Tag: pride

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Community Lite Blogs

Mumbai Queer Pride March 2024 Set for February 3rd

The Mumbai Queer Pride March 2024 is scheduled to take place on February 3, organised by Mumbai Queer Pride (MQP), a collective of Queer (LGBTQIA+) individuals and organisations. The march will begin at 3 PM, next to August Kranti Maidan, the historic site of the Quit India movement.

The Mumbai Queer Pride March is:

•             A celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community’s diversity and resilience

•             A call for action on the issues and challenges we face

•             A demand for rights like marriage equality and adoption for queer persons

•             A demand for strong anti-discrimination and anti-violence laws

•             A demand to set up functional Welfare Boards and Councils for protecting & furthering the rights of Transgender persons

•             A demand to end stigma & discrimination against people living with HIV and provide them with access to health care, education, employment, housing, etc. 

•             A call to immediately end discrimination, abuse and violence of all sorts.

The march will feature volunteers, activists, artists, thinkers, movie makers, actors, and allies from various other social movements, as well as parents, teachers, students, and corporate goers supporting the above causes and beyond. The march is preceded by a month-long calendar of events, including workshops for advocacy and education, panel discussions, film screenings, book readings, performances and many more.

The MQP welcomes the participation and solidarity of intersectional movements in the march. The organisers highlight that the upcoming Pride March is for LGBTQIA+ Pride and the Causes that intersect with it, and the attendees’ posters and messages need to reflect that.

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Community Lite Blogs

Challenging societal norms through clothing 

We have all witnessed the evolving landscape of fashion, where our wives, daughters, and women, in general, are breaking free from the confines of gender-specific clothing…reports Asian Lite News

In recent years, there has been a remarkable shift in the perception and expression of gender identity, both globally and in India. One powerful aspect of this movement is the rise of gender-neutral clothing, which enables individuals to dress in a way that aligns with their own unique identity, rather than conforming to societal expectations.

The market demand for gender-neutral clothing has been steadily rising. According to a report by GlobalData, the global gender-neutral fashion market was valued at $27 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.5 percent from 2020 to 2027. No wonder, many mainstream fashion brands have started to incorporate gender-neutral collections into their offerings

We have all witnessed the evolving landscape of fashion, where our wives, daughters, and women, in general, are breaking free from the confines of gender-specific clothing. They proudly showcase their prowess in un-gendering fashion and embrace a more fluid and inclusive approach to their attire. Let us take a serious look at how gender-neutral clothing is revolutionizing the fashion industry and creating a more inclusive world for the global LGBTQA+ community, including the vibrant community in India.

Breaking Free from Gender Stereotypes

For far too long, fashion has been confined by rigid gender norms, dictating what is considered appropriate attire for men and women. Gender-neutral clothing defies these stereotypes by offering a more fluid and versatile approach to personal style. It encourages individuals to express themselves authentically without the fear of judgment or exclusion based on societal expectations. By rejecting the idea that clothing should be limited to specific genders, we open the doors to a world where self-expression is celebrated and diversity is embraced.

Empowering Self-Expression

Gender-neutral clothing empowers individuals to define their own sense of style, free from the constraints of gender norms. It provides a platform for creative expression, allowing people to mix and match different styles, colours, and silhouettes without feeling restricted by the gender binary. This freedom to experiment with fashion not only enhances personal expression but also encourages self-acceptance and boosts self-confidence. It enables individuals to present themselves authentically, fostering a sense of belonging within the LGBTQA+ community and beyond.

Gender Neutral Clothing Ensures Inclusivity for All

The impact of gender-neutral clothing extends far beyond the LGBTQA+ community. It promotes inclusivity for people of all genders, including those who identify as non-binary, genderqueer, or genderfluid. By challenging the notion that clothing should be limited to masculine or feminine designs, fashion becomes a more accessible and welcoming space for everyone. This revolution is gradually dismantling the barriers that have long separated fashion by gender, allowing people to wear what they love and feel comfortable in, regardless of societal expectations.

How to Further Generate Education and Awareness?

Social media platforms have played a significant role in popularizing gender-neutral fashion. Influencers and activists on platforms like Instagram and TikTok have created a space for discussions, fashion inspiration, and sharing of gender-neutral outfits. This online community has contributed to the normalisation and acceptance of gender-neutral clothing. Thus, now it comes to basic education – schools, media, and communities can play a vital role in providing comprehensive information about gender diversity and celebrating individuality. By incorporating these topics into curricula, workshops, and public discussions, we can create a generation that is more accepting and understanding of different gender expressions.

What is the Fashion Industry’s Role?

