LGBTQI+ Social Protection and Human Rights

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We still can’t breathe the air of freedom. Why such kind of discrimination?


No matter who you are, where you are from, your skin colour, your gender identity, all this doesn’t matter. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex (LGBTQI) are also a part of us; our society. It is their sexual preference and that does not make them any different from others. Every individual has a specific behavior specific mindset, which differs from one another.

Article 15 of our Indian Constitution is based on the prohibition of discrimination on the grounds of cast, creed, religion, sex, place of birth, etc. If the so-called ‘normal/ straight’ men and women have the right to live in the society with respect, then why the people belonging to LGBTQI+ society can’t? They face violence and inequality; they get tortured, why? 


Sexual orientation and gender identity are integral aspects of ourselves and should never lead to discrimination or abuse. 

Human Rights works for LGBTQI+ peoples’ right, advocate for laws and policies that will protect everyone’s dignity. Yet, due to strongly held cultural and social norms surrounding gender expression and sexuality, LGBTQI+ people are often excluded. The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) recognize this, stating, “Social and legal discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and intersex, is pervasive”.


However, some nations have passed legislation to help protect some of these communities’ and individuals’ right to social protection. A human rights-based approach to social protection, and the development of social protection floors, can transform the lives of LGBTQI+ people, helping make all societies inclusive ones in which all members fully participate, and in which no one is left behind.


Love sees no gender. Equality means not judging someone for who they are and whom they love. Be the you, you have always been, Proudly. Love comes in all colours. 


GAURI SAWANT, a transgender activist who emerged victorious against society. Being born in a conservative life as GANESH

SAWANT, the journey wasn't a piece of cake. This journey has given life to new people. After his mother's demise, at the age of 9, Ganesh realized that he was different from others. As a child, he was effeminate and more inclined towards female gender.

After being mocked, bullied by classmates he was befuddled with his own sexuality. From wearing saree and applying make-up behind the curtains, Ganesh turned himself as GAURI SAWAN, a victorious transgender. After struggling with her own family, she managed to gather the courage and leave her house to stand for herself. With the help of Humsafar Trust, she underwent a transition.

She is a woman to think beyond herself. Against from the society, who isn't tolerant towards transgender, she provided the freedom to all them for this she started her own NGO, SAKSHI CHAR CHOWGHI in 2000. She is an individual who chose to live her life according to her wishes.


KARL HEINRICH ULRICHS was a civil servant in Germany until he was forced to resign in 1854 on account of his homosexuality.

He became an activist and published 12 volumes of work about sexuality, including what’s believed to be the first theory about homosexuality. He argued that it is an ‘inborn condition’ not a learned corruption - as was the prevailing wisdom at the time.

Ulrichs is thought to have been the first gay person to publicly speak out for homosexual rights. In 1867, he urged the German government to repeal anti-homosexuality laws, which firmly established himself as the pioneer of the gay rights movement.


Ace sprinter, DUTEE CHAND is the India's first athlete to acknowledge her lesbian relationship. When Indian Supreme Court decided to decriminalize LGBTQ in 2018, she was encouraged to speak publicly about her sexuality and relationship. She faced a severe backlash from her home village after her decision came out. Though her personal life disturbed her professional life but that didn't derail her from her aim. The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and Sports Authority of India (SAI) were supportive because they didn't want to mix professional life with personal life. She knew her goal. 

She is the first Indian to win gold medal in women's 100-metre sprint at 30th Summer University Games in Naples, Italy and she broke her own record in 100-metre race. She was also chosen as the Sportsmen of Year 2019 by VOGUE India. She has always been focused on her goal rather than listening to what society tells about her sexuality.


Everyone should have the freedom to be with whomever they decide they want to be with. Everyone wants to be happy in their life with one's they love and gender can't decide whom to love.

We are advancing towards 2021 and it’s high time that we create a world where all people can be treated equally and can enjoy their rights fully. 


-Akshara Agarwal


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