“Who the Hell Are We to Uplift Transgenders?”: Peer Listening Programme-II Sparks Conversations on Gender Inclusion

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Patna/October 25/2024: The Department of English Patliputra University hosted the second edition of the Peer Listening Programme, focusing on the depiction of transgender lives through the lenses of humanities and social sciences. The event provided a platform for academics, activists and students to discuss the challenges, progress and evolving perceptions of the transgender community.

The session was anchored by Assistant Professor Dr. Rishikesh Ranjan and saw participation from prominent speakers across disciplines, encouraging open dialogue on gender diversity and societal inclusion.

Fostering Dialogue and Understanding

The event commenced with an opening address by Prof. Saloni Prasad, Head of the University P.G. Department of English. She emphasized the programme’s mission to foster peer support and dialogue on sensitive topics like transgender identity. Prof. Saloni also shared the story of a transgender child, emphasizing the prejudices they face and the courage required to assert their identity in a society that often marginalizes them.

Key Speaker Contributions

Prof. Sunita Lal, Head of the Department of History, introduced Reshma Prasad, a transgender activist. Reshma discussed the systemic exclusion and denial of basic rights that transgender individuals experience. She stressed the importance of education and empowerment in overcoming the backwardness that holds back the community’s progress.

Prof. Ashok Kumar, Associate Professor, highlighted the need for society to recognize and respect the dignity and identity of transgender people. He argued that inclusion is essential for building social harmony and warned against marginalizing the community.

Dr. Syed Afroz Ashrafi Of English Department expanded on the global nature of transgender acceptance, explaining that their challenges are not confined to any one region or culture. He urged the audience to see transgender issues as part of a global human rights movement.

Dr. Safdar Imam Quadri, Assistant Professor, provided a historical perspective, describing how feudal societies and Indian traditions acknowledged a third gender. However, he lamented that despite early recognition, transgender individuals continue to face discrimination and exclusion.

Dr. Ajay discussed the impact of Mughal-era policies on gender roles, demonstrating how history and culture shape present-day attitudes toward gender identity.

Dr. Khalid explored the intersectionality between gender, caste, class, and other social identities. He highlighted how these overlapping forms of oppression intensify the challenges faced by transgender individuals, urging for nuanced solutions.


Personal Reflections and Creative Expressions

The session also included personal reflections and creative expressions. Research Scholar Kumar Kundan Sinha presented his ideas on his ongoing research on transgender community. Ajay Kumar from Hindi Department shared personal experiences from his childhood, offering insights into the struggle for self-acceptance and the pressures of conforming to societal norms.

Research Scholar Nisha spoke about the role of social gatherings in creating solidarity and safe spaces for transgender people. She emphasized the need for reflection and silence to develop deeper empathy. Also she explained the textual Context of Transgenders in Vedic Literature as well as contemporary literature. 

Assistant Professor of Hindi Department Dr Manoj recited a poem on resilience, illustrating how strength often emerges through adversity. His poetic narrative urged the audience to listen actively and empathize with marginalized voices.


The session concluded with a powerful reflection by Dr. Sky Head Of English Department, COCAS on the importance of communication. He emphasized that while clarity in language is essential, empathy is the key to true understanding. He noted that without a mindset of acceptance, even perfect communication would fail to bring about meaningful change. He also pointed that grammatically Transgender are not included in English. 

A Call for Inclusion and Acceptance

The Peer Listening Programme-II was a resounding success, creating a space for critical conversations on the lives, challenges and hopes of transgender individuals. Participants left with a deeper understanding of how humanities and social sciences can reshape perceptions and foster a more inclusive society. The event ended with a renewed call for acceptance, inclusion, and compassion, encouraging everyone to contribute to building a world that celebrates diversity and equality.



Location: Patna, Bihar, India

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