Transforming Minds:  Transformative art for translating human rights of the non-binary community in Bangladesh

In recent years, several non-binary activists in Bangladesh have been killed and forced to flee for their safety and security while advocating for their rights. Recently, another outburst from fundamentalist groups and students against the community has triggered a new wave of threats to the community and its allies. 

It is widely observed that ignorance about the non-binary community is one of the root causes of discrimination. However, there is a possibility to reverse the scenario with proper reciprocal communication. This project aims to open up a conversation about the personal truth of non-binary people and share their stories and messages. Throughout history, we have witnessed the emergence of various art forms that have benefited society. These art forms are also diversified, from simple narration to paintings, lyrics, drama, sculpture, and many more. This has created a context for artistic expression of human rights, which will be a tool to provoke the natural love of humanity to overthrow hatred and discrimination.

By engaging various artists, activists, and students through art camps, this work will explore contemporary and emerging art forms to highlight the lived experiences of the non-binary community in Bangladesh and challenge the stereotypes associated with it.

Team Bio:

We are a group of human rights, feminist, and art activists in Bangladesh with diversified experience and expertise. At least more than two decades of working experience enrich the group with a unique outlook on contemporary issues. Brought together by our passion to communicate and address human rights violations in our society, our group harnesses collective capacity and effort to shed light on the human rights status of the non-binary community in Bangladesh.

Follow Transformative Arts for Human Rights and Bangladesh Womxn’s Collective for updates throughout the project.