
collaboration with HRD Ministry for the educational institutions, is aimed at creating leaders for developing gender-
inclusive campuses and to work for spreading the values of inclusion and non-discrimination in the society. The
collective engagement of our aluminus contributor Saurabh Singh Parmar (2019 session) with the young minds led
to the formation of Gender Championship Cell on 12th October 2019 at Sri Aurobindo College Evening under the
mentorship of Dr Vibha Batra, the Convenor of Gender Sensitization Committee. Today GC Cell is industriously
functional under the aegis of Internal Quality Assurance Cell of the college.

Role of GC Cell: The societal strata around us have inequalities in all forms just like the air around us, be it for
gender, sexual orientation, mental health conditions, or anything which the stereotypical ideologies do not approve
of. Gender Championship Cell is here to forge the hope for a better tomorrow and to constantly engender
torchbearers for social transformation.
Aim of GC Cell: We at Gender Championship Cell ceaselessly work for fabricating an egalitarian society, where we
desire to inculcate the doctrine of ACCEPTANCE as the soul of human existence. No human should be neglected or
discriminated against on grounds of gender, sex, caste, creed, religion, color, mental health, career choices, lifestyle
preferences. And no harm be done to the wellbeing of any individual.

Endeavors of GC Cell: Team GC Cell is, purposefully hustling day in and day out, following is the synopsis of the
same for session 2020-21.

Pride Month Celebrations: We celebrated June as the LGBTQIA+ Pride Month to promote self-affirmation,
dignity, equality, and increased visibility of the LGBTQIA+ community as a social group.
Annual Newsletter 2019-20: The launch of GOONJ’20 happened in the month of July last year, the theme of
which was ‘Untold Tales of Courage’.
PANKH-Azad Udaan: Launched the blogging column for breaking stereotypes related to gender, sexuality,
and mental health of the society and issued more than 20 blogs in the session.
Project TALK (Tell, Ask, Listen & Know): The mental health advocacy initiative to work for eliminating the
stigma related to mental health in society.
Live Sessions & Webinars: Throughout the session, we conducted multiple discussions on intriguing and
value-adding topics with many professional and real-life inspirational personalities.
KHANAK’21: The annual mega-event Khanak this year was conducted over 2 days with the theme ‘Celebrating
Acceptance’ featuring a plethora of distinguished personalities and artists.

And there is significantly more to the list above, the detailed reports of which are present in the pages ahead, the
self-evident success of these events and initiatives can be checked on our social media handles and in the real-time
feedback of the guests, participants, organizations, and all other stakeholders.

In the short span of one and a half years, the impact that GC Cell has crafted is in itself a report of the change we
talk about. We practice what we preach. Gender Championship Cell is a committed team of passionate students
working whole-heartedly for developing a gender-friendly environment for us and for generations to come. GC Cell
works on the legacy of understanding and subordination of individual interest to the general interest of the team.
We are and we will keep doing the best in our capacity.
We say #humanityaboveall.
We express ourselves with #speakingheartsout.
We are the Gender Champions!

9

PROJECT TALK (TELL, ASK, LISTEN & KNOW)

Through the words of Vice President, Yatika Mehla

"It's okay to ask for help."

The Gender Championship Cell of Sri Aurobindo College Evening firmly believes in the above quote and actively
promotes the same with the help of our Mental Health Advocacy Initiative Project TALK. Project TALK is a
student-led initiative formed by students of GC CELL of SACE. TALK is an acronym that stands for Tell, Ask,
Listen and Know. We aim to assist, guide, and act as mentors and friends for individuals facing troubles in their
regular day-to-day life and choose to contact us.

With the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic and an extensive increase in mental health issues, suicide cases
amongst people of all ages lead the GC-Cell of SACE to do their share for this rather taboo subject that was
affecting the lives of so many people around us. Since we are all students and not certified professionals, we
found out about Mental health Advocacy which the World Health Organization (WHO) describes as a relatively
new concept, developed with a view to reducing stigma and discrimination, and promote the human rights of
people with mental health issues. It consists of various actions aimed at changing the major structural and
attitudinal barriers to achieving positive mental health outcomes in populations. This module draws attention
to the importance of advocacy in mental health policy and service development. The roles of various mental
health groups in advocacy are outlined. This module is part of the WHO Mental Health Policy and Service
Guidance Package.

We launched Project TALK on 20th September 2020. Till-date, a lot of individuals have approached us with their
problems and issues concerning their mental health, and we do our part of either talking to them as friends
and mentors or if in any case, the situation is extremely sensitive, we connect them with a mental health
professional from organizations like Vandervala foundation, You're Wonderful Project and many more.

Let's look at how to make use of the services we provide under Project TALK. Anyone facing any mental health
issues regardless of one's age, gender, sex, ethnicity, religion, color can approach us on the WhatsApp number
(6003384012), and over there they'll get a link to a form wherein we've mentioned the services we offer and the
guidelines we follow. Anyone wanting to approach us has to fill the form and our team gets back to the
concerned individual. To talk a little about our guidelines they state the following:-

● Informed Consent means that the person has voluntarily agreed to avail the service(s) and

understands the nature of the service(s).

