Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Hijras take to Dhaka catwalk as part of unique awareness campaign


via bdnnews24.com, by Fahmida Wadud Chaity

Dhaka, Aug 18 (bdnews24.com)—The audience at a show titled "Agony and Ecstasy," at the National Museum on Tuesday, were treated to a unique event as Hijras took to the catwalk in a fashion show as part of the programme's aim to to sensitise the larger community on transgender issues.

The programme, also aiming to create awareness about the risks of HIV/AIDS and drug-use, was organised by the Bandhu Social Welfare Society, which works for the wellbeing of the socially excluded "males and their partners" through the provision of sexual health services, support of their human rights and alternate livelihoods.

Shale Ahmed, executive director of BSWS told bdnews24.com, "They are regularly stigmatised in many ways, which harm their self esteem. They tend to think they are useless. They feel isolated and excluded."

"This particular programme is a part of our protest against the stigma. It is an effort to make the community feel empowered."

Read the rest.

No comments:

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...