Out of the closet with dignity, pride

Queer Pride Parade

“In India the LGBT people are dehumanised to an extent that violence and discrimination has become an inherent part of their lives. This harassment which people are subjected to, just because of their sexual orientation, is unjust and must stop.”
Suridhi Sharma
Research scholar

“We are somewhat privileged to come out onto the streets and express ourselves, The Queer Parade is important for the LGBT people living in small towns as events like these gives them some hope that they aren’t alone.”
Nipun Arora
Student

“When I was leaving my apartment, I had a feeling that people who oppose the LGBT movement will be piling up, but I am overwhelmed to see the crowds here. I have never witnessed such a positive atmosphere during my time in India.”
Lexi
German teacher

“Last year’s Supreme Court judgement has made the community wake up to the need of taking care of itself. Our rights are not separate, special or unique. They are tied up with everyone’s right under the Constitution of India.”
Gautam Bhan
Professor/ LGBT activist


“There is a climate of clampdown on sexual minorities and sexuality itself. The Queer Parade is a statement on behalf of the LGBT community that this culture repression will have to end. We will ensure that our rights will not be taken away.”
Manak Matyani
Trainer and consultant


“I came to the Queer Parade to support my friends. But more importantly, I came here because at the core of the LGBT movement lies the principle of equality. Right to dignity is very fundamental to humans, irrespective of the fact that they are gay or straight.”
Zuha Junaidi
Student


“Many of my colleagues who were thinking to come out went back into the closest after the Supreme Court judgment. They don’t want to be labelled as criminals. But given the crowds that came to the parade will encourage such people to be more vocal about their
sexuality.”
Raj Jain
Communication Officer

“Our mere existence is an amusement for many here. We can’t just sit back and wait for people to change their mindsets. It doesn’t happen like that, we have to continue our struggle.”
Rudrani Chetri
LGBT activist