● Information provided to us is true and correct.
● Confidentiality: All information provided to us will be safeguarded.

Till now, Project TALK has impacted many individuals from different walks of life. We have had cases ranging
from suicide cases, problems within the family, anxiety issues, overthinking, and many more. The leading
members affiliated with Project TALK have mentored and guided these individuals. We believe in working
together as an alliance and that is why the mentors of Project TALK along with the concerned individual sit
down and just TALK leading them to reach a solution together and do what is best for the concerned individual.

We would like to conclude with a quote by Glenn Close which has been the foundation of Project TALK, “What
mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation.” We were, we are, and
we will continue walking on this road together for the betterment of the society and world at large through this
initiative together.

10

OUR INITIATIVES AT LARGE

LGBTQ+ STORIES The third and the last story of the series was yet
The first story was about Meghna Mehra. We got to another inspirational one about Sandeep, who
know about the struggle she faced within society and happens to be a resident of Haryana. Sandeep
the discrimination she encountered for many years struggled with his identity as a teenager. He kept
for the sole reason of being an asexual woman. Her ignoring his feelings until the time came when he just
story emboldens us a lot. Despite the prejudices, she had to see the reality. After realizing that he was into
didn't stop. Therefore, She founded AIQA (All India men, he couldn't accept himself. His internalized
Queer Association) in 2019 and is continuously homophobia put him in depression and made him
working for the community. The story reached out to feel ashamed of his identity. However, after
an audience of 488 people. researching a lot and educating himself, he came to
accept and love his true self. Now he is in a happy
The second story was about the journey of Deepak relationship, living his life to the fullest. His story
Chohtel, who went from being bullied by his PG mates reached more than 1,378 people.
because of his effeminate gestures to finally garnering
enough courage to love himself. Deepak identifies
himself as a homosexual person, pursuing his
graduation from the University of Delhi. After fighting
a long battle with homophobia in his life, he, now,
proudly accepts and admires his sexuality. His story
reached out to an audience of 953 people.

LGBTQ+ TERMINOLOGY
Gender Championship Cell came up with the idea of
making it easy for people to understand the
LGBTQIA+ spectrum. We decided to come back to the
basics and acquaint people with the ABCD of the
LGBTQIA+ spectrum. Hence, we post each alphabet
every wednesday with the picture of a famous
personality or public figure related to the term and
one of their quotes. We have reached letter F till now.

11

PANKH – Azad Udaan (Blog Posts)

We are proud to have launched "PANKH: Till-date, we have published 23 blogs. Some of
Azad Udaan'', a blog column where we put those topics covered in the blogs are as
society under a microscope and try to follows:
understand why it behaves the way it
does. Our motive is to create a path- 1." Guys don't wear makeup ", is a study
breaking idea for the end of societal and question into the reasons behind the
gender-related stereotypes. We are singular association of makeup with women
publishing our blogs at WordPress and the exclusion of men.
blogging website, which is the world's 2." Homosexuality is not natural but
largest platform for blogging posts. We Homophobia/Transphobia is? ", is an
post a fresh blog every Monday. Every analysis of the general public mentality and
week a member of GC Cell writes a blog on the several factors that lead to lack of
a new topic that covers subjects not awareness and rigidity among people.
discussed openly in society. 3. " Women solely responsible for
household tasks ", is a topic to raise the
voice against the patriarchy that our society is
imbibed with, which tries to hold only women
responsible for household chores
management.
4. " Transgender rights are human rights?
", covers the systemic alienation of the trans
community and raises a voice against the
society that discriminates and crucifies people
for having the courage to be their true selves.
5. " Men will be Men: No freedom of
expression ", is an analysis of how society
decides some vapid, baseless, and feeble
norms for being a ''Man'', falling apart from
which, one's "Masculinity" becomes
questionable.
With our blog, we try to condemn and
challenge those norms and tags and try to
impart a more sensible, broad, and developed
stance to society.

12

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

On 24th October 2020, the Gender Championship On 10th January 2021, the Gender Championship
Cell of SACE had a fruitful live session with Raj Cell of SACE had a wholesome live session with
Saxena who is an Assistant Professor and an Sayed Raza Hussain Zaidi who is a founding
equal rights activist. Being an asexual individual member of Aazaadi International and a member
himself he felt the necessity to ensure of the Awadh Queer Pride Committee. He has
representation of his community to help more extensive experience of training in gender-sex-
individuals like him. So in 2013, he found Indian sexuality and working with Queer Community,
Asexuals which is India's First initiative for the students, educational institutions, and individuals
asexual community. 434 people connected with from a variety of settings including socially
us for the live session. excluded and marginalized sections of society
(Female Sex Workers and Transgenders). We were
joined by 302 viewers for the session.

On 1st November 2020, the Gender
Championship Cell, SACE, conducted a live session
with Raina Raonata, a biomedical engineer by
profession, who has ventured into the creative
field after her graduation. She has also worked
with Byjus for creating educational videos. She is
also been working with SheThePeople for the last
2 years. 620 of the viewers had joined us in the
session.

