BENGALURU: “Being disabled means, more than half of the people think I am asexual for some reason,” laughs Madhumitha Venkataraman, an ally of the queer community. Born with left side paralysis, Madhumita today works towards creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all.
“This year’s Pride March will be made accessible for LGBTQ folks and allies with disabilities,” she says.
People of multiple organisations with disabilities will join the Pride March in KickStart cabs. There will also be a sign language interpreter with the group at the Pride March and during the cultural programme later in the night.
Is Your Workspace Queer friendly?
Other than KickStart cabs, are there other companies coming in to back the Pride March.
Ayaan Syed says, his former company Accenture and his current firm Microsoft, both are supportive of him coming out as gay.
“But some of my queer friends at startups in the city do complain about workplace discrimination,” he says.
“When we call up asking organisations asking if they are willing to hire qualified transgender persons as receptionists, the first question they ask is, ‘Is the person attractive looking?’ It is just sad,” says Romal Laisram.