Chennai goes Purple to support LGBTIQA+ people

CHENNAI:
Chennai marked 'Wear It Purple Day’ to foster safe, inclusive and empowering environments for LGBTIQA+ people. The event was hosted by Australia, which is an active proponent of the rights of LGBTQIA+ people.

Kalki Subramaniam, transgender activist, artist and writer highlighted the need for LGBTQIA+ people to be treated with dignity. "We live in times where stereotypes on gender and sexuality are broken and shattered. Young LGBTQI persons need to validate their identities without shame and with pride," she said.

“We are proud to host this initiative and bring Wear It Purple Day to Chennai. ” said Australian Consul-General Sarah Kirlew. "Supporting diversity and inclusion is an important part of the work that we do at the Consulate. We have also funded the work of local institutions like Orinam and SAATHI in Chennai through our Direct Aid Program; and worked with media organisation to educate journalists on sensitive LGBTQIA+reporting. Officers in my Consulate join the Chennai Pride march in June” she added.

Australia amended its Marriage Act on 9 December 2017 to give same-sex couples the same right to marry as heterosexual couples. In March 2023, Sydney hosted WorldPride and many senior leaders joined the city’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade, including the Prime Minister of Australia.

Demonstrating support for young people facing discrimination on the basis of their gender identity or sexuality Australia’s Wear It Purple Day is now celebrated around the world.