“You will often feel as if you don’t fit, but it has never been your destiny to fit in. You were born to stand out.” — Melene Rossouw
Although the above quote refers to the female gender, it is germane to all marginalized genders in our society. Gender is who an individual is and wants to be identified as in this world. Identification by self is a mental process as crucial as biological or physiological expression. The world strongly driven by norms and virtuosity has remained blinded to the reality. Individuals with gender variances have prevailed in our societies since eons. Some have held powerful and key positions in the courts. Indian mythology too has conferred an empowered status to other genders. For instance, Shikhandi an androgynous individual is instrumental in destroying the mighty Bhishma. Stories of gods and demi gods in Greek mythology show that other genders are not newly discovered facts. Literature is flooded with references to other genders that have lived with dignity and pride. It is only time we provide them social security, financial stability and social inclusivity.
We dedicate this issue of Tajigen who take pride in the individuals they are by virtue of their deeds and contribution to society over the gender they claim to be.
Facebook announces that it will have many more options for individuals to identify their gender. A step although seems empowering raises a rather paradoxical situation. Why do we need to announce our gender?
Mrs. Nirupama Prakash
HOD
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