Gender & Sexually Diverse (GSD) Communities
The lives of GSD individuals and communities are rich with complexities stemming from, in part, the social positioning within a heteronormative patriarchal societal structure. Due to these complexities and their relationship to gender-based and sexual violence, we have identified a need to bring forward research regarding the nuances of such violence within GSD populations and inspire appropriate actions to address this complex issue working with different, relevant stakeholders.
Because we strongly believe that all individuals have equal rights, including the right to safety and dignity. We include a discussion on these issues in all our sessions on sexuality education from grade 6 onwards.
We strive to be sex-positive, gender-sensitive and queer-affirming.
We avoid the use of sexual binary and gendered language as far as possible.
We work towards the area of empowerment of sexual minorities that include:
Working with School and College Students
#CatchinThemYoung - we engaged with the young minds as they are open to learn the right thing at their right age, so they don't necessarily unlearn like many of the grownups. We discuss the development, variations and diversity in sexual and reproductive systems, sexual orientation and gender identity from grade 6 onwards. We also discuss the myths and facts associated with the LGBTQIA+ community and help students develop empathy by narrating real-life examples.
Collaboration with NGOs that work for LGBTQIA+ community
Helping Work Culture with Inclusive Policy
We take our volunteers, interns and field work students as part of our collaborative theme to interact with the community members and invites members of the community to conduct interactive session to sensitize our team for inclusive policies and approaches to be adapted in our works.
We help workspaces draft their Prevention of Sexual Harassment Policies to be gender diverse and inclusive and propose a monthly calendar themed engagement activity plan for their employees. We conduct sessions for management, leaders, managers, employees who are looking for support, guidance and information in this area, or are welcoming a colleague from the LGBTQIA+ community.
Consultations for Government Agencies for Inclusion
We train and build capacity for stakeholders at Governance and Administration in curating Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity Practies, enabling them to be more welcome and friendlier to GSD Communities. We have done consultations in the process of recruitment of GSD People in certain departments.
Resource Development for inclusion of GSD Communities
We have developed and supported in the curriculum works for SCERT and Higher Educational Institutions offering a scientific, empowering explanation for inclusion and representation of GSD Communities to foster respect and acceptance of our differences.