Unfair: Kol LGBTQIA+ community’s take on Trump’s ‘two-gender’ announcement
Times of India | 22 January 2025
12 Kolkata: The LGBTQIA+ community in Kolkata has expressed anguish and sadness at president Donald Trump's announcement that only two genders — male and female — will be officially recognised by the United States govt. The announcement has stirred conversations around gender identity in Kolkata.
Members of the LGBTQIA+ community feel that the cultural and social consequences of such a declaration could be far-reaching.
Transgender and non-binary community members in Kolkata condemned the announcement as a blatant disregard for the rights and recognition of gender-diverse individuals. Ranjita Sinha, a transgender rights activist, said the announcement by President Trump negatively affects numerous individuals who do not conform to traditional gender classifications.
"The stance poses serious concerns for non-binary individuals and those who identify beyond conventional gender categories across the globe. The announcement also has the potential to reverse years of advancement in acknowledging and accepting gender diversity. It also raises concerns over the well-being and fundamental rights of already disadvantaged communities. In 2025, when India is making strides towards acceptance, it is heartbreaking to see such regressive policies being put forward in the US," Sinha said.
The announcement Tru-mp made during his inaugural address said: "As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States govt that there are only two genders, male and female."
"My initial reaction was one of helplessness, hopelessness, and insecurity. The announcement is not only unfair but deeply offensive, violating basic human rights no authority should infringe upon. But we will rise above this hate. The fight for recognition, dignity, and respect is a global one, and we are in it together," said Sovik Ghosh, a queer individual who is working with single-use plastic pollution with Kolkata Pride.
For many in Kolkata's LG-BTQIA+ community, this decision is a direct challenge to the progress made in the recognition and rights of gender minorities. "This announcement is an attack on our identities irrespective of our nationalities," said Samiran Gh-osh, a transperson in Garia.
"The announcement is nullifying the identities established for decades. Transgender persons living in the USA who have secured jobs and certain lifestyles, what will be their fate? To hear a world leader, especially from a country that has such global influence, outright deny our existence is devastating," said Sintu Bagui, secretary, Kolkata Anandam for Equality and Justice.