The fashion industry plays a pivotal role in driving societal change and fostering inclusivity. In recent years, many designers, brands, and retailers have embraced the concept of gender-neutral clothing. They are not only creating collections that cater to diverse gender identities but also challenging the existing norms by featuring genderqueer models and dismantling traditional fashion presentations. This industry-wide support is instrumental in breaking down stereotypes and promoting acceptance on a global scale.

Design Innovation Amid Gender-Inclusive Sizing and Retail

Fashion designers will continue to push boundaries and explore innovative designs that cater to diverse gender identities. Materials and technologies will advance, allowing for garments that are both stylish and adaptable, accommodating different body types and preferences. Customizable and modular clothing will become more prevalent, enabling individuals to express their unique identities through personalized fashion choices. The fashion industry will move away from the traditional binary sizing system, recognizing the need for gender-inclusive measurements.

Inclusive Representation at Fashion Events

The future of fashion will embrace greater diversity and representation. Designers, brands, and retailers will prioritize inclusivity in their campaigns, fashion shows, and advertisements. Unlike a handful of Rainbow Fashion shows today, the future will have a wider range of LGBTQA+ models who will showcase diverse gender identities, body types, ages, and cultural backgrounds. This inclusive representation will foster a sense of belonging and promote self-acceptance within the LGBTQA+ community and beyond.

Gender-neutral clothing represents a significant step towards challenging societal norms and fostering inclusivity. By breaking free from traditional gender expectations, individuals can express themselves authentically and confidently. Let us continue to support and embrace the global LGBTQA+ community, advocating for a world where everyone can dress and live without fear of judgment or exclusion. 

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-Top News Community UK News

UK celebrates a decade of NYC Pride

Dancers Brandon Lawrence and Tzu Chao Chou, also of the Birmingham Royal Ballet, joined the Consulate team on Sunday’s march, performing alongside the float for an audience of an estimated 1 million spectators…reports Asian Lite News

The UK officially celebrated NYC Pride for a 10th consecutive year this month represented by the British Consulate General New York.

The UK has long been at the forefront of promoting LGBTQ+ rights globally, and in 2013 became first ever foreign government to formally participate in New York’s Pride March, which is the largest of its kind in North America, and ranks among the largest Pride events in the world.

The event commemorates the first gay rights march, held in NYC on 28 June 1970, which celebrated the first anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising – a series of protests by members of the gay community in 1969 that transformed the 20th century fight for LGBT+ rights in the United States.

The British Consulate’s float at this year’s march featured Union Jacks rendered in the colours of the LGBT+ flag, as well as traditional British telephone boxes, the GREAT campaign’s Pride slogan: “love is for everyone”, and a sound system playing iconic British artists from the Spice Girls to Amy Winehouse.

Deputy Consul General Hannah Young said: “Having the freedom to love who you love – and to be yourself – with pride, is not only a central British value, but also an essential component of modern democracy.”

“I am so proud to be participating in New York Pride again this month, the 10th consecutive year for the British Consulate, celebrating the progress that has been made as well as acknowledging the challenges we still face.”

“The United Kingdom stands at the forefront of the ongoing fight for LGBT+ rights, which is why we at the Consulate are so pleased to have marched alongside fellow New Yorkers once again in one of the biggest Pride events in the world.”

In addition to participating in Sunday’s New York Pride March, the Consulate hosted a cultural showcase reception at the British Residence on Friday, at which dancers Jack Easton and Regan Hutsell of the Birmingham Royal Ballet performed live for an audience of Consulate staff, partner organisations, media and guests.

Dancers Brandon Lawrence and Tzu Chao Chou, also of the Birmingham Royal Ballet, joined the Consulate team on Sunday’s march, performing alongside the float for an audience of an estimated 1 million spectators.

The UK has invested over £11m in programmes to support the promotion and protection of LGBT+ rights across the Commonwealth since 2018, and in June 2022, announced £2.7m in new funding at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting to support grassroots LGBT+ human rights defenders.

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Films Lite Blogs

Celebrate Pride Month’s universal language of love

The Oscar-winning masterpiece ‘Moonlight’ by Barry Jenkins is a breathtaking and in-depth examination of identity, sexuality, and self-discovery. The three-part movie follows the hardships of Chiron, a young Afro-American man, as he comes to terms with his sexuality…reports Asian Lite News

It is the perfect time to check out the wide variety of LGBTQ+ films in honour of Pride Month. Over the years, the film industry has produced several exceptional queer-centered films that have touched viewers, prompted discussions, and helped to advance an inclusive culture. These five videos are a must-watch for everyone who identifies with this community or who considers themselves an ally and captures the universal language of love in a beautiful way.