On 17th January 2021, the Gender Championship
Cell, SACE, conducted a positive and insightful live
session with Lush monsoon aka Ayushmaan, a
drag performer and a lawyer by profession. They
have been featured in leading publications like
BBC, Harper's Bazaar, and Vogue. In the session,
they discussed what it is like to be a drag
performer in India. They also spoke about the
importance of self-expression and self-
acceptance, and how we as a society can move
past the ideas of masculinity and femininity. 350+
viewers joined us for the session.

13

PRIDE MONTH

LGBTQI+ pride symbolizes the promotion of self- Multiple known personalities belonging to and
affirmation, dignity, equality, and increased working for the LGBTQI+ community joined us
visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual, non-binary, and through live sessions on our official Instagram
transgender people as a social group of society. handle to share and spread their idea of pride
The month of June has been chosen as LGBTQI+ and equality, the details of which are mentioned
Pride Month across the world to raise awareness below:
about the people of the community. Hence our On 5th June 2020, we were joined by Mr. Garvit
initiative to celebrate the same our way. Nagpal, the event was attended by more than 200
individuals virtually.
All across the world, the LGBTQI+ community and
allies come together in a harmonious way to On 12th June 2020, we were joined by Shabnam
celebrate their existence and the undying spirit! Bewafa a.k.a Nitish Anand, who is one of India’s
It's marked as an important event that helps Youngest Drag Queens, which was again attended
provide visibility to this marginalized group and by more than 250 individuals.
make people aware of their responsibility towards On 19th June 2020, we were joined by Mr. Mohit
providing a safe space for all, regardless of who is a social media influencer, the event was
gender! 'Love is Love' is usually the theme of the attended by more than 400 individuals.
events with few modifications here and there. On 26th June 2020, we were joined by Miss
Gender Championship Cell took upon this Harshita Nair who is a representative of the queer
opportunity and celebrated Pride month with community, social influencer, and a personal
students across the University of Delhi, but blogger, the session was attended by around 300
virtually this time. We conducted many activities people.
like a one-word challenge, picture challenge, live Overall, we can proudly say that we were able to
sessions, etc. which were held over the entire spread the word for pride and equality among
month of June celebrating the colorful community. thousands of people during Pride month.

14

KHANAK 2021

Celebrating acceptance and importance of mental health

"Khanak 2.0- Celebrating Acceptance'' was a two-
day event dated; 20th and 21st February 2021,
which marked the presence of respectable guests
along with important, eye-opening discussions on
the acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community and
Mental Health.

On day 1, Nitasha Biswas, India’s First
Transgender Beauty Contest Winner, gave a
beautiful speech on humanity and inclusivity
which was succeeded by Riya Tickoo’s melodious
performance. Her harmonious voice and
charming personality enchanted the audience. We
were also honored by the presence of Dr. Arouba
Kabir, a distinguished Mental Health Therapist,
who interacted with the audience, explaining the
importance of mental health and self-care.

Khanak had some prestigious media partners like Day 2 was executed with the same enthusiasm
The Education Tree, DU Club, DU Media, DU Vibes, and started with a panel discussion consisting of
DU Express, Campus Bloggers and DU Thinks. The three distinguished community members: Keval
sponsors that made Khanak possible are the Pari Harie, Raza Hussain Zaidi, and Shaman Gupta.
match which was given 350 sign-ups by our team, They talked about the LGBTQ+ community,
Digital Papa, which got 200 followers and 50 spreading awareness on their struggles, visibility,
shoutouts, and Fun Fight, which received 300 and representation. We also interviewed Dr.
downloads from our team. Pragati Singh, a health professional, on the
common myths of mental health. We were
We got huge appreciation and positive feedback grateful to have the hilarious standup comedian,
from the attendees. Breaking the high standards Gurleen Pannu. Her amusing humor and
set last year, Khanak 2.0 became a huge success spontaneity stole everyone’s hearts.
because of the collective efforts of our team,
sponsors, and media partners. We hope to Promotions and efforts of the Gender
continue working hard to provide such platforms Championship Cell ensured 437 registrations for
for people to have the opportunity of just the event. With 200+ initial audiences and more
accepting others for who they are and renouncing than a hundred consistent audiences on both
internal prejudices. days. No doubt audience engagement was bang
on.

15

RENOUNCING THE LABEL

In the words of our members

To me, Renouncing the Label is the first When humans don't understand
step to accept oneself as our own natural something, they put it in two-dimensional
being and to start the process of self-love boxes, creating labels based on
and inner growth. I prioritize myself. stereotypes. Only if we try taking a step
ahead to embrace this diversity, to
-Niraj Kejriwal understand it, could the world be a better
place. -Saurav Tiwari

RENOUNCING THE LABEL, for me, means doing what “I”, as human
desire, instead of the set gender narratives that society and the
people around impose on us. Shunning these labels away to lead
a life of my liking is Renouncing the label in itself. There is more to
life and us as humans than just the LABELS. -Yatika Mehla

