First pride walk after Sec 377 repeal forms rainbow in city

The crowd was bigger than last year and they were no longer shouting to ‘take down section 377’. The community, instead, came out proudly to celebrate pride month.

Though this was the 11th edition in Chennai, it was the first after decriminalising homosexuality. More than 2,000 people came forward to actively participate and support the community.

Serena (19), a supporter from the UK, said she was proud to come all the way to India to support the LGBTQ community. She said, “It is nice to see such brave people come out without faking their sexual orientation.” Some of the appeals they made through the walk include the right to choose their partner, security from sexual harassment and prevention of suicide among youngsters after discovering theirsexuality.

L Yesuraja, who runs Magizhvan Foundation for LGBTQ community, said, “Suicides among children who discover their sexual orientation are very high. Due to pressure from parents as well as society, many fake their sexual orientation which leads to mental stress causing suicides. Everyone from our community should come out and feel freedom.”

B Ramkumar, who came along with his partner to the pride walk said, “We should have the right to choose our partners. We should also be given the right to marry who we love. Homosexuals should not be seen as aliens.”