‘Paris is Burning’ (1990)

The breakthrough film “Paris is Burning” by Jennie Livingston offers a vibrant and compelling glimpse of New York City’s ball culture in the late 1980s. In the ballroom scene, the film shows the inventiveness, persistence, and sense of community among Latino and Afro-American LGBTQ+ individuals. The movie not only champions the idea of uniqueness, but it also highlights the issues brought on by the intersectionality of identities.

‘Pride’ (2014)

Pride,’ a moving comedy-drama from director Matthew Warchus based on a true story, is set in 1984 during the UK miners’ strike. The film follows an unforeseen relationship between a small Welsh mining community and a group of LGBT activists. The movie “Pride” is an excellent illustration of how acceptance, tolerance, and the ability to rise above prejudice can be tremendous forces. This film serves as a timely reminder that cooperation may overcome differences that at first seem insurmountable because of its great ensemble cast and upbeat atmosphere. It has a great cast all together and a happy vibe.

‘Carol’ (2015)

The 1950s are the setting of Todd Haynes’ visually stunning and captivating film “Carol.” This film adaption of Patricia Highsmith’s novel “The Price of Salt” centres on an illicit relationship between two women named Carol and Therese. Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara give a fascinating performance that explores the themes of love, longing, and the daring to challenge social rules while capturing the complexities of desire and cultural restraints.

‘Moonlight’ (2016)

The Oscar-winning masterpiece ‘Moonlight’ by Barry Jenkins is a breathtaking and in-depth examination of identity, sexuality, and self-discovery. The three-part movie follows the hardships of Chiron, a young Afro-American man, as he comes to terms with his sexuality. “Moonlight” leaves a lasting impression on the spectator by showcasing the power of empathy, resiliency, and the complexities of love through superb acting and stunning cinematography.

‘Call Me by Your Name’ (2017)

Luca Gudadagnino’s calming coming-of-age tale, “Call Me By Your Name,” is set in Northern Italy in the summer of 1983. Elio (Timothée Chalamet), a seventeen-year-old child, and Oliver (Armie Hammer), a more senior PhD student staying with his family, form a strong bond that is explored in the film. Outstanding performances by Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer brilliantly depicted the challenges of sexual exploration and the fleeting nature of genuine love.

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Fashion Lite Blogs

AIKYA, a fusion of western silhouettes with Indian touch

The designer’s signature style is playful and youthful, featuring custom-made prints and Kutch embroidery, inspired by Gujarat and Rajasthan, blended harmoniously with western silhouettes…reports Asian Lite News

Celebrated Couturier Mayyur Girotra in collaboration with Pride at Google and the Indus Google Network to kickstart New York Pride 2023 with his first luxury pret collection AIKYA, on 2nd June at Āve – Soho NYC.

AIKYA, meaning unity, is a fusion of western silhouettes with Indian embroidery and techniques. Mayyur’s expert craft blends a vibrant mix of colors and emotions that represent the LGBTQIA+ community worldwide. The collection will be showcased at Āve – Soho, amidst a backdrop of historic photographs of queer people from India. This will be a moment of joy and pride for the South Asian community across the globe.

Creative Director Mayyur Girotra, says that the collection pushed him out of his comfort zone, stating, “I dedicate a love letter to my LGBTQIA+ family through the lens of my craft. From concept to execution, Google team have been strategic partners in building my vision”.

Leaders of Pride at Google and the Indus Google network Employee Resource Groups – collaborated with Mayyur Girotra to stage this landmark event by being a concept partner for runway representation that includes various gender identities and sexual orientations.

“We are excited to partner with Mayyur Girotra showcasing at Ave – W Broadway – NYC to celebrate Pride with the South Asian community to extend the conversation beyond conventional boundaries. We hope this show will leave the audience feeling a sense of connection to the collection,” says Shilpa Maniar Leader of the Indus Google Network in New York.

The designer’s signature style is playful and youthful, featuring custom-made prints and Kutch embroidery, inspired by Gujarat and Rajasthan, blended harmoniously with western silhouettes.

Mayyur Girotra has been worn by noted celebrities such as Sara Ali Khan, Sridevi, Deepika Padukone, Jacqueline Fernandaz, Shilpa Shetty, Alia Bhatt, Sonam Kapoor, Virat Kohli, Badshah and many more. Known for his versatile and unique bridal couture, Mayyur Girotra is a designer that has taken center stage in the world of fashion. The designer eloquently incorporates his deep Indian heritage with creative aesthetics that help cultivate outfits with his signature work including gota, mirror, tilla, and resham work.

