Q1 – Why Trans Rights = Human Rights?
I believe Human rights are about protecting human beings from any form of discrimination and violation. We might have different beliefs, political views, cultures and customs, but one thing I’m sure of: everyone, who does no harm to others, should be treated with love and dignity. All human beings are different in their diversities but equal in their rights, including trans people
Andreo
“Trans folks should be treated with dignity, fairness, and basic human rights. Discrimination against trans individuals, including denial of employment, housing, healthcare, and legal recognition, not only violates basic rights but also perpetuates systemic injustices. By ensuring that trans people are protected from discrimination, we uphold the principle of equality for all and work towards creating a more just and inclusive society.”
Douglas
Q2 – Why is UN Trans Advocacy Week necessary?
“It is shocking to realize that the majority of UN Member States don’t have legal gender recognition, meaning that trans people cannot access basic life needs such as access to healthcare, shelter and employment, just because they don’t fit into societal gender norms. United Nations Trans Advocacy Week is an opportunity to make sure all trans experiences are heard and to make sure trans people are respected in their diversity and equal in their rights at the highest level possible.”
Andreo
The inclusion of trans, gender diverse, and queer individuals in spaces of power and policy-making during Trans Advocacy Week (TAW) demonstrated the importance and need of TAW. It promotes representation, amplifies our voices, and contributes to more informed and inclusive decision-making processes. It is a significant step towards dismantling the historical marginalization and erasure of our communities and a crucial aspect of promoting social justice and equality.
Douglas
Q3 – What was your highlight of the week?
Most people might think that people working at UN level are too serious and diplomatic. They are not wrong, they are serious and diplomatic, but they are also hard-working, compassionate and emotional about trans rights. During two of the sessions, where the UN Independent Expert was being praised for his work on LGBTIQ+ rights and when the room looked at us, Trans Activists in UN spaces, and recognized our work and struggles, some tears dropped from my eyes. It was wonderful to see that they see us too and they are fighting for us too. I am hopeful that dialogues and collaborative work with trans communities will be enforced at UN level.
Andreo
Douglas
My Wow Moment during the Trans Advocacy Week: Secretary Symmy and Ambassador Alba, two travestis*, representing Brazil and Argentina at the United Nations. Witnessing their representation brings hope and inspires change for one of Latin America’s most marginalized populations. I got teary eyed seeing travestis occupy positions of representation and influence at the international level, not only because it validates their experiences and struggles but also provides hope and inspiration everyone within our community.
*travesti can be defined as a Latin American term used by some transgender people to refer to their gender identity