Each year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on 21 September. The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire.
But achieving true peace entails much more than laying down arms. It requires the building of societies where all members feel that they can flourish. It involves creating a world in which people are treated equally, regardless of their race.
In Nepal, people belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community are known as "Tesro lingi" (third gender). In Nepal, and in many other places in the world, members of the LGBTQIA+ community face lack of respect and acceptance due to discrimination. Families often reject them. They often become homeless, face bullying, and many are barred from accessing education.
Image: LGBTQIA+ Pride Flag, Wikimedia Commons
Music: Yawar Wawki-Yarina, titled ‘wawa’ music from Peru, used with Consent.