Guwahati, March 22nd, 2024.
The inaugural Northeast Media Conclave on LGBTQ+ Lives held today at The Lily Hotel in
Guwahati was a resounding success, bringing together a diverse array of media voices and
perspectives to advocate for greater inclusivity and representation in media narratives from
north-eastern states.
The day-long event, organized by The Humsafar Trust, saw engaging panel discussions
featuring prominent journalists, activists, and community members from across the region.
Mr. Suhail Abbasi, Co-founder and Chairperson of The Humsafar Trust opened the conclave
with the journey of queer movement and how engagement with media have helped in
amplifying the voices of the community. These discussions delved into pressing issues
surrounding LGBTQ+ lives in the region, sparking insightful conversations and highlighting
the need for greater visibility and understanding. Issues were raised on how the community
representation in media needed more empathetic lens and how there were enough positive
stories that needed to be covered. Notable media houses included The Assam Tribune,
Press Trust of India, Prag News, Guwahati Plus, The Indian Express, Sikkim Chronicles,
Capital News Arunachal, Prag News, 92.7 Big FM, CNN News 18, News10 Banga, Arunachal
Express. A tete-a-tete with Dr. Akshata Narain, Group President AM Television Pvt Ltd on
how media houses can strengthen visibility for the community voices and be inclusive and
sensitive.
This was complimented further by a conversation with community representatives from
Xomonnoy, AFABulous NE, Anaajoree, Rainbow Hills Welfare Association and Akam
Foundation on how the community wants to be written/talked about! Several insights were
shared where communities wanted greater visibility beyond pride coverage and how
sensitization at all levels of the media ladder and the larger community plays a greater role
in changing perspectives and brings inclusion.
Indrani Chakrabarty, a rainbow parent, and advocate, shared her journey of acceptance,
underscoring the ongoing endeavor to foster understanding within families. Director of
Research at The Humsafar Trust, Ms. Alpana Dange led a captivating session on ‘Reporting
on LGBTQ+ Issues – Best Practices on Inclusive Reporting’. In the realm of media, reporting
on LGBTQ+ issues demand a nuanced approach that balances sensitivity, inclusivity, and
accuracy. Media outlets often face the imperative to adhere to best practices in inclusive
reporting while navigating potential pitfalls. From language choices to representation,
understanding the diverse spectrum of LGBTQ+ experiences are paramount. This
necessitates a commitmentto fostering empathy, amplifying authentic voices, and avoiding
stereotypes or misrepresentations.
The attendees had the opportunity to network with media professionals and fellow LGBTQ+
advocates, fostering connections and collaborations aimed at driving positive change.
“We are thrilled with the overwhelming response to the Northeast Media Conclave on
LGBTQ+ Lives,” said Pinki Singha, Program Officer, The Humsafar Trust. “The passion and
dedication of our participants reaffirm our commitment to promoting diversity, equality, and
inclusion in media narratives.”
The highlight of the day was each side wanting to collaborate to build better narratives for a
wave of change that the communities required.
For more information aboutthe Northeast MediaConclave on LGBTQ+ Lives, please contact
Pinki Singha (9085865405) pinki@humsafar.org
