A storytelling session ‘Born This Way’ was organised by Bhopal Pride at Baithak - The Art House here on Sunday.
'Born this way' was an initiative to create a safe space for people to express their identities. The session kicked off with a discussion on sex, gender sexuality and the difference between them. People spoke about their understanding of the same and how it has impacted their lives. The aim was to build a support network and make friends who speak the same language and carry forward a stronger movement towards equality. People spoke about the social pressures and challenges about ‘coming out’, being accepted by parents and society, finding love and friendship.
It was heart warming sight to see people share anecdotes that have shaped their lives and made them who they actually are or they want to be. A general notion shared and expressed was how the ignorance and non-acceptance by the society that they have felt growing up or continue to feel suffocates them in some way or the other.
One of the participants Chandni said, “Defining humans is the worst thing we can do. let's not look at anyone with the lenses of gender and sexuality that the society has set for us. let's look at them how they are.”
Priyansh Soni, Co-organiser of the event said, “The event was a success because it achieved what it aimed for. People came out and shared their stories, they found solace, they made friends and above all they felt accepted.”