Courts cannot enforce inclusivity, it has to begin with us

Representation Pic

Two days later, the Supreme Court same-sex marriage verdict is still top of mind, especially for the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer (LGBTQ) community, which is left bitter and battle weary. The top court has refused to grant recognition to same-sex marriages, which would have been a massive Neil Armstrong moment here, a great leap for queerkind.

Yet, that is not to be, with some activists, allies, gay persons stating that this does not mean the end of the road, but taking a step back and preparing for other battles. Others said patience, planning and then taking the fight to Parliament should be the next step.

Also read: Mumbai's air gets worse than Delhi: Sprinklers, barriers and anti-smog guns to be made mandatory

Whatever the next front, what do we, as a people do? We can start by not looking at any court at all, but within ourselves to dial back any discrimination we practise towards the community. Hold back those hurtful jokes and do not laugh and scoff even if it is just for some light fun. Learn about the community and help them as much as possible into the mainstream. This means standing up to the homophobic bully. Calling out stereotypes in speech and cinema. Advocating for equality with the power you have which may be limited but can make a considerable influence on lives. Stop ‘othering' the community.

Speak up and support if you witness torture and violence in your circle or even homes. Stop somebody forcing a gay person to go for ‘conversion therapy'. Spread awareness that this is illegal and should not be practised.

Give somebody the gentle courage to come out, so that they can step out of the claustrophobic closet. Educate, make aware, inform and empathise. We need Courts and Parliaments to bring about big changes. Yet, the small ones, those on the ground and ones that matter to, are in our hands. Let people take their own step forward to equality.