Denuka Chathuranga, our fellow from Sri Lanka, participated in a panel discussion following a screening event organised by TAW organisers, touching heavily on the intersections between Art and Trans Activism.
The film screening featured a Malaysian trans documentary, Queer as Punk, which is about a punk band fronted by a trans man, and their efforts carving out spaces in a country with predominantly conservative, traditional and religious extremist views.
The film highlights the importance of art in activism, and the significance of centering trans and queer joy amidst efforts to fight for our own rights.
Highlights of the Statement:
During the panel after the screening, Denuka highlighted the lack, the need, and the importance of joy in his activism and the role of Art that contributes to Trans Joy, and spoke about the resilience of trans activists in Sri Lanka, who consistently and unwaveringly have to fight for equality and the right to exist.
He also talks about the urgent need for legal gender recognition and access to gender-affirming healthcare for trans and gender-diverse people in Sri Lanka and all countries within the Asia Pacific.
Throughout the week, Denuka also met with ambassadors, UNAIDS, WHO, GFATM, and other key stakeholders, advocating for stronger global commitments to protect human rights.
APTN is proud to support Denuka’s Journey in Geneva, and collaborate with the TAW organising partners, GATE, ILGA World, EATHAN, RFSL and TGEU, to highlight the power of art in activism, and how it can be used to talk about important issues, while centering the experiences and lives of actual trans people.
“I had the privilege of joining the 59th Session of the UN Human Rights Council and Trans Advocacy Week in Geneva, a powerful opportunity to bring lived realities from Sri Lanka to the global stage.
Denuka Chathuranga
Speaking on the panel after the Queer as Punk screening was an inspiring opportunity to reflect on the strength and creativity of queer communities. The film’s creators showed that every sensitivity matters, often expressed with sharp wit and humor. It was a great example of how art and advocacy can come together to spark meaningful change.
My heartfelt thanks to APTN and TAW organisers for connecting me to this opportunity to remind me that lasting change happens when policies are shaped by real experiences and when every voice is valued at the decision making table.”