2023

Jan Sunwai

Organised on 1st April, 2023, by the People's Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) and the National Network of LBI (Lesbian, Bisexual , Intersex) Women and Trans Persons, JAN SUNWAI  was a closed-door Public Hearing on Familial Violence perpetrated upon Queer Trans People. 

A press-conference was ensued on 3rd April, 2023 wherein the panelists who were present during JAN SUNWAI spoke on behalf of all the petitioners. 

Jan Sunwai, for us, was a pavement to unfurl the voices of the queer and trans folx who face immense violence from their assigned families to the fore. The precarity of queer and trans life prevents many from speaking openly to the media. A public hearing in front of an eminent panel (although behind closed doors for security and secrecy) was our method of ensuring that these views and concerns were heard by the greater public. 

One of the reasons for planning a closed door hearing was our desire to include participants from a wide range of margins. We realised that while an open door hearing would be a better tactic for raising attention and making some noise, it would discourage the most vulnerable people from coming forward, and those stories needed to be heard. 

These views and concerns are critical, and were heard during the recent conversations about the rights of queer and trans people, as well as the questions raised about Marriage Equality in the Supreme Court on 25th April 2023.

Porshi

'Porshi' - An initiative by Sappho for Equality is a training centre with qanteen (canteen) facilities, located in the heart of Kolkata - Jodhpur Park. As a result of collaborative efforts of talented individuals from the Gender-Sexual Marginalized (GSM) community; Porshi stands as a testament of a collective safe space and welcoming environment for Queer-Trans* individuals who seek connection. growth and empowerment. Porshi values the diversity of artistic expression through encouraging people to express themselves in a variety of ways. It gives a platform for self-expression through gig events, stand-up comedy, dancing, music, theatre, and any other art form. Despite its small seating capacity, the centre cordially welcomes community gatherings, meetings, and events, and charges a little fee for the wonderful and budget-friendly regional food offered in the cafeteria.    Porshi maintains a loving and green environment with an abundance of potted plants, producing a healthy and calm ambiance, in addition to its creative offers. This co-working facility not only supports skill development, but also offers free Wi-Fi and an extensive library that goes deeply into the rich history of Queer & Trans* communities. Porshi's goal with these tools is to provide individuals with information that will allow them to advance in their personal and professional lives.