Intersecting Identities: Confronting Hate Against Queer South Asians

Intersecting Identities: Confronting Hate Against Queer South Asians

Description

On June 12th, 2025, in honor of Pride Month, SAAPRI and SAAJCO hosted an essential conversation bridging our Know Your Rights and Unpacking Hate programs. This session focused on the unique challenges faced by queer South Asians in confronting hate and discrimination and explored the intersectionality of identity and the compounded effects of racism and homophobia within and outside the South Asian community. This was the fourth session in our Engaged Communities Series, a year-long initiative focused on empowering our communities with knowledge and tools to advocate for their rights.

Understanding Intersectionality in the Queer South Asian Experience

  • Learned about the concept of intersectionality and how it applies to the experiences of queer South Asians. Understood the layered challenges that arise from navigating multiple identities in a world often defined by rigid social categories.

Confronting Hate and Discrimination

  • Explored the specific forms of hate and discrimination faced by queer South Asians, both within their cultural communities and in broader society. Heard from experts and activists about the strategies being employed to address and combat these issues.

Building Supportive Communities

  • Discussed the importance of creating and sustaining supportive spaces for queer South Asians. Learn how community initiatives and advocacy can help foster acceptance, understanding, and resilience.

Panelists

Aruna Rao

Desi Rainbow Founder

Kareem Khubchandani

Tufts University, Associate Professor

Thank you to all those who attended our event! If you were not able to attend, you can access the recording below.

Event Recording