"Renouncing the label", to me, holds the According to me, “Renouncing the Label”
meaning that I'm different and that's okay, I means to be happy with yourself. Not
don't have to fit through the hole the thinking about the society or your
society tries to fit me in. I can just be who I surroundings. Everyone is unique in their
am without putting a label on it. -Surbhi own way. So love yourself and do what
makes you happy. -Tushar Agarwal

Apni pehchaan ko kisi k label ka mohtaj na "Renouncing the LABEL'', to me, is being able
bana ke, apni pehchaan shabdo ke pare to do whatever makes me feel happy without
banana aur usse banaye rakhna is being judged. There's a need to break the
Renouncing the label for me. -Urja social stereotypes. -Divya Sharma

I believe, “ Renouncing the label“ is the
beginning of liberation from the shackles of
categorization. It's being ourselves rather
than living up to someone’s expectations.

-Aniket

16

RENOUNCING THE LABEL

In the words of our members

”Renouncing the label”, to me, means "Renouncing the label", to me, means
creating one’s own identity, separate and detaching myself from the stereotypes of
unique from any past labels or other society. There should be no discrimination
individuals. -Raghav Juneja based on morality or ethics on my physical
choices. I shun, surrender and move away
from such hypocrisy.-Aastha Singh

Labeling always destroys one's beliefs and affection, so now is the
time to believe in ourselves and avoid labels to live happily with who
we are and what and whom we love, without any discernment and
that is what I call "Renouncing the label.”

-Prachi Kandpal

"Labels? What? The days you or I'm alive To me, "Renouncing the label" means to be
here on earth, are certainly not enough to confident in what I identify as. It could be
dive through the vibrant universe of a soul. different from what society expects of me,
Labels aren't important, souls are. -Robby but until I love myself and accept myself
the way I am, is what matters. -Navya

Renouncing the label to me is the synonym "Renouncing the label", according to me, is

of acceptance. Acceptance of anything be challenging whatever phrases or words we

it failures, convictions, your own self, etc. have been referring ourselves with. More

-Mudit Tiwari than what others say, we are a victim of

self-criticism in the present time. We take

criticism by others so seriously that we
"Renouncing the label", to me means to forget that it is other's point of view after
accept oneself the way we are, rejecting all and what others think is precarious.
any restricted notions made by society. Renouncing the label is elaborating what
Basically, seeking a place within ourselves makes us special.. -Vaiby
where we don't feel constricted.

-Muskan Aggarwal

17

Interaction with Ankit Bhuptani

LGBTQ+ Rights Activist, Diversity & Inclusion Leader and,
founder of Queer Hindu Alliance

1.What does "Renouncing the LABEL" mean I think the work done by the mainstream media in
to you? the recent past must be acknowledged and they
have gone beyond projecting the stereotypical
"A society without labels is an ideal society." I wish queer character and project the diversity of queer
it was true, not renouncing the label is an ideal character. However, it is not enough. There should
aspiration, if you renounce a particular label you be more and more storytelling platforms by the
will be labeled again as something else. A society mainstream media, where the diversity within the
without labels has never existed in history nor will queer community can be represented. Other than
never exist in the future. Labels will continue to that, there are some positive steps taken in
exist, but we need to ensure the use of these support of the community by the mainstream
labels. Let's take the word "queer", for example. media.
The term "queer" has been used to bully the
community for someone who is out of the box. 3. Many people use to insult the members of
But we took that word and turned it into our own the LGBTQIA+ community by saying indecent
identity and made it more positive. Rather than words, sometimes even including big
getting rid of the label, we accepted it and made it influencers. They get away with that by
more inclusive. Renouncing the label, for me, calling it 'just a joke'. What's your stand on
means not letting go of labels completely and just it?
turning the negative labels into more positive
ones. With any joke, it's impossible not to hurt
someone's sentiments or feelings. Humor is a
2. Mainstream media plays a vital role in form of art where you question someone or
shaping the audience's perspective, but it is the stereotype which exists in society. At the
seen that Indian Cinema has represented end of the day, humor makes you
very few of it, and when done, it's mostly uncomfortable in a very gentle way. First of all,
derogatory and as a medium of humor. we need to be a little sensitive, we cannot
What's your take on it? ignore the fact that there have been some
influential people who are again trying to
I completely agree that the majority of mainstream challenge the progress we have done over the
media has taken the queer community in the years as the queer community. We as a
portrait of a funny character but, some positive society need to be more sensitive, especially
steps are also taken in the last five years like we people holding such huge audiences. Is my
have seen movies and television characters joke helping society grow? Is it taking care of
portraying the queer which shows that a the well-being of society? If the answer is no,
masculine man can fall in love with another they are contributing to spreading more hate,
masculine man and their love is valid too. discrimination, and bullying directly or
indirectly. I think they need to grow up and
have a wider perspective.

