Yesterday we marched in first-ever Chennai LGBT Pride Parade. Although India has a long history of socially and religiously recognizing more than two genders, sexual minorities are still discriminated against and can be prosecuted under Section 377 of the penal code (a hold-over from those restrictive Victorian-era British mores).
I made my way down to Marina Beach with Michelle and Fatima (roommates) and Juhi (a co-worker) to the beginning of the at the Triumph of Labor statue. A small crowd of marchers was gathered, surrounded by a larger crowd of reporters for all manner of media. It took a while to get started – especially because every few feet a row of cameramen would stop the crowd to take shots and interview marchers. The heat was unbelievable at 4pm, but the crowd was enthusiastic and everyone had a great time. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. Would the onlookers be supportive, or jeer to marchers or worse? There were quite a few gathered just for the curiosity of watching the march, but most seemed to me to be positive towards the group. I did my best to repeat that chants in Tamil, and show my support for equal rights.
I'm borrowing a few shots here from the lovely Michelle. See more of her great shots here.
I love the man peeking out from under the right corner of my umbrella in this photo
1 comment:
They heard you.
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