For the past 3 years, I have been associated with an NGO that works with
teenagers and young adults from lesser privileged backgrounds. We work towards
ensuring that they complete their 12th grade examinations and enroll
in a college to pursue their graduation degree – a first of its kind
achievement for their families. Along with academics, we talk about everything
possible - from career, life skills, dreams, their struggles, passions and hope.
During one such mentoring session, we were discussing about gender
awareness, sensitivity and inclusion. One of the students, with a genuine
keenness to understand this conversation better, asked me a simple question,
“Didi, how should I talk to someone who is gay? What should I say if I meet
that person in my college?”
I answered, “Talk to them the same way you would talk to every other
person, meet them the same way you would meet every new person in college!”
“Oh yes, Didi! I can do that.”
“It’s actually quite easy, isn’t it Didi?
“It is”, I said with a smile, looking at his relieved expression. “Be yourself,
just like they would be!”
“Unmasked” is another series of haikus on this conversation of gender diversity,
acceptance and inclusion.
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Popular at school
A talented musician
Why do I cry every night?
Intelligent, cool
A champion sportsperson
No one to talk with!
Should I open up
With my family and friends?
Will they love me still?
Male, female, other,
Gay or straight, I accept me
I want to unmask!
I am scared to reveal
My mask has been my shield
Would I be sneered at?
Kind and strong, I can
be a best friend and partner
I too am normal!
Intelligent and friendly
People can’t see these in me
Aren’t I just like you?
I accept myself
People may take some more time
And that’s ok too!
I want to live free
Accepted and included
Just want to be me!
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