Sri Lanka's first transgender candidate hopes to break political, social barriers.

 


Being the first openly transgender person to compete for a parliament election  in Sri Lanka, Chanu Nimesha's candidature in the November 2024 parliamentary elections was  historic. Her story demonstrates both individual fight and a larger struggle against Sri Lankan cultural norms surrounding gender identity and LGBTQ+ rights.



Nimesha, who was born in Galle, Southern Province, endured a lot of personal struggles, such as losing her father in the political movement of 1989 and being cut off from her family because of her gender identification. She moved to Colombo and worked as a writer, actress, and quantity surveyor, among other occupations. She became an outspoken supporter of the LGBTQ+ community because of her lifelong interest in politics and dedication to social justice. Notably, she was instrumental in bringing LGBTQ+ problems into the larger campaign for systemic change by planning the first LGBTQ+ Pride March during the 2022 Aragalaya protests at Galle Face.

Political Activities

 Nimesha made a daring move to increase LGBTQ+ participation in politics when he decided to run for office in the 2024 general elections under the Socialist Party of Sri Lanka.  Her campaign addressed social justice concerns with the goal of promoting inclusivity and challenging long-standing social practices.


Sri Lankan LGBTQ+ Rights 

 LGBTQ+ people have traditionally faced discrimination from Sri Lanka's legal system.  Sections 365 and 365A of the Penal Code make consenting to same-sex sexual conduct illegal and carry a maximum sentence of ten years in jail.  Progressive developments have occurred in spite of these laws.  

  • Legal Recognition: After receiving medical approval, transgender people are now able to legally change their gender thanks to the government's 2016 introduction of Gender Recognition Certificates. 
  • Judicial Position: A move towards decriminalization was indicated in 2017 when the Supreme Court declared Sections 365 and 365A invalid. 
  •  Advocacy and Support: Since its founding in 2004, groups like Equal Ground have played a significant role in promoting LGBTQ+ rights, offering assistance, and planning community-building events like Colombo Pride.

Social Perceptions and Difficulties  

In Sri Lanka, there is still little social acceptance of LGBTQ+ people, notwithstanding legal improvements.  There are still cases of violence, stigma, and prejudice, which are frequently caused by conservative cultural and religious views.  Opposition to activists and organisations persists, underscoring the necessity of continuous efforts to change public opinion and advance inclusivity.

An important turning point in the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights in Sri Lanka has been reached with Chanu Nimesha's candidature. Even if legal changes have created a foundation for more acceptance, much more has to be done to change public perceptions and guarantee that everyone, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, has the same rights and protections.







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