-Chandigarh : In order to carry forward the theme of “Advocacy, Rights and Reforms with the LGBTQIA+ Community for an Inclusive World”, a roundtable conference was organised in Chandigarh. Attendees included representatives from the government, legal professionals, civil society, media, medical professionals, educationists, college students, social activists and LGBTQIA+ community members, who participated in the conference which was held with support from the British Deputy High Commission, Chandigarh, and organized by the Hyderabad based NGO, Rubaroo, to promote social inclusion.
Opening the event, Caroline Rowett, Deputy High Commissioner at the British Deputy High Commission, Chandigarh, reiterated the UK Government’s commitment to building societies in which safety, opportunity and respect are guaranteed for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
“This conference isn’t only talk; it’s a forum for serious action and co-creation. It is a time to listen, to learn and — perhaps most importantly — to act. “Together, let’s open the doors and take the steps to create a more inclusive society — one where diversity is embraced, where safety and value are universal, and where opportunity is not equal, but equitable.
Besides Rakesh Popli, PCS officer, who was a special guest of the roundtable, Shipra Bansal, Chairperson of Chandigarh Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CCPCR) was also present at the event and spoke to the participants.
The venue of the conference was pivotal as a positive space for LGBTQIA+ rights activists and community members, as well as scholars, advocates, and representatives of civil society, to constructively meet and strategise about ways to move forward. They exchanged knowledge, experiences and strategies to help overcome the barriers of your LGBTQIA+ inclusion and progress your rights.
The discussion highlighted the need for collective action and collaboration to create an environment in which all people feel safe, valued, and respected. All stakeholders who participated in the talks shown their determination in creating a more inclusive and fair society for all.