18

Interaction with Aruna Desai

one of the founding members of “Sweekar-The Rainbow
Parents”,

1. From a young age, parents, and society For anybody to thrive, a supportive environment is
start feeding children with stereotypical extremely important. And it's the same with a safe
gender roles, like a boy has to be strong and space too, as lack of safe spaces can only hamper
bearing, on the other hand, girls are taught queer persons, and further put them back in the
to be quiet, well mannered, and bounded. closet. Self-confidence and acceptance do not
What do you think can be done to eradicate work the same with everyone. We all have
such mentality and the way children are different backgrounds and upbringing, different
raised? identities, and the challenges that come along with
I think comprehensive sexuality education from a it, one has to face them. It's not a level-playing-
young age is important. It's very critical that the field, so to expect everyone to have "self-
CSE we do with kids helps them understand the confidence and acceptance" is a flawed concept.
basics of gender and sexuality, as well as address
harmful stereotypes that people have about 4. When people talk about the awareness
gender. However, CSE should be done with regarding the LGBTQIA+ community, some
parents as well and not just children. Some homophobic subjects call it a promotion, not,
schools have started sex education for parents as education. How do you think a healthy
well, and I think this should be standard practice conversation can be done with people of
everywhere. such a mind-set?

2. Many times when gay or bisexual people Literally, every story, movie, advertisement,
come out to their friends, a usual response from workplace conversation, chats among young
some of them is "Okay, but I am not like you" or college kids, revolve around cis-heterosexual
"I am completely straight." They don't topics of marriage and dating. Are you married?
understand how much courage the person has Do you have kids? Do you have a
put together to come out, and their friends girlfriend/boyfriend? If you take a walk down the
responding in such an ignorant and derogatory road you will see almost all ads portraying cis-
way affects them. What are your comments on straight couples, or families and kids. Every
this? Bollywood movie revolves around a hero and
First of all, as straight people, we need to understand heroine and their love story. So if none of this is
that when someone comes out to you, it's not about considered as promotion, then why are "queer
you, it's about the person coming out. They're simply people talking about their issues and lives"
informing you something very personal about them, thought of as promotion. We need to stop
not asking for your opinion or permission, nor do assuming everyone is cis-gender and
they want you to be the same way as they are. One heterosexual. To start with, next time you speak to
should be grateful that someone considers them someone try framing a question without assuming
important enough to come out to. their gender or sexuality and you'll gradually see a
shift in your mind-set.
3. Safe Space and a supportive environment is
said to be an important key for members of the
LGBTQIA+ community. There is also the
argument that having self-confidence and
acceptance is what matters. Do you think if not
together, can one exist without the other?

19

DISABLE THE LABEL

NO! I'm not talking about labeling clothes or Written by: Aastha Singh
consumerist obsession. I am referring to labels of B. Com(H), 2nd Year
a social kind i.e. stereotyping.
Sri Aurobindo College. (E)
As humans, we have a natural tendency to sort,
label, and categorize. We divide people into Rather than giving people the equal opportunity to
groups with a common characteristic and give prove their worth, we assign a pre-defined label to
these groups labels. However, labels can narrowly them.
define a person or a community. In our childhood, Humans are complex and to label them is like
we can recognize our parents from other adults. simplifying something so diverse and beautiful.
As we grow older, we develop greater cognitive From topics of gender, socioeconomic status,
skills and label in more complex ways, leaders vs mental health and everything in between would all
followers, true friends from acquaintances, those have fewer issues of stigma and discrimination if
who make good choices versus those who make we all gained more perspective on our actions and
poor ones. our words. We're humans, not items in a
supermarket that need to be slapped with labels.
Let's allow ourselves and others to be free and to
be who we truly are.

So, the next time you catch yourself labeling
anyone, remind yourself, we’re all not so different.
Each one of us wants to be accepted, understood,
and loved for who we are, flaws and all included.

Labeling a group of people with common
characteristics can lead to stereotyping. These
labels can result in unfair judgments about an
individual. Labels can narrowly define people,
robbing them of their individuality even though
they may share a common characteristic with a
group of people such as a religion, skin color,
ethnic heritage, or gender identity. Hence, it can
make an individual feel uncomfortable,
embarrassed, or angry. Negative labeling has a
lasting detrimental impact on people who
experience such prejudice. Since labeling is
related to judgments, it can create stereotypes,
hearsay, fears, bias, stigma, and the inability to
separate a person from the label itself.

20

My coming out story

Written by: Vipul Mendhekar

Architecture student, 3rd year.

Priyadarshini Institute of architectural design, Nagpur Maharashtra

Ever since I was young I have lived life the hard
way. This was the same for "coming out." For my
whole life, I've known that I was different. In
kindergarten, I always played with girls and
sometimes the guys as well, this continued till
Primary school where I would hang out with the
girls. As school went by, I started feeling attracted
to boys in my class. It wasn't until I was 16 that I
started to realize my real self.

