Understanding Gender

FAQ 1

Is it OK for a girl to feel that she is actually a boy trapped in a girl's body? Is it OK for a boy to feel that he is actually a girl trapped in a boy's body?

Answer

Yes, it is absolutely OK if you feel this way. Take some time to understand what you are feeling and be sure that it is not a disease.

FAQ 2

Is it OK for a boy to be attracted to a boy and for a girl to be attracted to a girl?

Answer

Yes, it is absolutely OK for a boy to be attracted to a boy and for a girl to be attracted to a girl. It is also OK if you are not feeling attracted to anyone. It is not a disease but a natural part of human behaviour.

Basic Definitions

Sex: Sex does mean “doing it” but it also means sexual organs like penis, vagina, breasts etc.
Bisexual: A boy or a girl who is attracted to both boys and girls.
Hijra: Some transgender persons join a particular religious and cultural community called the Hijra community. They have their own rites and rituals. The hijras are called by different names in different parts of the country. For example, they are called Aravani or Thirunangis in Tamil Nadu and Jogti Hijras in Maharashtra & Karnataka.This population prefers the term Kinnar in Chattisgarh and the term Aradhi in Maharashtra.

FAQ 3

Is it a crime to be L.G.B.T. or Queer?

Answer

No, it is not a crime to be L.G.B.T. or queer. The highest court in India, the Supreme Court of India has said that one does not become a criminal just because they are L.G.B. or T.

FAQ 4

What are the experiences of queer students in Indian Schools?

Answer

In schools, students who are perceived to be queer may be subjected to bullying - physical, emotional and sexual by other students or staff members. Find out more at the link here

Common Myths & Misconceptions

No, being queer is not a choice. The Indian Psychiatric Society has said that homosexuality is just another variant of human sexuality. The Supreme Court of India has said that one’s gender identity is as innate as whether one is left-handed or right- handed.

Famous Queer People

  • Vikram Seth, Author

  • Ellen DeGeneres, TV Show Host

  • Tim Cook, CEO of Apple Inc.

  • Ellen Page, Actress