Removal of Section 377 was a great achievement for the queer community but the battle does not stop there. Even after years of struggle, the government of India refuses to recognize same-sex marriages. Why should these many Indians be excluded from their choice to marry? Simply because they do not identify with the government of India’s idea of what a marriage should be and between whom.

In a society bound by a rigid set of social and cultural norms that dictate the terms and conditions of education, career and marriage, the lack of rights and support for  LGBT+ people can prove to be a big blow to their mental and physical health. While the Constitution prohibits discrimination, that injunction only applies to the government and its instrumentalities. LGBTQ people continue to face discrimination in their personal lives, in the workplace and the public sphere, and in their access to critical health care. Even the courts have not yet woken to the problems which affect the lives of the queer community.

Every person should be entitled to the right to marriage. Same-sex marriage is now legal in 31 countries. Join me in my fight so we can make sure that India also starts recognizing same sex marriages. Be a part of the change.

Awaiting your support,
Maria