Then I moved to another school in 9th grade and I I gave myself time to know and accept myself. I
didn't know anyone. In that school, I was bullied took admission in the architecture design field.
for not admitting that I was gay. After I admitted it, When I first started going through difficulties, my
I started to think long and hard about who I was mentor suggested that I should see the college
and what I wanted to be. I started experimenting counselor. The counselor helped me with a lot of
with the idea that I was in fact, gay. In 10th grade, I things.
told one of my good friends that I was gay and he
said "Yeah, we figured that out." From there it just The one thing I have discovered about coming-out
took off, the word was spread quickly around the is to choose whom you tell.... carefully. Make sure
school. As more people found out I started getting you have some close friends that you can count
bullied again. on because it is a very emotional experience.
Make sure you are ready and don't feel like you
Life since coming out hasn't changed much. As I have to hide who you are because you were born
walk through the school grounds I might get the this way.
comment "Oh, there is the fag", or something
along those lines. I have gone through a couple of
groups of friends, but my two best friends have
stuck beside me and if there was ever a problem
they help me sort it.

But, no matter the response of your coming out, I
think it's really important to have that one person
who knows you and accepts you, and that person
should only be you.

21

MY PHILANTHROPIST GRANDMOTHER

Written by: Karanveer Saini
B.A. (H) English, 2nd year

Sri Aurobindo college evening

I found my grandma,
In the crowd of queers,
Firm 'nd fixated in her journey,
Toward the courtrooms,
Law books in her hands,
Confidence in her voice,
And a clear perception of right and wrong,
Marching with queer folks,
A bright smile on her face,

Pleasing to my eyes.
With the flag of gay pride,
In the First row of the ride,
Oh pãťťi! You are my guide.

I admire you a lot !!
Only one word in her slogans,
That is rights, rights, and rights,
Given two decades of her life,

She is the only bright light.
She fought for our rights

As Gandhi fought,
With the weapon of knowledge in her mind,

She's the grandmother,
And freedom fighter,

Who militate for our rights

22

BEYOUTIFUL

WRITTEN BY: Prerna Chugh.
B.A. (H) English, 1st year.
Sri Aurobindo College(E)

Definition: To the person who is reading this: YES,
YOU! You are beautiful inside-out. It's sad to see
how our society has characterized beauty as a
mere physical factor in a person but trust me it's
much more than that. Beautiful faces can be seen
everywhere, but beautiful minds are hard to find.
It's beautiful to see someone who is going through
the worst and continues to believe in goodness.

We all have heard some sort of comment on our
body, our physical appearances, the way we are,
and the society labeling us. Too thin, too fat, too
fair, too dark, too tall, too short, too exposed, too
covered. It's dis-heartening to see that we all have
a distorted version of beauty in our minds.

The human tendency to not have empathy for
others who are going through hard phases in life
and the constant fear of being judged every single
time makes us question ourselves every time.
When people start commenting and judging, it's
hard to accept ourselves for who we truly are and
at times we don't want to love ourselves for who
we are. It's a constant battle that we have to fight
and yet we fail. It's hard. But when you accept your
flaws and yourself, they no longer have the power
to discourage you in any way. It's your body. It's
your life. I am so proud of the way you have been
handling yourself and working on yourself. You are
beautiful just the way you are. It's okay to be
different. You are your biggest strength.

23

MY WONDERFUL GAY LIFE

Written by: Shashwat Srivastava
Material Management

College of Vocational studies

This is me Joy aka Sugar fudge aka Shashwat. I am Coming out on my Instagram and making it a
a 19-year-old gay kid from Delhi and here is the public account was a huge task though because I
story of my life, in short. was making myself vulnerable to open criticism
and hatred. But it turned out to be the best
Growing up was a tough task not just because you decision of my life.
go through the teenage years but also because
you gotta deal with the changes in your head. I I've always been that not so fond of pictures but
realized my identity by the time I was in 9th grade. having pride in myself and watching queens slay
The coolest guy in my class approached me and the stage at pride events made me strong enough
asked me out which was so not obvious because I to work for where I am today. I started exploring
had never seen a guy date a guy and he looked so with make-up. Make-up became a platform where
straight the entire time. I went home rejecting his I could escape from reality and express myself to
proposal. Even though I thought it to be a joke, I the fullest.
just couldn't get it off my head. So INTERNET
became my savior. It enlightened me about the In a mechanical world, I choose to reflect my
community and that's when all of my childhood moods and vibe through creativity. Being unique
fantasies started to make sense and I realized that and leaving an impact is what I work on, hence I
I was gay. choose my looks wisely. I do follow certain trends
but my versions of them. Despite being self-taught
The first person I came out to was my ex- and all new to the creative-industry with barely
boyfriend (the same guy who asked me out). It was any real client experience I see myself prospering
a positive reaction for obvious reasons and later I with time.
came out to my best friend who was totally cool
with it as well. Eventually, I became interested in Anyway, that's all about me, I am still gay and
letting people know more about me. So I started wonderful and all I do is to create positivity around
speaking about it often, letting my friends and me. Have absolute pride in who you are and love
family know. Of course, there were bullies all your life cause there's enough hate happening
around, there still are, but I gradually started to already.
face them and knock them down with my sass.

