#CMCOpinions

The LGBTQ community finding it’s voice through Gaylaxy!

Can SILENCE create change?
In a society where voices are cut off before they can mushroom and reach out to the masses, we are a part of that chapter in time where gender identity issue has sprouted conversations across this globe. The fight for acceptance and to simply be themselves has led the LGBTQ community to unite and bring about a change in the society that wears blinkers to the reality.

It is imperative that the student community gathers enough insight on LGBTQ issues so that they can go on and create an atmosphere of gender inclusiveness at their workplaces. On the account of World Silence Day, which takes place in order to raise awareness about the silencing effect of anti-LGBT bullying, harassment and discrimination, we held a session on understanding India’s India’s largest free online LGBT magazine- Gaylaxy.

The event was graced by Sachin Jain, who is the Hindi editor of Gaylaxy Magazine. Students were introduced to the concept of LGBTQ and several issues that are faced by the people within the community. The combat that occurs within our culture which makes it difficult for families / individuals to come to terms with such a situation, propelled the thought of Gaylaxy.

Discussing several stories with them and why a platform was essential for this community to share these stories, Sachin Jain explained our students, that it hasn’t been an easy ride. In a country where the laws are extremely stringent and freedom of expression doesn’t find a complete vent, it was challenge to make Gaylaxy happen. Not only was that the only point of hurdle; but given the fact that in India we are a majority of Hindi speaking population, it was crucial to have the stories delivered in the same language. Ever since its inception, there has been no looking back for Gaylaxy. It has gone onto become a wonderful place to share and bring the community together in many ways. The LGBTQ community felt they had a voice and weren’t silenced anymore. Building a society of inclusion also meant, developing a vocabulary that made conversations around this subject matter more understandable. These simple initiatives continue to bring transformation and lead the LGBTQ community to find their light.

The student-led movement across the globe, as World Silence Day, has been able to tug at the strings of our thoughts and make us more aware as individuals that ‘Silence’ can surely create a change.