A few months ago, the first transgender protection centre was inaugurated in Islamabad. Thereafter, it was announced that similar protection centres would be established countrywide along with schools for the transgender community. Although these efforts are laudable, there is a chance that such efforts can further isolate the transgender community.
In our society, people view transgender individuals in a negative light and regularly subject them to degradation and humiliation. Therefore, separate schools for trans individuals will further isolate them from the wider society paving the way for gender discrimination. Instead of creating separate spaces for the trans community, the individuals should be welcomed in the mainstream educational institutes, workplaces, etc. To change this discriminatory perspective, we need to start from our homes. We should teach our children to treat them with respect and good behaviour.
The government should instruct the teachers to inform the students about the basic rights of transgenders according to Islamic teachings and our constitution. This will bring some change to people’s mindsets. In addition, the gender section in employment forms and other paperwork should include the option of transgender as well. The government should reserve a quota for jobs for trans individuals in different employment positions and departments. So, that they can become independent and support their families. Most of the time, parents abandon transgender children because of the shame and stigma prevalent in our society. Therefore, there is a pressing need to implement steps to de-stigmatise the transgender community and welcome them into society.
Gulshan Mustafa
Karachi