24

I am ready

Written by: Sanam Choudhury
Renaissance junior college, 2nd year (H.S)

Sexuality: Lesbian

At the age of 5, my uncle sexually assaulted me I soon met a girl online. It started with a comment
and shut me up by giving me chocolates. After 2 on Facebook. When a notification of her comment
years I started to develop schizophrenia popped up on my picture I instantly felt good. Due
symptoms. I didn't think that I was having mental to my psychiatric problems, I was not a good
health issues. I knew that I was not straight but I conversationalist but with her, I felt very safe, I
thought I was the only one in this whole world who shared everything with her. She pushed me to try
was different as I did not know about this as a every good thing that I was unable to do. I've lost
child until one day when I googled it. all my friends and she was the only one who
supported me. She became my biggest
I was surprised but at the same time, I was so cheerleader. I was very clear about my feelings to
afraid of this society and my family not accepting her from the very beginning but I never forced her
me. I forced myself to be in a relationship with for anything and I was okay about what she
boys. I failed. I felt ashamed of my sexuality. My wanted.
schizophrenia symptoms worsened, I started to
hallucinate figures and blamed it on my movie
obsession. I became obsessed with keeping myself
clean so much so that my hands would bleed.
When my parents took me to the professional, the
psychiatrist said that I was going through
symptoms of OCD, Schizophrenia, and Psychosis
for a minimum of 3 years and I was put on heavy
medication. I decided to write a letter about my
sexuality to my mother. Their reaction was
unpredictable for me. Instead of saying harsh
things to me, my whole family supported me.

After one year I asked her out again and this time
she said yes. I feel very proud to call her my
girlfriend. Her support gave me the courage to
come out to this world. I even attended a Queer
pride rally organized by Xomonnoy in March 2020
and held a banner saying "I'M GAY AND I STAND
PROUD" and posted it to my social media account.
It felt empowering to see people from everywhere
supporting me. I think I'm finally ready to be out
there and support and help those who feel
ashamed of their sexuality and lack knowledge
about this matter.

25

SELF LOVE IS ESSENTIAL

Written by: Abhimanyu Mair
12th Grade

Commerce student

I grew up in a family that has been a part of the 2019 was the best year of my life, I met my people,
armed forces for generations, both my maternal my friends, my chosen family. Until 2020
and paternal sides. For my father, it was always: happened my mom and I were living in Pune alone
"be masculine", "don't walk like that", "join the and when Covid-struck we moved to Goa where
armed forces", "do sports." It was an extremely my dad was posted. It meant I had to come out all
rigid environment. over again and find my people all over again. But I
was successful. There will always be people who
Very early in life, I realized I was gay, I was pretty would accept you and whom you would love.
mature and self-aware that way. I had no
internalized homophobia of any sort. I was bullied
all my early teen-age years for being feminine and
an introvert. I came out to everyone when I was in
10th grade. Everyone was pretty supportive
except for a few individuals. And when I came out
it gave me immense confidence. I wasn't ashamed
to go up to people and make conversation.

I just knew that there are a lot of people who love One of the things that I like about moving to Goa
me and that's never gonna change. However, I is that I finally took a stand. I started loving myself,
could never come out to my parents, whenever I I finally accepted my body as to how it is. I finally
tried they would always dismiss the topic or ignore started wearing clothes that I've always wanted to
me. This made it seem as if they already knew and wear. It's been 2 years since I came out and it's
did not want to acknowledge it. been a long and difficult journey but these 2 years
were when I could finally live my life how I wanted
I was extremely confused about my gender to.
though. I didn't feel completely like a man nor was Queer artists and their songs have helped me
I too much like a woman. I was not comfortable in through some difficult times.
my skin and had dysphoria that would affect my Something Troye said that helped me: "Let
studies and day-to-day life. I recently figured it out. yourself be the person you've secretly always
I identify as a Demiguy. It's the non-binary wanted to be.”
spectrum/scale and uses He/Ze/They pronouns.
Even though I'm open about it, a lot of people
make mistakes and call me a man or male. I'm
alright with them saying boy or guy but something
other than that just makes my dysphoria active.

26

TRANSMISOGENY

Written by: Jahnvi Rishi
B.A. (H) English, 2nd year
Sri Aurobindo College (E)

We, as a civilization, have moved on to the path of Many people look at homosexual couples from a
gender equality, but we are still miles away from heteronormative perspective. They don’t see and
achieving it. Our societal structure is built in such a embrace the individual characteristics; they put
way that men or masculine entities are a subject them into rigid, conservative boxes of femininity
of pride and glory. Patriarchy is very strongly and masculinity. It is not necessary to put
engraved in our social layout. Since ages genders individuals under labels, it hinders fluid and
other than male are considered inferior in many dynamic personalities from flourishing. Every
communities and numerous stereotypes exist for human is different and we can’t just assume that
those genders. we can put all under the few found labels. Ola
Joseph once said, “Diversity is not about how we
Movements like feminism have been trying to wipe differ, it is about embracing one another’s
out the misogynistic aspect of our social setup. uniqueness.” The “+” in the LGBTQIA+ abbreviation
Also, many are advocating for the upliftment of the denotes the diversity in our identities. This
non-binary spectrum of society but they are far community is not a fragment of individuals who
from achieving their objective. The challenges don’t conform to the traditional notions of
faced by the LGBTQIA+ community are sexuality, it is a community that promotes
innumerable. Transmisogyny is the junction of liberalization so that individuals can be who they
cissexism and misogyny. It is an ideology that are and their personality traits can’t overpower the
promotes transphobia, misogyny, and fact that they are HUMAN.
discrimination against trans-women or feminine
entities of this gender-queer spectrum.

