Itanagar: Several issues like social stigma, taboo and inequality faced by the queer community in Arunachal Pradesh were discussed at length during the 5th meetup of AP Queer Station at the Sango Village Complex here on Sunday.
The theme of the daylong event was ‘True LGBTQIA+ Allyship’.
Among the prominent guests to attend the event this time was noted writer and academician Dr Jamuna Bini who educated the participants about the existence of the queer community in olden times.
She also cited examples and references to queer characters in Indian history as well as in Indian mythology.
Further extending her love and support to the LGBTQIA+ community of the state, Dr Bini promised to continue to work for their betterment in the days to come.
The event also witnessed technical sessions on “Mental Health Issues” and “Legal Rights and Protection” of the community members which were conducted by psychologist Yuma Narah and advocate Ebo Mili respectively.
The story-sharing session saw one Lo Nalo, an active member of the AP Queer Station narrate the story of his coming out as a trans man and the struggles he faced in daily life because of his gender identity, expression and sexuality.
A poetry session was also a part of the event in which Arunachal Pradesh Literary Society (APLS) members and noted poets Chasoom Bosai and Wanggo Socia recited powerful poems dedicated to the LGBTQIA+ people of the state.
The programme concluded with a fashion show where members of the AP Queer Station as well as the allies who participated in the meet up walked the ramp.
The ‘meetup’ was attended by more than 100 queer individuals and their well wishers.
The AP Queer Station team led by queer activist Sawang Wangchha have extended their gratitude to Kipa Tarang, the managing director of Sango Village and his staff for providing a safe space to conduct the event.
Also read: Sensitisation program on LGBTQ+ rights mark gay pride month
