Chennai Pride returns with pomp and colour – Times of India

Chennai News

Chennai: The concept of consent in intimate partner relationships is something many people are still not aware of. That’s why a workshop on consent is part of this year’s events for Pride Month celebrations.
“In our culture, there is not much understanding of consent. But everyone in a relationship need to be aware of the role consent plays and the importance of it,” says L Ramakrishnan from the NGO SAATHII. The workshop will be held on July 23.
While June is observed as Pride Month globally, this year, in Chennai, Pride will be celebrated with pomp, with a Pride March on June 26 and events being held from the end of May till July. “Due to the pandemic, most of the events were held online for the past two years. So we came up with a lot of events, all of which will be held offline and the community is excited about it,” says Ramakrishnan.
The inaugural event will be held on May 31. “It’s a private event where Bharatanatyam classes for transgender people will be inaugurated,” says Jaya, general manager of Sahodaran, a male sexual health project, adding that the initiative is being organised by Sahodaran and Sai Gramam Welfare Trust.
From a panel discussion on coming out to a suicide prevention workshop, multiple issues will be discussed. “The panel discussion, organised by Thozhi and Orinam, will be held on June 11,” says Ramakrishnan. On June 12, ‘Know Your Rights’, a legal session, will be conducted by SAATHII, Orinam, and a few other organisations.
‘Transform Health’, a sensitisation programme for healthcare providers will be held on June 14 and a sexual health awareness workshop will be conducted on July 9 by Sahodaran, SAATHII, Orinam and a few other organisations. “We will also be conducting sensitisation programmes for students and corporates so that they are aware about the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community,” says Jaya.
Cultural programmes will also be held to give community members a platform to showcase their talents. Tamil Nadu LGBTIQ movement, along with Sahodaran, will conduct ‘Seven Colours: The Chennai Rainbow Art Festival 2.0’ on June 18, while ‘Quilt’, Orinam’s literary meet, will be held on June 19.

Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/chennai-pride-returns-with-pomp-and-colour/articleshow/91674187.cms