The LGBT community represents a significant proportion of populations across this 21st-century South and Southeast Asia. Unfortunately, they are grossly misunderstood and discriminated, and are subjected to regular humiliation, rude behavior, social prejudices and even life-threatening physical attacks leading to death and injury.
Our society needs to show empathy for the pain and suffering such community members go through on a daily basis and provide a path of social justice and equal opportunity in various aspects of life.
In addition, LGBT members are grossly misrepresented and/or underrepresented in most parliamentary democracies across South and Southeast Asia. Although some of their rights have been protected through constitution and the law, still much needs to be done to accommodate them more inclusively and respectfully in our society. They are no less human than any other individual member of our society and have the right to live a life of respect and dignity.
Sensitization and awareness regarding LGBT community members are the first steps to bridge the gap in accepting them as equal and respected members of our Asian society and community life.
SAIKAT KUMAR BASU, Apt 6-409, 43 Street South, Lethbridge AB Canada T1J 4B3