Breaking Barriers: Ladakh holds Transgender* Awareness and Inclusion Program

Leh, October 19, 2024: Department of Social and Tribal Welfare in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India organises an outreach programme on Transgender – Identities and Inclusion. The event held at The Pal featured Don Hasar (She/They), a Queer Trans* Rights Activist and Cultural Resistance Worker as the key speaker.  

The programme started with an introduction on the theme by Gender Specialist, Mission Shakti Deachen Angmo, followed by a welcome speech from Director, Social and Tribal Welfare UT Ladakh Tashi Dolma. She emphasised on the need of such outreach programme in fostering a sensitive and inclusive society.  
Commissioner Secretary, Social and Tribal Welfare Department, UT Ladakh Padma Angmo (IIS) highlighted the pressing need for awareness on gender related topics. She mentioned that it is important to engage with the transgender community to understand their challenges and problems and work towards specific interventions that they need.

Don Hasar delivered a presentation on the complexities of gender and how it functions in our lives and how we see it. She also interacted with the participants and got engaged into a detailed discussion. Hasar also shed light on the Transgender* Discource and Trans* Act 2019 along emphasising on the key aspects of the Act. Additionally, she discussed the vital role of Educational Insitutions and Safe Spaces in promoting inclusivity.

The event featured short films and a survey documentary along with a musical performance by singer KKT.The event saw a huge participation from women organisation of different religions, stakeholders from politics, educational institutions, medical/ health facilities, Ladakh Police and many others who enthusiastically attended the programme.

The outreach program marks a significant step towards promoting understanding, acceptance and inclusion of transgender community in Ladakh.