Background

It is generally known that even when the law recognises someone as an equal, they are not necessarily recognised as such in the minds of others whom they live with as a result. This is well illustrated in India's handling of its LGBTQ+ community. Despite the fact that homosexuality is no longer a crime in India, Indian individuals and legislation continue to be hostile and discriminatory against the LGBT community in a number of ways.

On September 6, 2018, India overturned a statute from the colonial era that criminalised homosexuality. Although there was reason for joy, it has been observed that it did little to affect the opinions of the general population over time. Soon after, The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019 was passed, and protests against it erupted nationwide for it’s discriminatory nature. 

NCERT published a teachers' training booklet on the integration of transgender or gender nonconforming kids in schools in 2021, but quickly removed it. 

All of these examples, and many more, demonstrate that the need of the hour extends beyond simple legislative adjustments. Active advocacy and representation are required. Laws have failed to modify people's attitudes regarding sexuality, resulting in a whole demography feeling excluded and ostracized from society for just existing.

Love, justice, and freedom are crucial to an egalitarian world. Nonetheless, discrimination, hatred, and intolerance infest society, making some people vulnerable to becoming victims of oppression. Although many people in India identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community, it is extremely hard to open up and talk about it. When they do talk about it, they are often misunderstood or misrepresented. Most individuals choose to remain silent about their sexuality, and those who do speak out are often shunned and subjected to hate campaigns and humiliation.

Attempts to correct this are frowned upon and discouraged. As a result, the group is much more prone to exploitation by law enforcement or governance. Even when exposed to unjust treatment, there is no option to resist or demand equitable treatment, making this persecution one of the most cruel in the world.

Against this background, The GAP (Gender Advocacy Project), an LGBTQ+ rights and advocacy initiative, was created with the hope of creating a kinder, better world for everyone.