KOCHI: Three organisations working for the welfare of the transgender community joined hands on Tuesday to observe the ‘Transgender Day of Remembrance’ at Durbar Hall ground here.
The event, which was conducted by the organisations Dhwaya, Marvel and Queerala, attracted the attention of a large section of the public. A march and candle light vigil arranged by 30 members of the transgender community along with their supporters commemorated the lives which were taken in the cruelty meted out to the community.
“The Transgender Day of Remembrance was started in 1999 to remember Rita Hester, a transwoman who was murdered in Massachusetts, US. Even after 18 years, harassment and rough treatment against members of the transgender community is still an issue. We need space in society and we are fighting to live like others. Falling prey to unnecessary verbal and physical abuse is leading to the death of several members of the transgender community. Society is taking our right to live,” said Ranju Ranjimar, a makeup artist in the film industry and a member of Dhwaya.
“But there are people who accept us, especially the youth and it is a ray of hope. Members of the community are struggling to get what they deserve and some are winning,” said Ranju. District Collector K Mohammed Y Safirulla and Lalithakala Akademi chairman Sathyapal attended the event.