The transgender community has undergone tremendous struggles over the last few decades, and it is only now that they have platforms at which to air their problems, said transgender writer Priya Babu.
Ms. Babu was speaking at the Transgender Day celebrations organised by the Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers and Artists Association.
“What transgenders primarily need now is acceptance from their respective families and the society. We are still awaiting a proper government order that gives us a proper identity. We should be informed whether we will be classified under the female or a third gender category,” she said.
Though there is a welfare board for transgenders, it needs to be much more active and a commission has to be set up to look into the issues and problems faced by transgenders, Ms. Babu said.
“Both in the field of education and employment, we need reservations so that those with potential can rise,” she said.
Observing that the community did not have proper representation either at the State or the Centre, she said that this was essential to have their voices heard and their demands fulfilled.
“Getting a house on rent, which is a basic necessity, is a great challenge for transgenders,” she added. They should be able to live with the rest of the population in peace. If this feat is accomplished, it may be one of our biggest victories,” she said.
N. Balakrishnan of the Association said that transgenders should not be discriminated against but made to feel part of the community.
“Five years ago, we organised a forum where several transgenders spoke about their problems. It was only then that we realised the sufferings they undergo on a daily basis. It was then that we decided to raise these issues and bring them to the fore,” he said.