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Fashion Lite Blogs

My handloom, my pride

Craft Odyssey

Each one stood out for its unique way of highlighting the richly textured, from all over India, anciently wise fabrics…reports Asian Lite News

Under the auspices of the Ministry of Textiles and DC, the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) organised a performance at the 36th International Surajkund Crafts Mela 2023 that celebrated India’s many handloom traditions (Handloom).

The gathering, “My Handloom, My Pride,” took place on February 16, 2023, and featured eight ensembles each from six designers. They included Samant Chauhan, Khanijo, Madhu Jain, Payal Jain, Kora by Anjali Kalia, Divyam Mehta, and Kora. Each one stood out for its unique way of highlighting the richly textured, from all over India, anciently wise fabrics.

Designer Samant Chauhan elevated the Bhagalpuri weave in Tussar silk, while Gaurav Khanijo, used Khadi woven in Bengal, with Kantha embroidery detailing on his modern cuts. Divyam Mehta worked with yarn crafted from agri waste, woven in Bengal. Interestingly, Madhu Jain paid homage to weaves from Orissa, channelling simplicity.

Payal Jain gave the ancient Pekhwa’ weaving technique which has been passed down generations of master weavers, a memorable representation with endearing shapes. On another note, Anjali Kalia’s hand block prints in red, black and olive, highlighted with gota, offset with thread, dori and sequins embroidery, made a play for a melange of hues.

M.D Sinha, IFS, Principal Secretary, Department of Tourism and Heritage, government of Haryana and Vice Chairman, Surajkund Mela Authority said, “India’s handloom sector is a symbol of our country’s rich and varied cultural heritage. At Surajkund International Crafts Mela we proudly present handlooms in the most creative and innovative manner, through our collaboration with FDCI. It’s our endeavour to make traditional handlooms into heirlooms.”

“The Ministry of Textiles has always supported such initiatives where handloom is the showstopper. The show celebrates the vivacity of weaves we have in India. Textiles weaving provides employment to more than 31 lakh households all over the country, and sustenance to more than 35 lakh weavers, mostly women. The show is a tribute to their resilience, skills and artisanal prowess. We are delighted to be showcasing at a venue like Surajkund, which is engulfed in traditional crafts, along with the Ministry of Textiles and DC (Handloom),” said Curator of the event, Sunil Sethi, FDCI.

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UAE News

‘Emirati woman remains nation’s pulsing heart, source of pride’

She noted that a woman, as the true partner to a man, has become a role model for the nation’s development and progress…reports Asian Lite News

The National Human Rights Institution (NHRI) affirmed that the Emirati woman remains the pulsing heart and a source of pride of the nation and commended the remarkable achievements made by the Emirati women.

It thanked to the unlimited support by the country’s wise leadership and special care paid by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union (GWU), Chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF), and “Mother of the Nation”.

NHRI said, “Allocating 28th August of each year as a national day for Emirati Women is a recognition of Emirati women’s giving and distinction, and the culmination of their successful career and effective contributions in all walks of life, to be a source of inspiration for women, women’s and family institutions in the world.”

The UAE celebrated “Emirati Women’s Day” on Sunday, which represents a national occasion to express pride in the outstanding achievements of the Emirati woman and her pivotal role as a key partner in the development of society and in shaping the future. The theme of this year’s Emirati Women’s Day is “Inspiring Reality … Sustainable Future”.

In statements on the occasion, members of the NHRI’s Board of Trustees affirmed the vital role women could play in upholding human rights. Since its establishment, the UAE worked to grant women their full human rights, empowering them to take up leadership positions. They described the Emirati woman’s achievement as a “source of pride for her and her nation”.

Fatima Al Kaabi, NHRI Deputy Chairperson and Board Member, expressed thanks and appreciation of female staff at the NHRI to Sheikha Fatima for her far-sighted vision and consistent support that enabled Emirati women to deliver remarkable achievements and contributions to the nation’s development journey.

She remarked that the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, was the key advocate and proponent of women and drew the early roadmap for their empowerment. The late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan carried the torch by issuing two crucial decisions regarding the establishment of the NHRI and the formation of its Board of Trustees, with women making up 50 percent of the Board. President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan stayed the course of his predecessors by paying special attention and close care to women’s development and empowerment.

She noted that a woman, as the true partner to a man, has become a role model for the nation’s development and progress.

Maryam Al Ahmadi, Chairperson of the International Relations and Non-Governmental Organisations Committee and NHRI Board Member, affirmed the NHRI’s commitment to promoting the bright image of Emirati women and their spectacular achievements and successes through the advancement of international efforts aimed at upholding and safeguarding human rights.

She stressed the need to develop women’s skills and capacities to create a sustainable future aligned with the Principles of the 50.

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