The term was coined by Julia Serano in 2007.
According to her “transmisogyny is an
intersectional form of sexism, based on the
interaction between oppositional and traditional
sexism." Transmisogyny makes trans-women face
an extra layer of misogyny. On a social level, they
are more vulnerable than any other segment.
Inequality against women creates so many
obstacles for the females and when they
recognize themselves as non-binary, they face
additional scrutiny from society.

27

COMING OUT IS A JOURNEY

Coming out is never easy for anyone within the Written by: Sushank Chibber
LGBTQIA+ community. Even more so in the South
Asian community, as being gay is still looked down Project Manager
upon. I was unable to fully accept myself for who I
was. I had to be honest with myself first and had CVS Health (Pharmaceuticals)
to learn to love myself unconditionally. When I
achieved this and felt proud of who I was without I made my dad sit down and told him about me
any inhibitions, I finally got the courage to come being gay. I was scared and nervous and kept on
out to my family. mumbling until my sister finally said out loud “He
is Gay.” My dad was quiet for a few seconds but, at
that moment, it felt so much longer. He said, “You
are my son, I love you no matter what and nothing
will ever change that. As long as you are happy
that’s all that matters to me. Yes, as parents we
worry because not everyone is as accepting of
people like you but you have to have the strength
and keep your head up always as you are not any
different from us.” I hugged him and thanked him
for accepting me. This gave me the confidence to
come out to all my friends and family.

I am very fortunate that everyone has been so
supportive and accepting. Not only within my own
family but my fiancés family as well. Everyone
treats me just like they treat him and give me
unconditional love every single day.

I came out to my family and
friends at the age of 29 in 2017,
after I met Mr. Right, my very first
boyfriend. The hardest part for
me was to tell my dad. So I
decided to first tell my twin sister
about me being gay. She
supported me without any
hesitation with all her love.

28

KUCH TOH LOG KAHENGE

From a very young age, the rigid dichotomy of how Written by: Abhinav Dasgupta
society thinks we should function has been drilled 2nd Professional Year, MBBS
into our heads. What men should wear and
women shouldn’t. Who to love and who not to Kasturba Medical College
love. There exists a rule of two that is so deeply
embedded in our systems that we often forget So express yourself. Your truth. Wear what you
that things are not so easily explained- it’s rarely a want, be it clothing and makeup, and wear it with
case of “either this or that.” confidence.
They’re going to stare anyhow.
However, it isn’t that simple to classify something Give them something to talk about.
as “expression” and “art” into the hard cement of
two’s. Art and expression are dynamic,
continuously evolving, and characterized by a
magnitude of changing colors, attitudes, and
ideas.

The conventionally “masculine and feminine”
ideals are a concept that in today’s world, is almost
obsolete. As we have grown, we have become
stronger and braver, enough to start expressing
ourselves with commendable courage. There is
nothing girly and nothing boyish. If you like it,
make it yours, the only thing that exists in your
expression.

29

RENOUNCING THE LABEL

Written by: Mohan Lal Sharma
B.Tech (2013-2017),Electrical Engineer
Arya College of Engineering & Information Technology

The organizations around the world that are
setting particular labels of the identity of
transgenders, lesbians, bisexuals, and gay can be
useful for connecting people globally and
mobilizing people to claim their rights. Several
labels people use to describe their sexual
orientation and their gender look dramatically
different than they used to be. People disagree on
the importance of different labels and whether
anyone wants to use some of them at all. While
some people resist using labels altogether.

Teens might confront someone who says they Such labels should be renounced because they
aren’t allowed to use a label unless they change limit the growth and increase the inferiority
things about how they look or act. This kind of complex of the people belonging to the LGBTQIA+
label or identity policing happens within the community. Being labeled in ways they don't want
LGBTQIA+ community. It can be dreadful for teens to be or being doubted can heap hurt and
and adults alike. Labels can be harmful to frustration on top of a teen who might already be
someone who doesn't want them. Another key struggling to find their place in the world. In
criticism of using the label of the ‘LGBTQIA+ development discourse, those countries that
spectrum’ to describe same-sex desire and gender recognize the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community
non-conformity is that they are too simplistic and are increasingly seen to be more developed,
can't account for the diversity of lived experience enlightened, and even more civilized.
across space and time. For example, research has
shown the huge variation in the terms used to
describe different forms of sexual orientation and
gender identity around the world. Despite the
increase in social acceptance of the members of
the LGBTQIA+ community around the world,
coming out is still scary and hard for anyone at
any age. Being labeled by other people, even if the
label fits, takes away teens’ right to say for
themselves how they understand their gender and
sexual identities when they’re ready to say it.

30

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TEAM GENDER CHAMPIONS

WE ARE THE CHANGE.
WE ARE THE HOPE.
WE ARE HUMANS, ONE AND FOR ALL.

-NIRAJ KEJARIWAL

Follow us on:
@genderchampions.sace